What's the best way to rid menstrual symptoms? (educated answers only, please)?

Question

During the first day of my menstrual period I experience severe cramps in my abdomen that range from a constant dull ache to intense sharp pains. I also have a frequent feeling of nausea when I get up. It is worse during the morning and evening hours which I attribute to being less active during these times. Exercise works to relieve cramps but only really succeeds in changing the position of the pain to a more livable lower back ache. I've tried Midol, Tylonel, and Ibuprofin but nothing works this first day. Terrible cramps really only effect me the first day of the cycle and then the remainder of the week Midol will take care of anything.

I aslo notice heightened senses during this time. Smell, taste, touch, all seem magnified to me during the beginning of my period. (Does that happen to anyone else?)

Is there anything else I can do besides exercise and heating pads that can help me. I've heard changing diets certian ways can prevent cramping. Anyone know anything about this?

Answer 1

As for diet, one study revealed that "a low-fat, vegetarian diet lessens the severity of menstrual cramping...in a crossover study, 33 women (mean age 36) with a history of moderate to severe abdominal pain during menstruation were randomly assigned to a low-fat vegetarian diet (10% of calories from fat) or to a placebo supplement during two complete menstrual cycles.

Eating the low-fat, high-fiber vegetarian diet was associated with a significant reduction in the duration and intensity of menstrual pain, but not with a change in menstrual flow Women were significantly more likely to lose weight and lower their BMI while on the diet than during the placebo phase. Women also reported significantly higher energy levels during the diet phase of the study (ref: Obstet. Gynecol. 95[2]:245-50, 2000 / Family Pratice News, May 1, 2000).

The diet was associated with significantly higher serum levels of sex-hormone-binding globulin and lower serum estrogen levels. Bile contains estrogen conjugates and a diet high in plant fiber increases the amount of estrogen excreted in feces. The resulting decline in estrogen coupled with increased sex-hormone-binding globulin may reduce the endometrial proliferation of prostaglandin-producing tissues and thus lessen menstrual pain."

Generally speaking, treatment options are based on the underlying cause of the pain (primary or "normal cramping" vs. secondary dysmenorrhea from Endometriosis or other disease/disorder) and range from medical to alternative therapies. Commonly, Non-Steroidal Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen may be recommended to help with cramping, and more recently, COX-2 inhibitors have also been approved for treatment of dysmenorrhea. Prescription painkillers may also be recommended where appropriate. Combination (ethynylestradiol and progestin) oral contraceptives can also help reduce prostaglandin production, thereby alleviating the cramps. Heating pads can also offer temporary resolve of the pain. Avoidance of smoking (which has been shown increase cramps) and reduced intake or total avoidance of salt, sugar, high fat and dairy products, alcohol and caffeine can also afford relief, as can increasing the intake of fiber, calcium and complex carbohydrates. Recent studies also indicate that Vitamin B6 complex, calcium and magnesium supplements, and Omega III fatty acids (fish oil supplements) also may help relieve cramping. Pelvic massage, exercise (which releases endorphins, the body’s own natural painkillers), Yoga (the cat stretch and the pelvic tilt), visualization techniques, aromatherapy, acupuncture and herbs like Dong Quai, Ginseng, Stragalus root, Ligusticum root and White Peony root are also said to be helpful alternative techniques for managing the pain.

Good luck and feel better.

Answer 2

You could talk to your doctor about going on the Pill. That seems to help alot of people. And you can safely make your period come less often. As far as other things that may help. The only things that worked to lessen my cramps was to avoid salt and limit my caffeine and I usually avoid foods that tend to make me feel "bloated" or gassey. Along with the things you are already doing.

Answer 3

Calcium supplements helped me a lot - but you need to take them all the time, not just during your period. I went from being almost disabled by cramps to only an occasional mild twinge. And maybe it will keep you from breaking a hip when you get old, too, so there is no downside.

Answer 4

I used to have the same exact problem as you! First of all, nothing for me worked but I went to my OB-GYN and he actually put me on a low dosage birth control. My periods are better and more scheduled and my cramps are not as bad. On the first day it is crampy but nothing intense as it used to be! Also, avoid foods with salt, and caffeine because any of these foods cause extra bloating and dont help too much. I was also put on a prescription called naproxen sodium. I only take it for cramps and it seems to work! hope this helped

Answer 5

You should really stay away from caffeine. Caffeine makes my cramps horrible. I know you've tried exercise but you might try yoga if you haven't already. I've found some positions really ease the pain.

Answer 6

I have the implant pill which stops periods altogether-which is great for me. I suggest you consult a doctor and ask them to be put on the pill. Good luck

Answer 7

Hopefully you dont think this is crude, but when you have terrible cramping it helps to have an orgasm. Seriously, either masturbate or have your partner preform this. It always worked for me.