5 Ways to Treat Dysmenorrhea

Do you experience painful cramps during your monthly period? These menstrual cramps are medically known as dysmenorrhea.

What is dysmenorrhea?

Dysmenorrhea is what women experience immediately before or during their menstrual period. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: common and secondary.

• Common dysmenorrhea is characterized by pain in the lower abdomen or back and can be mild to severe. These can start before or at the onset of the period and continue for 1 to 3 days.
• Secondary dysmenorrhea is pain caused by a disorder in the female reproductive organs. These cramps usually begin early in the menstrual cycle and last longer than common dysmenorrhea.  

How to treat dysmenorrhea

Not all women may experience menstrual cramps, but those who go through it monthly may not have it easy. For some, dysmenorrhea may cause them to miss school or work because of severe pain.

To relieve menstrual cramps, take note of these tips:

1. Use a hot compress.
   
   Applying heat on the affected area can relieve pain. If you don’t have a hot compress, you can also use a hot water bottle. Make sure you don’t use boiling water so you don’t hurt your skin. A warm bath also reduces pain and helps you relax.




2. Exercise
   
   Even though you may not feel like, staying physically active can actually relieve some of the pain. Try walking, jogging, or light stretching.




3. Try different relaxation techniques.
   
   When you have cramps, make sure you get enough rest and relaxation. Take breaks when you need to. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to help distract you from the discomfort.




4. Avoid caffeine and salty food.
   
   Caffeine constricts your blood vessels, intensifying your cramps in effect. Salty food, on the other hand, can make you feel more bloated. Increase your intake of iron-rich foods (especially if you have heavy periods) and fresh fruits like banana, pineapple, and grapefruit.  




5. Take Dolfenal for dysmenorrhea relief.
   
   Dolfenal contains 250mg of Mefenamic Acid to relieve mild to moderate pains, including primary dysmenorrhea. Learn more: Dolfenal