How can I reduce severe period pains and cramps?
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I have written this article as a follow up to my earlier article called 'Severe Period Cramps and Bad Period Pains? Why You Should See Your Doctor'. The reason for this is that so many of the comments in my other article focus on people desperately looking for help to solve their period pains. Many of these women are at the end of their tether and have no idea what else they can do to ease the terrible period cramps (dysmenorrhea) they are having to endure most, (if not all) months.
Now my other article largely focuses on probable medical causes for severe period pain, and why these really should be looked into by a Doctor, e.g. Endometriosis and Ovarian Cysts, but before you assume those might be the cause of the extreme period pain, what can you do to try and reduce the period pains to bearable levels that don't leave you doubled up in agony, vomiting, or passing out, most months?
Firstly I would like to point out that few things you can do will completely remove any discomfort or pain caused by period cramps. At best you might be able to reduce the pain to a level that allows you to function in the workplace, school or at home for the duration the cramping lasts. It is also a mistake to assume that swallowing as many painkillers as you can is the answer, and that if they fail to work there must be a serious medical problem that needs an appointment at A&E. You first need to understand that period cramps are just that 'cramps', and a painkiller alone is fighting a losing battle because at best it can only smother or hide the pain, not remove the cause of it.
I have been answering comments on my first article for several years now, and I suppose it has become a slight frustration to me that I get the same comments daily, and that clearly the commenter in each case has failed to read any of the preceding comments to their own. Usually these comments do take the form of young women begging for help and describing the extent of their pain, and how painkillers of various kinds do not make any difference to their agony.
I naturally want people who have tried all the obvious methods to reduce their period pains, to then go down the routes I suggest in my other article. This is because of what I went through for many years as a result of my own Doctors failing to even suggest further investigations after my enduring years of pain that could have been largely avoided if they had not made the mistake of simply taking my condition at 'face value' (not to mention that the results of the ultimate investigations largely explained my infertility and how surgery could have allowed me to have a baby if I had known earlier what was really happening inside my body).
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However....
......there are always going to be many women who simply suffer from bad period cramps and severe period pain, and have no underlying problems such as I had. Any woman suffering from severe period pains should always explore all the obvious solutions before assuming her problem is as serious as mine was, or even worse! In most cases it will most likely be a problem with pain alone, and for young girls new to periods and the associated pains this can be really scary. It is worth noting that many women report the most severe period pains they experienced were in the early years of their periods, and these settled down as their bodies matured.
So, to go to the solutions all women should explore when suffering from period pains, especially those new to periods and the period cramps they are experiencing. These solutions should be tried before rushing off to a Doctor insisting on further investigations, and I urge you to give these a try before worrying or panicking about the level of pain you are going through.
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Period Pains and Cramps Solutions List
1) Probably the one I mention the most in my other Hubpage article. This is the one thing that saved me from the worst of the agonising pains, and whilst only being available on prescription, Doctors will normally put at least six months worth on one prescription. This is the tablet Mefenamic Acid 500mg, an anti cramp medication that actually stops the cramps, and therefore the actual cause of the pain. So many young women on my other article plead with me for help, whilst quoting various tablets they have tried for pain, all of which are painkillers!!! Painkillers are generally fighting a losing battle when it comes to really bad period pains, and it is a bit like trying to put out a fire with a napkin. I have mentioned Mefenamic Acid loads of times as a result of this.
2) Warm baths. A warm bath really does ease the pains associated with your period. It somehow seems to relax all the relevant painful areas in a way a shower simply can't. Take some time to run a nice bath, preferably scented with some essential oils like lavender, and then put aside a good hour to relax and soak.
3) Lavender or Clary Sage essential oils. Again I highly recommend Lavender or Clary Sage oils (these must be 'pure essential oils' if they are to work). Gently massage a small amount on to the painful areas and leave them for your skin to absorb. Lavender and Clary Sage oils are natural painkillers, but Lavender is also a natural sedative so should help you to sleep better in spite of the discomfort.
4) A hot water bottle. Hot water bottles are a Godsend when it comes to period pains. Of course these days they don't have to contain water, and microwavable 'bottles' full of cereal products are just as effective. A hot water bottle held against the abdomen can definitely ease the pain.
5) Evening Primrose Oil. Many women swear by Evening Primrose Oil as a cure for their period pains. I personally cannot say I have ever tried it, but cannot dismiss the fact that many have and many say it works well. Probably easiest to take in a capsule form, as well as being easily available from chemists or pharmacies and health food shops.
6) The Pill. Assuming you aren't trying for a baby the pill can help with period pains by regulating your hormones.
7) Lying in a fetal position with your knees tucked up against your chest can ease the pain caused by period cramps.
8) Mild exercise can help, although that will probably be the last thing you feel like doing. Gentle exercise like walking and swimming will improve the blood supply and should therefore help the cramps to decrease.
9) Acupuncture. Many women swear by this for alleviating period pains. Certainly you have nothing to lose by giving it a try as it has proven to be an effective painkiller for all kinds of painful conditions.
10) Alcohol. A glass or two of your favourite tipple can help to relax you (also thinning the blood), and therefore the cramping tissues will relax too. Give this a try, especially before bed as additionally it will help to get you off to sleep.
11) Massage. Probably more relaxing if someone else does the massaging for you. Concentrate on the lower back and abdomen to ease the pain.
12) Painkillers. I do recommend these in conjunction with other treatments such as Mefenamic Acid tablets, but I also feel the two work best when used together. Painkillers alone rarely solve severe period cramps, probably because it is quite simply asking too much of them.
