There can be a lot of pain in the stomach and lower abdomen during periods. Though not uncommon, this menstrual problem can cause a lot of discomfort during menstruation. This pain often manifests itself in the form of menstrual cramps, nausea, and simple pain. This pain is caused because the uterus needs to shed off the blood that lines its walls. The contractions made by the uterus in order to shed off this excess blood cause the pain and the cramps that women often feel.
There are often other reasons for this pain, some of which include constipation, gas, or water retention in the lower abdomen. If you are sensitive to certain foods, you may experience stomach upsets and pain. Though this pain usually only happens once every month for a couple of days, there are home remedies that can alleviate the pain. The best way to relieve yourself is to heat the area which is in pain. You may try a hot bath or shower or simply give yourself a hot compress through a hot water bottle.
Though it seems unnatural, doing some light exercises during your periods can help relieve the pain. If the pain is severe, make sure you do only light exercises. Simply stretch your body for a few minutes before taking a small walk around the block. This will help relieve cramps. The exercise will also help release endorphins which are the body's natural pain killers and mood enhancers. Exercise will also help ease the muscle tension and increase blood flow.
Drinking hot herbal teas brewed from chamomile, thyme, or lavender can help reduce the pain. These help relax both your mind and body and also relieve pent up tension. You should also try and avoid eating foods that are high in sodium while you are having your periods. Sodium and carbonated drinks cause the body to retain fluids and bloat. This bloating usually causes the pain and cramps. If you are especially sensitive to certain foods, please avoid them.
Over the counter medications to relieve pain can be used to ease the pain temporarily. Ibuprofen or Tylenol can help ease the pain and the cramps. However, ask your doctor before you take any medications so that you do not complicate any existing condition. If none of these remedies are able to help you, it is best to get yourself checked for endometriosis. Endometriosis is a serious problem in which the lining of the uterus begins to expand to the rest of the body. This pain is very severe and could occur even when you are not having your periods. It is therefore important that you get yourself diagnosed.
answered by G M