Top pain remedies for menstrual cramps stated below:
Period cramps, medically known as dysmenorrhea, can be a source of discomfort for many individuals. This article explores various alternative therapies and pharmacologic treatments available to help alleviate these symptoms.
Alternative therapies, such as applying heat, drinking herbal teas, practicing yoga, using olive oil, magnesium, vitamin E supplements, cannabidiol (CBD) oil, self-massage, and gentle exercise, are gaining popularity among those seeking natural solutions. These therapies, however, are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same rigorous way as pharmaceutical drugs.
Heat application, for instance, while commonly used, has weak evidence supporting its effectiveness, and more research is necessary to confirm its benefits. Yoga, on the other hand, has shown promise in reducing menstrual pain and associated symptoms by improving circulation and relaxing muscles [1][2][3][4][5].
Other alternative therapies, such as olive oil, herbal teas, magnesium, vitamin E, CBD oil, and self-massage, are considered dietary supplements or natural remedies rather than drugs. While they may provide some relief, it's essential to note that they are not evaluated or approved as treatments for period cramps by the FDA.
In contrast, pharmacologic treatments like Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used for menstrual symptoms undergo FDA approval as drugs because they require evidence of safety and efficacy through clinical trials [4]. Over-the-counter medications for treating period pain include naproxen, ibuprofen, diclofenac, aspirin, and ketoprofen.
For those with endometriosis or fibroids, prescription medications may be necessary to manage period cramps. Progestin-only pills (POPs) are a specific type of oral contraceptive pill that may be more effective for period pain from these conditions [6].
Endometrial ablation, a procedure that involves destroying the endometrium tissue to help reduce symptoms, is another option for severe cramping that accompanies additional symptoms, such as heavy bleeding. However, this procedure is unsuitable for people who are or wish to become pregnant [7].
It's crucial to remember that everyone's body responds differently to treatments, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment for period cramps. If the pain is spreading to other areas, such as the back and legs, or if the pain causes concern, immediate medical attention should be sought.
References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4328688/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4624699/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6122234/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5816684/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5970377/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3862765/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3862765/
- Women seeking health-and-wellness solutions may find relief from period cramps through predictive therapies such as self-massage, using CBD oil, practicing yoga, and drinking herbal teas, which are gaining popularity in the science community.
- Science has shown promising results for the use of yoga in reducing menstrual pain and associated symptoms by improving circulation and relaxing muscles, supporting its value in health-and-wellness practices.
- While the FDA does not approve or evaluate alternative therapies like olive oil, magnesium, vitamin E supplements, and self-massage as treatments for period cramps, they may provide some relief for some individuals.
- Pharmacologic treatments like NSAIDs and SSRIs, on the other hand, are subject to FDA approval due to rigorous safety and efficacy checks through clinical trials, providing solid options for managing period pain.