13) Adjust your diet to include plenty of foods high in zinc, calcium and B vitamins. These should reduce the level of bloating and alleviate the cramps.
14) Avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco, (yes I know I said before to try a glass of your favourite tipple to ease the pains, but everyone is different, so in some cases alcohol can help and in others it will make the problem worse. You have to do what works for you).
15) Try meditation to control the pain and mentally 'switch it off'. In other words 'talk to your brain and tell it what to do'.
16) Eat plenty of Bananas for their Vitamin B6 content.
17) Eat fresh Pineapples for their bromelain content, (bromelain is an enzyme thought to help relax muscles and therefore possibly help with menstrual cramps).
18) Keep your fluid intake up and drink plenty of water (approx 2 litres per day).
19) Drink herbal teas, of which there are many to choose from. Popular choices include Chamomile, Valerian, Raspberry leaf, Peppermint, Hibiscus (Red Tea) and Red Raspberry.
20) Avoid tampons and try to use sanitary towels instead. This avoids pressure being placed on the cervix as the tampon swells up.
21) Invest in some Magnesium tablets from your local health food shop. The correct dose is between 100 and 200mg taken every 2 hours, but for no longer than 2 days. Magnesium is sold in health food shops as magnesium chelate. 500mg of magnesium chelate contains 100mg of magnesium. You can ingest magnesium through your diet too by eating more green vegetables, nuts, seeds and wholegrain foods.
22) Vitamin E is also very helpful if taken for a couple of days prior to your period starting, and then for the first few days after the period actually arrives. Apparently it is especially effective for teenagers with painful periods. It may also make your periods lighter than normal in some cases. The correct dose is 400-500 iu of natural Vitamin E taken daily.
23) Zinc (mentioned earlier) can also be taken in tablet form. Do not exceed the recommended dosage though as if you do it can prevent your body absorbing copper, manganese and molybdenum in food, and cause nausea, stomach irritation and fatigue. The recommended dose for period pain is around 40mg of zinc daily for the initial month, then a lower dose of 20mg of zinc daily if it is going to be used on a long term basis. Zinc in tablets can be labelled in different ways, essentially you will want either 220mg of ‘zinc chelate’ twice a day or 20mg of zinc (as chelate) twice a day, this will be made clear on the packaging though, so always double check before you take them.
24) Chasteberry (Vitax Agnus Castus) also helps period pain by increasing the effect of progesterone from the ovary. Apparently it is less likely to be effective if you are on the contraceptive pill as well. The correct does is 1000mg taken each morning. Do not use this if you suspect you may be pregnant.
25) Pernaton Gel is made from New Zealand green lipped mussels and is a wonderful pain reliever for all sorts of different pains. The reviews on this product are amazing, and it is used extensively by people awaiting joint replacements, suffering from Fibromyalgia, neck pains, arthritis etc. I would strongly suggest you give this a try, as although it isn't a cheap product, a little goes a very long way.
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If this article hasn't helped...
If this article still hasn't helped to bring your period pains and period cramps under control, and you have tried Mefenamic Acid tablets from your Doctor to no avail, then you really need to read my original article and go to the next level by making sure your Doctor investigates your problems further. You can read my original article if you go to:
Severe Period Cramps and Bad Period Pains? Why You Should See Your Doctor!
 | Herbal and dietary therapies for endometriosis, PMS and Period pain are explained in detail by Dr Margaret Taylor in the book ‘Endometriosis and other pelvic pain’. Dr Taylor is a GP who has worked for 20 years combining herbal and dietary therapies with conventional medicine. Amazon Price: $50.95 List Price: $16.95 |
Additional Research Sources Used
- Endometriosis Care Centre of Australia - Herbal and Dietary Treatment for Period Pain
Dr Margaret Taylor is a General Practitioner and specialist in nutritional and herbal medicine. Her book is also available in the capsule to the right of this link.
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If you do get them I will be worried Bob ;)
Glad you approve of the Hub and hope your mates do too :)
Great advice misty. It's funny when people ask questions and the answers are right there on the same page. I agree with your suggestions as I'm all for trying natural remedies before pharmaceuticals. I have used Lavender oil to heal bruises quickly so that makes sense. Drinking chamomile tea is also an excellent remedy. My favorite new muscle relaxer is a clay-based heating pad you just pop in the microwave for about a minute for 30 minutes of lasting warmth with out any leaking :) Cheers.
Thanks Green Lotus, excellent advice and tips. I like the sound of the clay based heating pad. I have one of those cuddly toys filled with lavender scented cereal stuff (not sure what it is exactly). Once you heat that up in the microwave it stays warm for hours and smells lovely too :)
I am hoping by writing this people will read this article before asking me the same questions as they do on my other Hub, but not optimistic!
Nice article I know a lot of these tend to help with mine a bit. I'm 21 with small children. I have had two surgeries for endometriosis and two leep procedures for cervical pre cancerous cell I was never able to go back to see if they got the cancer all out a year ago as my insurance ran out right after the procedure. So I am in pain most days and periods are random but pain constant. but this is a nice list of suggestion to help ease cramping.
Hi Stephanie, I really want to urge you to find a way to go back for another smear. Although Pre-cancerous cells are not the same as actual Cancer, they can lead to it if left untreated. I know you had treatment previously, but in my case at least I ended up having two treatments over about five or six years for the same thing. Honestly, even without medical insurance a smear test is not expensive and it might save your life if there is a problem. At the very least it will put your mind at rest if there is no problem right now. When I lived in Tenerife for a couple of years I paid for a smear test to be on the safe side. It only cost me about 50 euros or so, and came back negative. Still worth every penny though.
