5 ways to ease period pains

Period pains/menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus which happens at least every month when a lady observes her periodic flow.

What happens during each menstrual period is if there is no sperm to fertilize eggs the uterus contracts to expel its lining hence the blood flow (menses) that is experienced.

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Menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus

 (Health)

Although ladies have varying symptoms for the time of the month, yet a lot of ladies experience painful cramps that makes that time of the month very uncomfortable (some ladies fall 'sick') and some other sort of pain which can be put under control (it's important to find out to know it's not a sign of an serious underlying health issue).

While it helps a great deal to improve one's lifestyle, eat right (including staying off junk food) some seemingly 'simple' ways help to ease the pain.

1. Not sitting idle

Exercising is a great way to reduce menstrual cramps. Get active during your period and your body will react accordingly. You don't have to go to the gym or do anything over the top just keep the body and the whole system moving, do not stay idle or lazy! This helps a great deal.

2. Massage

Massaging the stomach at interval helps to ease period cramps. Give the area a good old rub to help ease the bloating effect the period brings with it.

3. Apply heat

Applying pressure with heat helps relieve pain and discomfort caused by menstrual flow. Get out clean towels in hot water (hot enough but bearable and not scalding) then massage the stomach area to ease flow and consequently reduce period pains.

4. Improve diet during this time

Load up on 'good fats' including coconut oil, whole milk, cream and butter as well as magnesium and calcium to reduce muscle soreness. Eat fatty fish for Omega 3 fatty acid to help with bloating and cramps, also include cod liver oil to help the heart/organs in the body.

Studies show that getting up to 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day can help lessen menstrual symptoms.

5. Warm Baths

Taking a warm bath helps ease pains and makes blood flow unhindered which helps reduce cramps almost immediately giving relief at intervals.