Menstrual cramps which are known medically as dysmenorrhea, is one
of the biggest problems facing the modern woman and complementary health
professionals consider it to be a a symptom of malnutrition.
The Western medical system however considers menstrual cramps to be
a serious
medical condition that can be capitalised on. So before you rush off
to your doctor, here are some things you can do
Improve Your Diet
While we have plenty of food, modern processed food is not very
nutritious and is often loaded with mildly
toxic chemicals that undermine our health. For the best advice on
diet, a visit to your complementary health
professional is advised as doctors are poorly trained in diet and nutrition.
Try to eat small frequent meals because a lot of food causes blood sugar
to swing up and down causing symptoms of PMS. Instead of eating three large
meals, eat five or six small meals a day, about two and a half hours apart.
Reduce salt intake to prevent water retention that causes
bloating. Likewise, avoid liquor and other alcoholic beverages to
reduce headaches.
Dietary Supplements
One of the best we know of is Perfect Balance from
Trace Minerals Research, however this
has limited availability and your complementary health professional can give
you best advice as to what is available in your region.
Exercise
Exercise helps to keep you body fit and healthy so that it functions normally
and exercise can also help alleviate painful menstrual cramps by raising the
level of beta-endorphins, chemicals in the brain associated with pain relief
and has a positive effect on mood and behavior. Yoga exercise in particular is very
beneficial and some exercises can stop menstrual cramps and discomfort within
seconds.
Learn to relax. Rest, sleep and relaxation exercises can help reduce the
pain and discomfort of menstrual cramps. At least take time for a relaxing
massage or bath with oil made with chamomile, lavender, marjoram, ginger
and/or clary sage. They are aromatic and
can aid in relaxation.
Pain Killers
Over the counter pain mediactions such as Ibuprofen, paracetamol, codine and
others offer temporary relief as do some Oral contraceptive pills because they decrease the
amount of menstrual tissue formed and lower the pain level
(amplitude) of the uterine contractions probably due to their
progestin effect.
Mefenamic acid
Mefenamic acid effectively
relieves severe menstrual pain while also reducing heavy menstrual
bleeding, easing menstrual migraine, and easing the physical and
emotional symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Disclaimer: All Information is provided for
educational purposes only and not intended
to be used for any therapeutic purpose, neither is it intended to diagnose,
prevent, treat or cure any disease. Please consult a health care
professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
While all attempts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information,
The Health Information Network does not accept any responsibility for any errors or
ommissions. Disclosure, Terms and Conditions.