I often have period pains and I have to admit it is torturous to experience period pains.
And thanks for sharing this useful hub, misty. I have learned something from this hub and it's really awesome!
Thanks jessiexue, I really hope you can put some of these suggestions to good use :)
Hi,
This list of suggestions is really helpful for pain management. I'm currently trying to get my doctors to listen to me, I have PCOS and I think endometriosis as well - due to the nature of the pain, bowel problems and very heavy bleeding I get. I've been trying to conceive for a year and a half now, and I'm trying to get a referral for a laparoscopy. I may well injure the next one that suggests I go home and take paracetamol!
These tips will keep me going in the meantime. Many thanks!
Hi Wendy,
I really hope you get your appointment through soon. I have had two laparoscopies in the past for endo and for cysts, and they are well worth having and they can remove much of the problem at the same time, even though it will probably return. I too had fertility problems as a result, and it looks now like endo and cysts ruined my chances because they were only discovered and dealt with too late, (I cover this in more detail in my other article on severe period pains, linked to in this article).
Hope these methods of pain relief help you out in the meantime :)
I really appreciate this hub - there are a lot of solutions and tips I had never heard of, and I will be sure to try them out. So thank you :)
Thanks for commenting Rose. Hope you find a few of these solve your problem.
thank you. it helped.i have really bad period pains that have just come on a couple of months. im young and only had them for under 2 years. some of these i have heard of some of these, but some of them are new to me so im definitely trying them. i tryed fetal position and ate a banana and it help a bit. but i get get really bad lower back pain aswell. the lower back pain is usally worse! do you have any solutions for that? thanks x
Hi Emily,
I am so pleased that you have already found these tips helpful. I am not sure quite what to suggest exactly for your back pain specifically, but if you do have a little money spare I have recently bought some wonderful gel that my Mother has been trialing for me on her very painful shoulder. It has received excellent results in pain control for conditions like arthritis, Fibromyalgia, awaiting knee or hip replacements, back pains etc. She is really impressed with the results so far.
The cream is made using New Zealand Green Lipped Mussels, and has a wonderful warming sensation. I would suggest you buy some. It is called Pernaton Gel and you can buy it through their website at www.wellbeing-uk.com or you can call them on 0044 121 444 6585. They will send you out a free sample sachet if you want to try it first, but otherwise a 125ml tube costs £9.25 (GBP) or you can buy a three pack for a slight discount that brings the price down, (£23.75) for the three pack.
I hope this helps if you give it a try.
thanks, i will definitely try that out. x
You are welcome Emily. The stuff really does work very well for pain relief, and the company that produce it are incredibly ethical in their practices.
My daughter claims that pickle juice works. No idea why.
That's a new one on me SanXuary, but hey, you never know, it might work for someone else reading this too, so thanks for sharing the suggestion :)
Misty, I just scanned the second half, I'm not female. However, I feel empathy for the opposite sex to have to endure that problem. Your not alone; men do have some physical problems, mostely mental.
Ronnie
LOL Ronnie, well I could hardly expect you to read the whole thing bearing in mind the subject matter. Thanks for commenting anyway, and I wish you many years of zero mental or physical problems :)
i know you said that laying in the fetal position can feel got but that is a bad thing to do as you "cramp" your muscles get smaller and smaller and if you go in the fetal position it is just letting your muscles get smaller you should acttualy strech out I know it may hurt but i helps in the long run
Interesting thoughts 'need help303', but I am not sure this is a reliable assumption. I understand this might work on leg cramps etc, but period cramps are unique, and it is pretty well accepted that curling up into a fetal position helps. I stand to be corrected if you can post some good quality links here that back up the assumption that period cramps are better eased if you stretch out as opposed to curling up. It should not be forgotten that cramping does not cause your 'muscles to get smaller and smaller'. Cramping is a spasm, like 'a fit' in your muscles, so curling up can help and does tend to ease the pain. The muscles stay the same size, they are just in spasm when you have the cramps.
I have the worse periods ever i mean i cant movee with them.. Ive tryed everythingg jst started feminaz ultra and that didnt work.. Ive tryed everythinggg.. X
for me the most powerful method in not only reducing but in completely getting free of all negative menstrual side effects was energy medicine named cosmic clinic. It is something similar to Reiki but on my opinion much more powerful. By the way scientific view on Reiki healing you can see in one of my hubs.
Hi Bella, if you have tried everything then it might be wise for you to read my original article with regards to what you might want to look into next just in case something else is going on. The link is at the end of this one or in the first paragraph, either link goes back to the original article.
Thanks nadejda13, that sounds interesting. I know about Reiki because my Sister can do it, and also has a friend who is a Reiki Master. I had not heard of 'Cosmic Clinic' though. Have you any links about it you can post here?
Cosmic clinic is not well known outside Russia. You can found something about it in my book http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002BA6CZY and I'll post a hub about it with the explanation and attunement soon.
Thanks nadejda13, who knows, it may become a worldwide alternative treatment yet. Feel free to post the hub link here when you publish it.
Thanks a lot for sharing. I've just recently stopped 'pills' and as a result, I'm bearing quite severe periods pain. I'll try to focus on my diet and exercise and see how good those will do for me. :)
Good Luck thitima, I hope these suggestions are helpful to you and bring your pain to at least tolerable levels.
UH. You say to drink a couple of glasses of alcohol in one suggestion, and to avoid alcohol in another suggestion.
LOL SeeingRed. Yes I do, but this is because not everyone is the same, so whilst one person might find a glass or two of alcohol helps, another might find it hinders the problem. Basically it is worth trying it both ways, and see which works for you as an individual. Personally I find it helps me, but know others who would say the opposite.
