No one enjoys being in pain, but when that time of the month comes around, many women suffer from severe cramps, sometimes for several days. This can make for a long menstrual cycle. Popping the Midol, Aleve or Advil is not always the only solution. There are also plenty of natural ways to relieve the pain of monthly cramps.  One of the most important things you can do if painful cramps are an issue for you is drink more water.  Even though water does not relieve cramping, staying hydrated can reduce bloating in the abdomen.  Without the added pressure against your uterus, the menstrual cramps will be less intense.  But keeping hydrated isn’t the only tip for staying above the pain.

Here are some of the best ways to relieve menstrual period cramps:

·       Heating Pad

·       Exercise

·       Massage

·       Hazelnuts

·       Chamomile Tea

·       Cut out saturated fat and dairy

·       Cut out caffeine

Herbal remedies like:

o   cramp bark

o   raspberry leaf

o   angelica

o   chaste berry

o   black cohosh

There are two causes for these types of cramps, one being chemical the other being functional. What actually happens is the uterine muscles contract due to stimulation by a chemical series called prostaglandins. There are three types of chemicals, PgE1, 2 and 3. PgE2 is the chemical that causes uterine contractions and pain. The other two chemicals are natural painkillers. From a functional standpoint, cramps can derive from one of the following conditions: endometriosis, fibroids, infections, IUD, ovarian cysts, narrow cervix, or a retroverted uterus. Some women also experience elevated PgE2 levels.

Almost 50% of women experience naturally occurring painful periods, but there is also a disorder called dysmenorrhea which is used to describe severely painful menstruation and menstrual cramps. Women with dysmenorrhea will experience severe pain and cramping in the abdomen and pelvic area, as well as the lower back and legs. Pain can be both intense and dull and come and go. Women also struggle with headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea and sometimes vomiting. Symptoms can vary from period to period. Women who have dysmenorrhea experience long-lasting menstrual cramping, bleeding and pain. Most women experience some pain either in the pelvic area or lower back during their period but those who get more severe symptoms struggle with everyday