Understanding Menstrual Cramps: Causes, Home Remedies, When To Take Medicine, How Much Is Too Much; Expert Weighs In

Menstrual cramps can bring painful experiences for some women during their monthly cycle. From sharp and stabbing sensations to debilitating aches, these can cause relentless discomfort and end up disrupting the different aspects of your life. We got in touch with Dr Poornima Ramakrishna, MBBS, MS, MRCOG (UK), Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Bangalore. 

She helped us understand the possible causes of menstrual cramps and shared some home remedies for relief. She also shared her expertise on when you should take medicine and how much is too much. Read this article to know all about our insightful conversation.

Dr Poornima said, “Menstrual cramps, medically termed ‘dysmenorrhea,’ are the cause of pain for many women during their menstrual cycle. The degree of such cramps may vary from discomfort to intense pain. Knowing its causes, trying some natural remedies, and knowing when to seek medical intervention are important for being able to deal with this condition.”

Causes Of Menstrual Cramps

Contractions of the uterus while shedding its lining in preparation for the monthly flow can sometimes cause menstrual cramps. “Hormone prostaglandins have a role in triggering these contractions. More severe contractions may cause more extreme pain when prostaglandin levels are unusually high. In many women, underlying medical conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease also cause the pain,” said Dr Ramakrishna.

Natural Remedies For Menstrual Cramps

For first-line defence against menstrual cramps with natural methods, try some of the effective natural remedies listed below.

• Soothing Heat: “Applying heat using a heating pad or warm water bottle to the lower abdomen may help relax muscles and ease pain,” shared the doctor.
• Exercise: You can also try some light physical activities like walking or stretching. This is believed to help improve the blood flow and in turn, reduce cramping.
• Herbal Teas: Dr Poornima said, “Certain herbal teas, like chamomile, ginger, and peppermint, can help reduce inflammation contributing to menstrual discomfort.”
• Dietary Changes: Anti-inflammatory nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and calcium, can also aid in reducing the levels of prostaglandins, making the cramps less painful.
• Hydration: “Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas reduces bloating which is often the cause of heightened cramping,” said the doctor.
• Acupuncture and Massage: Easing the muscle tension and improving the flow of blood, acupuncture and massage help reduce the intensity of cramps.

When Should You Take Medicine During Periods?

While natural remedies work for some, others might feel the need for over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Naproxen.

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“These medications are helpful in treating moderate and even severe menstrual cramps on their own. They stop prostaglandin production, reduce inflammation, and in turn, help with pain,” shared Dr Ramakrishna.

How Much Medicine Is Too Much In Periods?

Dr Poornima said that while over-the-counter pain medications relieve the pain effectively, you must use them responsibly. “Always stick to the dosing instructions on the package or administration advice provided by a physician. Ibuprofen doses should generally not exceed 1,200 mg per day for over-the-counter use. Overuse of pain relievers may cause side effects like peptic ulcers, kidney problems, or liver toxicity,” she added.

She also mentioned the need for medication to relieve menstrual cramps at each cycle and high dosages might indicate some underlying condition. For this, you are advised to seek medical attention. You are advised not to neglect persistent or excessively painful cramps. “They may mean something more serious about one's health that needs diagnosis and treatment by a professional,” said the doctor.

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