I get so sick at my stomach that I'm unable to tell If I'm gonna throw up, or simply starting my period. I'm 16 and my periods are Hell. I heard that taking Birth Control can help seise pain the pain & cramping. I haven't tried that yet. Also would It be a good Idea to go get my first Pap smear done? I haven't gone to get one yet. I'm nervous about that, because I'm not a Virgin. I recently became sexually active. I am having safe sex. It sometimes really hurts though In certain areas. Help?!?!
Hi Ashley, birth control pills can help a little with the cramping and pains, but I still rate Mefenamic Acid tablets as way more effective, especially if used in conjunction with painkillers. With regards to smear tests, yes, you should get them started as soon as possible, and the fact you are NOT a virgin will make it easier for you than if you were. The worst you should feel with a smear is minor discomfort, but not actual pain. If you are having pain during sex you may be suffering from Vaginismus (muscle cramps during sex) or even have a problem because in certain positions the man's penis can hit the neck of the cervix, and this hurts. Avoid positions that cause you pain, and endeavor to relax as much as possible during sex to avoid the vaginismus.
recently been getting sever period pains , almost want to pass out .. iv taken Hyoban , Hysocrine Butylbromide Tablets from doctor, it helps me so much aftr 5 min pain goes away .
Thanks for the tip K, not heard of these before so unfamiliar with how they work.
i don't want to take anything, warm baths though usually don't help... i hurts bad and I've already vomited 2 :(
Try some of the ideas in this article bb. They don't all involve taking anything so should not be an issue for you.
hi mistyhorizon
i am from Nepal can you please help me:) that when i am in period my stomach is paining so much and so much blood goes out i dont want to remember my pain huhuhuhu:( and also i got period 7-8 days late can you plz help me all of my probletoo...:)ms home made medicine and the thankyou so much sista mistyhorizon
poor ju
Hi ju, I wish I could help you, but everything you need to know that I know is here in this article. I am not sure what else I could suggest other than going to a Doctor. Try what I have suggested in this article and if that fails try going to your Doctor for further advice.
Good Luck.
Ju,
Seeking medical help, if not in person, then check the internet and describe your problem. I'm inclined to think you do need to see a medical professional, as soon as possible. I wish you the best.
Ronnie
Hi, I have had a look at both your articles. I am 23 and have a daughter at 2, I have jst reacently started having relly bad period cramp, lower back and leg pain. Jst over a month ago I bled for jst over 3week the doctor gave me medication 2 stop the bleeding but after only a week its back and worse than before, my last 2 smear tests came back with abnoarmal cells. Over the past week I have also been suffering with head aches. I have another appointment with my doctor 2day . Wot do u think could b wrong with me? Oh and It is also painful during sex sumtimes :( b glad of any advice or help thanks debbie uk
Hi Debbie, Firstly I hope you have had the abnormal smear test cells removed with laser treatment as I did, this is crucial and should not be ignored.
I have pain during sex in certain positions, but found out this is most likely because of the direction my vagina points in. The neck of my cervix is therefore over to the right, which can mean certain positions are painful. You may have a similar problem that a gynecologist can verify.
Endometriosis in very rare cases has been found in the brain, so this might explain the headaches, but I can't say this is likely to be the cause of your problem as other people also experience headaches during periods.
I haven't got an answer for the unusual duration of your periods, but hopefully your doctor will be able to help and find out why this is happening.
Good Luck and I hope all works out well for you.
hey im prescribed mefanimic acid and iy works well when i take it BUT problem i have is a feel nauseous so don't want to eat so can't take pills on an empty stomach, any suggestions? thanks
Have you tried milk Megan? I have a problem with not wanting to eat early in the day, but of course I still want to take tablets if I am in pain. Usually I just use milk to swallow them with, as milk is of course a food and contains protein, fats and carbohydrates. This lines the stomach and stops any risk of irritation from the tablets.
There are several herbs which prevent cramping. I personally have used Cramp Bark for years with great success. Research indicates it has a very low toxicity, with the worst side effect being nausea. It takes two cups in one hour to make me feel a little nauseated. It seems to be even more effective when combined with raspberry leaf.
Starting from when I was 12 I had terrible cramps that caused me to vomit and shake and writhe in pain. It took me years of my own research to find things that worked for me.
Here's my formula. I make a batch of 4 cups at a time so it is ready when I need it.
1 TBS cramp bark for each cup of water
boil for 15 minutes and remove from heat
add 1 tsp raspberry leaf for each cup of water
let sit for 5 minutes
(optional: honey, sugar, and/or other flavored teas to cover the bitterness - I like blueberry)
It works hot or cold. Drink one cup to kick a bad bout or sip on and off all day to prevent one.
I also take 200 mg ibuprofen BEFORE cramps start and every two hours after. One of my doctors explained that ibuprophen can stop the release of the prostaglandins that kick in the cramps.
Hope this helps someone else!
(Normal disclaimer: This is what works for me. I am not a doctor.)
Thanks Rachel, never heard of this, but if it works then that is a great thing to share here :)
i have come across this article when i ws doing research for menstrual cramps and ovarian cysts.. i was diagnosed a few months ago with ovarian cysts after being misdiagnosed twice with an intestinal virus... still having the cycsts on both ovaries ( how do i know this ? bc ill still get pain every once in awhile around both of my ovaries like before ) i have read both articles ( to help stop and ease cramping and the other on medical conditions) but i have seen nothing as to how to ease the pain of cramps while havin ovarian cysts if you could give me any advice that would be great since im not trying to worsen the cysts and irritate them in any way to make the pain of them come back 20x's worse where im losing work.. any help would be greatly appreciated
Hi armygirl68j, I am afraid I can't really suggest anything else. I had ovarian cysts as well as endo, so what worked for me were many of the things I describe here, plus surgery to remove both the endo (as much as possible) and the cysts. You may well still find these suggestions helpful for your pain if you try them out, and it is unlikely that any idea mentioned will make the pain worse. I am not even sure you can 'irritate' a cyst.
