The Menstrual Pain Guide

Here we sort out the most common questions about menstrual cramps and share with us tips that can help you when menstrual cramps strike.

Why do you get menstrual cramps?

You as a menstruating person can probably recognize yourself in the aching or cramping pain that usually manifests itself just before or at the beginning of menstruation. If not – lucky you. Menstrual cramps occur in connection with the uterus contracting to be able to expel the mucous membrane. The uterus is a muscle and can, just like other muscles, suffer from exercise pain when it works.

Ovulation cramps

Ovulation involves a mature egg being released from the ovary and transported to the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized. When no fertilization occurs, the lining of the uterus is shed and your period begins. Ovulation can cause a light pain in the lower stomach, but some women don’t  experience any pain at all.

Tips for menstrual cramps

Exercise

It might feel contradictory to exercise when you’re in pain and you would prefer to curl up in bed, but light exercise can help increase blood flow in the body and soothe the cramping.

Suggested activities:

• Yoga
• Walking
• Swimming

Adapt your female hygiene product

Find a female hygiene product, or a combination of products, that suits you and your needs. A sanitary pad can be comfortable if your body feels tense or sore, while a tampon or menstrual cup can be  practical and easy. Try out various products to find the ones that work for you and enable you to feel as comfortable as possible during your period.

Sleep

There is a lot going on in your body during your period, so it is perhaps not strange that you may feel more tired than usual. Make sure you get enough sleep so your body has a chance to recover.

Fluid

You may feel bloated and suffer from fluid retention during your period, therefore  you can consider drinking more water or other beverages. This may cause you to pee more regularly and help the fluid balance in the body.

Diet

Five meals a day and a varied diet help your body to maintain an even energy level. Fruit and vegetables also contain water that can help to maintain the fluid balance.

Heat

Heat helps the body to relax and can feel nice on the area that hurts. A wheat bag is a good option if you want to focus the heat on a particular area, while an electric blanket helps the entire body to relax.

Track your mesntrual cycle

To track your menstrual cycle and take notes can help you prepare for your period. When is the pain most severe and how long does it take for the cramping to subside? How do you feel in general before, during and after your period? Getting to know your period also means getting to know yourself.