Yes, periods can cause discomfiting pelvic pain and many women experience similar symptoms. That doesn’t mean you have to live with it or that it can’t get better.
Yes, periods can cause discomfiting pelvic pain and many women experience similar symptoms. That doesn’t mean you have to live with it or that it can’t get better. Relief may be nearer than you think, and here are 5 simple things that we at New Beginnings believe can help you, whether you’re dealing with pain related to menopause or heavy periods.
1. Dress for the Occasion
We know how important it is to still feel and look your best when you’re experiencing cramps. You don’t want it to be obvious to others that you’re in the middle of your period. We understand! However, ditch the tight jeans and the compression wear and the belts; they only contribute to your discomfort and make it harder for you to continue on as normal. Yes, you may wish you could sit at home in yoga pants all day, but there’s a happy medium if that’s not an option.
If you still have to go out or go to work, look for loose-fitting clothes that still make you feel pretty, like a drapey swing dress or stretchy linen pants. Avoid things that cinch around your mid-section. No one has to know or see that you feel bloated; let your fashion disguise it while making you feel more comfortable.
2. Keep Moving and Get Exercise
We know that sometimes the pain can be sharp or persistent and all you want to do is lie down and curl up. If you have to and it makes you feel better, do it. What we mean is, try to exercise regularly all the time, even when you’re not on your period. It can help stabilize hormones and other body functions. Sometimes being a healthier, fitter you can affect your periods. If you’re not already exercising regularly, talk to a doctor about what is safe and best for you. Even gentle exercise like yoga and Pilates can do wonders. If you can keep up with your regular cardio exercise during menstruation and cramping, by all means do it! It’s more likely to help than hurt.
3. Try Home Remedies
There are some home remedies that can help with your period and bloating, and a lot of it just comes down to diet. Many women find relief with over-the-counter pain killers, but if that’s not for you, here are some more things to try:
- Eat more fruits and veggies. They can ease bloating.
- Drink more water (a LOT more).
- Make sure you’re getting enough calcium, such as from milk.
- Avoid red meat and caffeine.
- Indulge moderately in foods that sound good. They’re called comfort foods for a reason! Just drink plenty of water and don’t overdo it.
- Give yourself a break. Seriously, if you have to go to work, then at least rest when you get home. Take a hot shower, put your feet up, read a book, and keep lights and digital media to a minimum.
- Get a massage!
- Use lavender oil or lotion or other soothing scents around the house.
4. See Your Doctor
If painful periods are a chronic, ongoing condition that affect you more than you think they should, see a gynecologist. There are several great doctors in Montgomery and around. There doesn’t even have to be an embarrassing exam. Even for girls who are not yet sexually active, a gynecologist can help you get relief from painful and heavy periods. Certain contraceptive pills can help regulate it. Doctors can rule out the possibility of diseases or other conditions that might be contributing to the pain. And they can give personalized tips. It’s worth it.
The bottom line is that there is relief for painful periods; it may just come from a place you haven’t looked yet. Try these suggestions and comment to let us know if any of them help you!