You try the Pernaton Gel I mentioned at the end of the article as that is fabulous for all sorts of pains and I am sure it would ease any cramping pains.
Good Luck
misty,
I hope your medical problems are a history!
Ronnie
Hi Ronnie, well in a way they are, but at the expense of my fertility as my insides are now so full of adhesions I cannot get pregnant, plus my egg reserve is very low now anyway. On the plus side I no longer have extreme period pains at least. Thanks for caring :)
Cindy
Cindy,
Happy to hear you are feeling better. Life can takes us 'who knows where'. Nature has made me a crude male. You have demonstrated yourself as a 'tough' beautiful female that can meet any challenge with a smile for the future; utilizing your healthy spirit helps to deal with any intrude that may come your way.
Ronnie
you put down alcohol as a way to help and as something to avoid...
Yes I know I did 12345, this is because depending on the individual it can either help or not as the case may be. In other words try it if you are in pain, if it gets worse stop using it, or alternatively stop using it if you are in pain whilst already consuming alcohol. Everyone is unique, what works for one many not work for another and vice versa.
Thanks Ronnie, you always say the sweetest things :)
Take Care
Cindy
Thank you so much for the help, I really needed it. I am only 15 years old and I cramp so badly to the point were I cry myself to sleep.
You are welcome Tyesha, I hope this helps you out so you can now sleep easier :)
This is a really great article! I'm just wondering I'f it's normal that I'm having cramps everyday while I'm on my period?
Thanks Michaela, a lot of women get cramps every day on their period. Others may only get them for the first day or two. Some get them a day or two before the period as well as after it starts. This is all perfectly normal so don't worry.
Wow, I have asked a question about my period on your other hun foolishly before I read this one. I am terribly sorry for your inconvenience! These tips seem really helpful and with going to the doctor I will try these as well. Thank you for putting this up and again am very sorry for my foolishness!
No worries Em, I have replied to you on the other article too, and have suggested this article, as well as Mefenamic Acid Tablets as a possible solution. Hope your Doctor can help you out :)
I take 800 mg of Ibuprofen for my period cramps. It does help but today I just feel icky everywhere. I think its just the weather though. :)
Sorry to hear that LucineAura, hope you are feeling better in time for Christmas :)
Nothing on here really helped, but I so thank you for putting this up and helping other women! I've been to many different doctors all of whom have no idea what their doing, but finally I met a female so doctor who figured out that I probably have a cyst and wants to do a pap-smear to check it out. Which was my stopping point, because I'm a virgin, (and in order to not shove my beliefs down your throat I'll condense what I have to say) and I'm not okay with someone going up there. My doctor was less than pleased, but told me when I was more comfortable with exams that I should give her a call. This really upset me, why should I give up my values for a test that possibly wouldn't prove anything. So, this prompted me togo to medical school. If no one can help me, I'm helping myself.
Hi Tzipporah, actually I understand why you wouldn't fancy a 'pap smear' when you were still a virgin. I am surprised a pap smear could show/determine a cyst though, as I just don't see how it could!. A cyst is on your ovary, a smear only tests the cells on the neck of your cervix, the two do not 'go together' as far as I am aware. My cyst was discovered with an ultrasound probe inserted into the vagina, not painful, although it may be uncomfortable to a virgin I guess. I am pretty sure they could do this externally if essential though, much like a pregnancy ultrasound. You might be better off going to an actual gynecologist as opposed to a normal Doctor, as they will specialise in this area, and will probably be able to work with your beliefs.
My both daughters have this problem. Very useful article. Great work. Voted up!
Well I hope this helps them urmilashukla23 :)
Cindy,
Merry Christmass & Happy New Year! I wish the best for you and your family. You have experienced many trials and tribulations in your past, and you were tough enough to survive it. Continue to Be the Best You can Be, and you'll never regret it.
Ronnie
Thanks Ronnie, the same back to you. Hope 2012 brings you all the happiness you deserve :)
i am 15 and i have been getting my period since i was 12 when i first got my period i didnt get bad cramps i was fine but then when i hit 14 my cramps were so bad were i would faint and/or vomit! this article help so much thanks misty! :D
Glad this helped you Rosie and hope you read my other article too just in case :)
hey , nice article... i experience severe pain on the first wo days .. which is crippling sometimes... i am not too keen on pills and contraceptives.. im 21.. the problem is controlling my diet.. i tend to skip meals as i have a hectic schedule.. and my diet is full of carbs mostly...i dont cook my on food... what do you suggest...
Try including Magnesium in your diet as much as you can. I have just recently heard that Magnesium is very effective at controlling period pains. If you can get it naturally from food that is great, but if this is going to be difficult see if you can buy it in tablet form from the health food shop instead. It is non-prescription so should be easy to obtain.
Good luck
Hey, Well I Am 17 And I Have Had My Period For About 4yrs Now I Take Hot Showers Or I Drink Hot Tea When I Get Cramps It Works!!!
