In commemoration of International Women's Day that was celebrated on 8th March 2018, this month's journals will primarily focus on women's health. This week, we will specifically explain on how to deal with the monthly ordeal every woman have to through in some point of their lives. Below, we have listed 5 ways you can ease the pain and cramps you have to bear when it is that time of the month:
1. Do some light exercise
We know the pain you bear during period can prevent you from moving too much; and while this may sound a little contradictory, exercise may actually help to keep menstrual cramps at bay. Brisk walking, or any type of physical activity like Yoga, can help reduce the severity and duration of cramps. When you're doing any type of aerobic exercise, your body is pumping more blood; this helps to release endorphins and reduce your cramps. Exercising three to four times a week is good for the overall health of your body, but it is especially important if you're prone to painful menstrual cramps.
2. Apply heat on the pain area
One of the easiest and most effective treatments for menstrual cramps can be found through a simple heat therapy. Heat helps to relax the contracting muscles in your uterus, which is the cause for your pain. Taking a regular plastic or glass bottle with hot water and applying it to your abdomen is an alternative when you don't have access to a heating pad. Study shows that continuous low-level heat therapy from a heating pad, heating pack or hot water bottle was shown to be more effective paired with a dose of painkiller than taking painkillers alone.
3. Consume ginger
Research has shown that ginger has been effective in relieving inflammation and pain, and it can help alleviate the pain associated with menstrual cramps. Taking ginger tea two to three times a day while you are experiencing menstrual cramps can be helpful. However, if you are always on the go and prefer practicality, our Relief Sari line endorses Jahe Merah as a natural supplement you can take to ease your menstrual pain.
Although ginger is generally considered safe, it does have a few side effect. Avoid ginger if you have a bleeding disorder, are taking blood-thinning drugs, or if you have peptic ulcers, as it might worsen them. It is always best to consult to your doctor before taking any natural supplements if you have any health issues that might interfere with the effectiveness of the supplement itself.
4. Serve yourself some healthy, nutritious food
Like any other health tips we've shared, it couldn't be stressed enough how important the role of healthy food is for your well being, including during menstruation. If you're prone to have cramps during your period, it's for your own good to stay away from fried, fatty foods like doughnuts, French fries and potato chips and consume more of whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and vegetables like spinach, broccoli and carrots.
5. Have a good night's sleep
As we all know, getting enough sleep is crucial to one’s health. But, even moreso when you're having your period. Interruptions in your regular sleep rhythms can interfere with your regular cycle, disrupt your hormones and result in even more irritability, fatigue, and stomach cramping. To conclude, relaxation in general can play a role in pain relief.
To wrap things up: it's completely normal to experience pain during your period, but if symptoms persist outside of menstruation, inform your doctor as you could probably have an underlying medical condition. It's important to seek medical care for severe symptoms unrelieved by these and other remedies if they are interfering with your daily activities. Inform your health-care provider about all forms of treatment you are using, including herbs and supplements.
