Wondering how to make periods less painful?
If you experience uncomfortable symptoms leading up to and during your period, you may be wondering how to make periods less painful. Common symptoms include menstrual cramps (also known as dysmenorrhea), bloating, back pain, breast pain, joint pain, fatigue, headaches… and the list goes on. There are many possible solutions for less painful periods, which we’ll explore in this article.
It can also be wise to make an appointment with a qualified gynecologist to discuss how to make periods less painful. Sometimes the cause of painful periods can be a serious condition like endometriosis (a disorder in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside the uterus). And a gynecologist can prescribe birth control that can help to alleviate period pain (plus more potential benefits).
A gynecologist can determine if you are experiencing PMS or something more serious, and help you feel better faster. If you’re in South Florida, make an appointment at Lona Sasser Obstetrics and Gynecology. You can easily book online with any of our three wonderful doctors – all of whom are rated an average of five out of five stars on ZocDoc! Learn about our doctors here.
How to Make Periods Less Painful Tip #1: Over-the-Counter Medication
For the quickest relief from menstrual cramps, many people turn to a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs lower production of the substances that cause menstrual cramps, and also decrease inflammation and pain. However, NSAIDs aren’t for everyone. They can irritate the digestive tract, and can be dangerous for those with bleeding or kidney issues. Make an appointment with a gynecologist to discuss whether NSAIDs are a good choice for you to manage period pain.
How to Make Periods Less Painful Tip #2: Warm Up
Use a hot water bottle or heating pad over your lower abdomen to ease menstrual cramps. Studies have shown that heat, whether from a hot water bottle or heating pad, can be as effective as ibuprofen in making periods less painful. In combination with ibuprofen, you may experience the most complete relief.
Some people find that a warm bath makes them feel better. And exercise, which warms the whole body, can relieve pain by releasing feel-good endorphins that chase away pain and discomfort. If you feel too fatigued to exercise much, try gentle yoga or stretching, with a focus on lengthening through the abdominal region.
How to Make Periods Less Painful Tip #3: Prescription Medication
Birth control pills have been shown to relieve menstrual cramps. Both low- and medium-dose estrogen contraceptives can be helpful in this way. Birth control pills can also make periods lighter and shorter, and you can even skip your period completely with some types of the pill! Birth control pills can come with side effects, however, and increase the risk of blood clots. Make an appointment with a gynecologist to discuss how the pill might help you have easier periods, as well as other options for birth control and family planning. All of our doctors are taking new patients, and are ready and able to help you feel your best!
Sources for This Article:
10 Ways to Relieve Period Cramps – Everyday Health