Thanks for sharing your tips here Camo Girl :)
Hi! I'm 16 yrs old and I had my period for 4 yrs now. From the start I have always been experiencing quite painful cramps and the painkillers just won't work.Due to this I have to leave from school because I would faint or vomit because of the pain or wake up like that and stay home cause I wouldn't be able to move. I just read this article and I wanted to say thanks because I am going to try some of the things you mentioned such as the herbal tea, hot water bottle, drinks more water and also have a diet with magnesium and zinc. I was kinda worried since I have several important exams coming up and I wouldn't want to risk not going or fail because I wasn't concentrated enough. Thanks a lot for the help misty !
You are very welcome KayG, keep on trying things or combinations of things from the list until you find what works for you. Different things work for different people.
Good Luck with your exams, and don't forget to consider the Mefenamic Acid as a possibility during exam time. It is prescription only, but is incredibly effective and is not a painkiller.
im in so much pain and when i ate i`m vomiting it back out what to do?
Sorry to hear that shada, try easy foods like soup which are little effort to eat or digest. Other than that I can only suggest you try the suggestions on this list until you hit on one that works for you.
Good Luck
Thanks for the great advice misty, and also for taking the time to reply to people's questions individually. It's been really helpful.
I've had my period for a few years now and always experienced really bad pain. Last year I started a full time dance course which meant I was dancing for several hours a day and found that I no longer suffered pain at all. I've had time off over Christmas though and for the first time in a year got really bad pain when my period came.
I know there have been inconclusive studies done, but could it be possible that an increase in exercise not during your period, but overall, may help with monthly pain?
Just thought I'd put it out there - it seems to have worked for me.
Thanks again :)
Hi Maree, thanks ever so much for commenting. Well I know exercise during your period is supposed to help, but I can't say for sure if exercise in general would. Possibly it could because a fit body may cope better with the pains, but honestly I have no known reason to back this supposition up. It certainly can't do any harm, so I would suggest to a person who gets extreme period pains, they would have nothing to lose from getting fit in general to see if it works for them.
When a friend of mine told me about Peppermint tea, mixed with some honey and a Vanilla I could of kissed her and her grandmother for giving her the recipe. The first time I drank the mix it was tasty and it worked so quick I wasn't even half finished before my cramps went bye bye. The only problem was I had gas for a while afterwards. Medicine may have to deny natural remedies for bottom line purposes, but they can't deny what people experience from using them. Now I drink Rooibos and Green teas both mixed with the herb Ganoderma and that also offers quick pain relief.
Isn't the only sure-fire way to get rid of cramps to have your ovaries removed? Just asking
Thanks for sharing that information here coffeewrite, I guess the doctors tend to forget that most medicines originated from herbal ones, and were simply developed into stronger drugs over time.
Removing the ovaries would probably work, but what an extreme length to go to, and I doubt many surgeons would perform the surgery unless it was due to a life threatening condition. Apart from anything else you would be putting yourself into the menopause early, and would have to rule out having any further children of your own unless you had frozen eggs at an earlier time.
This is not a route I would recommend taking.
my cramps are so bad that i cant even stand up straight..it feels so awful so i need a really good solution..fastt..
I have experienced the 'unable to stand up straight' level of pain many times, and the only thing that really worked was Mefenamic Acid tablets, plus warm baths + hot water bottles on my abdomen. I strongly suggest you try these, and if you haven't got Mefenamic Acid tablets now, get some as soon as you can through your Doctor. In the short term I can only suggest you try as many of the suggestions in this article as you can, because one or more of them should help you to some degree.
Maria, I can't allow your comment to appear due to the nature of the question you asked, but the answer to the question is 'no' it will not prevent you getting pregnant and will do you no harm whatsoever.
My daughter has recently started her period in the last 2 years and she doesn't suffer with period pain. I put this done to the multivitamin she has been taking since she was 5. I wish I knew this when I was growing up it would have been so much easier.
Great hub
She could just be one of those people who wouldn't have suffered anyway though shorty72, as lots of girls don't, and I don't really recall many girls at school ever complaining about severe period pains other than me. Not all families even have the same problem and this is why so many Mothers (who never had severe pain themselves) tend to dismiss their daughters complaints about severe period pains as them 'over reacting' (you can see more of this in the comments section of my other article on the subject of period pains). I am not really convinced that a multivitamin tablet contributed to her lack of period pains to date, although in general she may be healthier as a result.
It is worth bearing in mind that not all severe period pains begin until 2 or 3 years into having periods, so she may still develop them in time to come, (although I hope not for her sake).
Thanks for your great feedback :)
Cindy,
I'm not in the least envious of you, and I'm not a women; but your medical know-how (limited bur sharp)is like a doctor and a scholar (we can all learn from you). Male or female!
Ronnie
Thanks Ronnie, I learned a lot from my own experiences and research, (as well as some good basic qualifications in sciences from my years in education).
Cindy
Thank you so much for your articles! I'm going through some pretty rough cramps right now, but sadly I have to say I had to take oxy (from a past surgery, and yes, I know that's REALLY bad to do.) to help me through it. And reading your aticles helped me take my mind off of the cramps. I think I'm going to make an appointment with my doctor. Although it's hard because my dad doesn't believe in how bad my craps get, even when I'm puking because of the pain. His only response is "you're not the only girl with cramps in the world." I was wondering if you had any advice to how to talk to my dad about the pain? I had a cyst about 6 years ago and I think I may have one again, although it's completely different than before which is why he doesn't believe me. I'm 20 years old, but I'm still under my dad's insurance so what ever he says goes. Any advice would be awesome.
Thanks,
Jessica
I also wanted to say thank you, I've been reading all of the comments and I've learned so much! I often feel like I can't talk to my friends about my period or other issues.And for the most part, I feel like a little kid because of how little I know. Out of all of my friends, I'm the only virgin, so I get left out of some conversations. And as I mentioned before, I can't really talk to my dad about these things as well. My first cyst made me bleed for 3 months straight, and it wasn't a light flow either. (And as a side note, I only wish I had a light flow, mine are always heavy.) My father didn't believe me, and I had my friend's mom take me to the doctor. But anyways, I just wanted to add how thankful I am to be able to read your articles and your comments.
Thanks,
Jessica
I can't sleep because it hurts so much. I tried the fetal position but it eased it just a little. Im only 14 and it hurts really bad. I have not tried the banana thing or the water bottle or warm bath but it won't stop hurting long enough for me to go back to sleep. Please help!
The help is already here Amanda, there are loads of suggestions in the list, you just have to try them until you find one or more that work for you. If the problem is immediate try the warm bath and go to bed with a hot water bottle, but as soon as you can go to a Doctor and try the Mefenamic Acid tablets (they seem to work best). Also ask your Mum or a friend to pop to the chemist or the health food shop and buy some magnesium tablets as these too are meant to stop period pains extremely effectively.
Before next month try to look at some of the other suggestions on the list and stock up on certain things if necessary, e.g. bananas.
Good Luck
I was wondering were u would find a clay heat pad because hot water bottles don't seem to help. Also I went to the docs cause of severe paun and did an ultra sound and I got the info back saying there was water in my ovaries meaning probley an cyst popped. What does this mean.
If you read my other article ( the link is in the first paragraph of this one) it explains better about cysts on ovaries. Essentially we have cysts every month that burst naturally, but if they don't and they keep growing they sometimes have to be surgically removed. Many of them will still burst before it gets to this stage, although they may be quite enlarged by the time they do. Cysts on the ovaries can cause bad pains. The other article will explain in more detail.
I suspect you might get a clay heat pad from Amazon or Ebay, but otherwise try a Google search and they should come up.
Good Luck.
Cindy,
You may have a doctors certification by hard knocks; you are extroadinary in what is going on and how to deal with it based on personal experience. At the very least, I can't help thinking registered nurses would welcome you with open arms. Your one in a million on this earth.
Ronnie
My period pains are so bad right now I can't even get up to try one of the suggestions. That's how bad it hurts. Could being cold worsen cramps?? I feel like it gets worse when the heats on low in my house. I'm 18 and I've had my period for 4 years but I don't think it ever got this bad. I also wanted to know if rumbles (like in the stomach when you are hungry) near my ovaries are normal too? What could cause it? I've been having those I think since I started my period. I never know why they happen it would be really nice to finally be able to know why. Just out of curiosity, you know? Again I am in so much pain my ovaries feel like someones stabbing them right now!=((( please help
Hi Ronnie,
Thanks for the lovely compliments, I was once told by a nurse I should become one, (this was when I was nursing my dying first Husband in hospital). It isn't the vocation for me though, I prefer to write and to grow vegetables. This suits me better :)
Hi Gianna, well I have never heard of cold making it worse, nor have I heard of rumbling noises. I would strongly suggest you read the other article I wrote linked to in the first paragraph of this one though, as this covers other reasons why you might be experiencing such extreme pains.
Good Luck :)
i am 21, married girl also i am studying and want to continue my study. so before 3 months i did abortion and then my period start in continue until last month but not this month. yesterday i and my husband went to clinic to check up and doctor says i am not pregnent. he told me just maybe because of hormonal change. then what is the matter? i am so much afraid. why this kinda things happen?
and another things, after my belly is like hanging from my body even though i am not fat? i am not in good shape. what is the reason behind this? i dont want fat tommy?
plz help
Hi gurl, firstly don't worry about the missed period, this happens occasionally to lots of woman, usually when they are over tired, run down, stressed, over exercising (fitness freaks) or as your doctor said 'if their hormones are changing'. Generally the period will return as normal the following month or within a couple of months.
As for your belly, well it might just be a case it needs toning up, in which case doing 30 sit ups every day (making sure to use your stomach muscles rather than your back to lift yourself up) should help to tone this up. Otherwise have a visit to your local gym and speak to the staff for advice. I am assuming your doctor showed no concern over this, and it doesn't seem likely it is anything else causing the problem!
my period has stop. its already passed two weeks and still not having peroid. sometime my stomach ache and after eating something i feel like vomiting but not really vomiting. i went to clinic and he give me injection and medicine and tolde me it will help me to have period.. is it really true. i am afraid of the medicine and injection what if they came with side effect. :(( and another thing before four days i had sex with my hubby and unfortunetly the condom broke an spam goes in. we r so much worried. we dont want baby now. what can i do now? any immidiate solution ???
and nowadays i feel like my vagina is swelling and itching even i bath daily and change innerwear everyday. i feel like wanting sex all the time but after i had sex i feel like pain inside my vagina. and my hubby also can see the sweling.
today i did ultra sound but docter says no baby. he recommed me not to be worried. i need your help for my problems. i like the way you response and heal us. keep it up.
your reader,
Sorry reader, I just don't know the answer to this at all. This is something a doctor needs to check out (again), or you need to get a second opinion if you are not happy with what your own doctor has already told you. I know quite a lot about solving period pains and some causes of extreme period pains, but what you are describing is well into the realm of gynecology and you need a medically qualified professional to answer these questions.
The only advice I can give you is to return to your doctor and describe the swelling, pain and itching etc, and get him to advise you or treat you for it.
Good Luck on this.
I actually found a cold or room temperature water bottle works well too.
That's a new one on me MissionImpossible, but whatever works is worth doing :)
This might sound a bit out there, my wife used to suffer from period cramps before she had a hysterectomy. In the same category of the hot water bottle. I used to warm her abdomen by covering her with my large warm hands. She felt that the warm calming effect worked almost immediately. I was glad to help her get over this monthly pain.
Hi Don,
The warmth from your hands could have helped I am sure, but alternatively you might be a natural 'healer' and not know it.
Thanks for the comment :)
These are great suggestions. I'm definitely going to look into this Mefenamic Acid stuff, it sounds amazing!
Thanks ladeda, Mefenamic Acid saved my sanity I swear. I just wish it had been suggested to me years earlier by my doctors.
What an article! I actually fell asleep reading it and woke up to finish all the comments!
To the person who needed help talking to her dad... My dad didn't believe me either, it took me missing fun field trips in school and him having to pick me up, while being wheelchaired out!!! Embarrassing, yes, needed, absolutely. Most men won't understand but maybe you could ask him: "What animal (we are mammals) do you know that can bleed for five or more days and not die?"
Women are amazing for the pain we can bear... Because even though once a month I go through immense pain, I've now had it for 18 years and I'm still alive! (and thanks to Period Tracker I know when that will be)
I found the fetal position works, but if I move or don't concentrate on my breathing pattern, I have to try another remedy, but I've done this almost first since starting my period (at age 11).
My pain is by far the worse in my family and I'm almost envious and jealous of girls who can shove a tampon up there and just be comfortable all day. For me a tampon is only for photoshoots or something REALLY important where a diaper pad doesn't seem appropriate. Which sucks when I'm trying to be sexy for my man.
Thankfully I found a love that helps me instead of scared or mean.
I thank you for your article and comments. As I do not like Eastern medicine, too many recalls (Yaz anyone?) I do not take birth control - I was on depo as an older teenager, but know one told me the side effects. :( but I'm almost 30 and want to have babies. I've never had an abortion (and do not judge those that have, had or will) but I believe that anything removed medically that doesn't HAVE to be, could drastically change your insides.
I do not like that people can so easily choose Phx drugs for cramps (docs have tried to prescribe me Vicodin, Percocets and more) :(
I wish the Internet was so readily available when I was a child - Western/Herbal medicine is amazing. Look for the remedies of China... They have been naturally healing since before Christ!
Thank you for article, I know my pains will be here, but it makes me feel better just knowing I do not suffer alone. Now let me get back to my heating pad! :)
Thanks for the faublous comment Stacey, it is so nice to get such in depth feedback, and it is great that you took the time to write it. If you are having period pains as bad as you describe I honestly do suggest you also read my other article as there may be something else going on too, and it may be something that effects your ultimate ability to conceive (as I found out to my cost). The article is linked to in this one, and I warn you now, it has had literally hundreds of comments, so you might want to make sure you are well rested before reading it ;)
When I have my aunt flow I have pains a few days before
And two days into my cycle
The first day is light until later
In the day anyway what I wanted to ask is is it normal to have heavy blood in the toilet for first two days also I feel really depressed crying about everything and feeling sooooo fat
Hi fizz, what you describe sounds perfectly normal, and the first couple of days are often very heavy on bleeding. Being moody is also common (think Pre-menstrual tension, only in some cases it makes you depressed instead of irritable). Many women are a little bloated at the time of their period, but this is only fluid retention so it is nothing to worry about and will soon go once their period is finished.
I hope this has put your mind at ease :)
i am so trying this cause the pain is just horrible . i went to a doctor last month to see if they can help me and they just gave me painkillers which did not work!!!. your remedies sound interesting i will give them a try
thanks [:
Good Luck lalala, and don't forget to try the Mefenamic Acid as this works superbly for so many, and I am eternally grateful to the woman who first gave me a couple of hers to try when no-one had offered me these beforehand.
Wonderful and informative article. Definitely bookmarking. Also, why shouldn't you take magnesium longer than two days? Wondering because I have before.
Hi Natasha, glad you liked this and found it useful. I can't answer your question about the magnesium, simply because this is the medical recommendation, so a doctor can explain the reasoning behind it better than I can.
Sorry Jim, you would at least have to back up your link with a valid reason for posting it before I would allow it on my hub, otherwise it is just spam.
thanxx for ol there facts nd advises!!!
You are welcome yashika, I hope they help you out :)
Sorry Elsa, self promotion through linking in other people's hub comments is against the TOS of Hubpages (at least without asking the permission of the Hub author.) I had to delete your comment therefore.
That is ok, I wasn't just self promoting this herb I was trying to help individuals suffering from menstrual cramps and that was most important. Sorry if I offended you.
Elsa's Blend is not just about promoting a product, it is about Helping other women like myself who suffered from or has been in that constant fight month after month. Its a herb created by God, not my invention but something I would like to make convenient for the women all over the world.
Thanks for the apology Elsa, it is just worth knowing that it is against TOS to post links without permission (it is a common mistake on HP, and usually made by newbies). I tell you what, if you post a link to a hub you have written on this I will read it and possibly allow it on this occasion because you have been decent enough to come back and explain the situation more fully :)
Next time you might want to consider just mentioning the name of the product, and that you have written a hub on it or something. People can then choose to come to your pages to read about it more by clicking on your name.
GO TO THE E.R. FOR A SHOT OF TORIDOL & PHENERGAN FOR SEVERE CRAMPS AND PMS PAIN, ALSO WORKS FOR OVARIAN CYST PAIN.
Thanks Erin, that is handy if they will give it to you and not just pack you off telling you to take a Paracetamol like they tend to with so many people.
dogenes 6 months ago
I feel so smug! I will never get these! But having had mates driven nuts by these woes, i commend you on this hub...Bob