|  | Family Health | Womens Health

How to Relieve Period Symptoms

Fluctuating hormone levels may be responsible for pain and discomfort before and during a woman's monthly period. There are two main groups of symptoms associated with a woman's cycle, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and dysmenorrhea (painful periods). PMS may begin as early as 14 days before your cycle and end during the first day or two of your period. Dysmenorrhea may begin one or two days before your period and last up to the first three days of your period. Some diet and lifestyle changes may reduce the symptoms. (References 1 and 2, in the intros of both).

Things You'll Need

  • Bathtub Over-the-counter medicines Prescription
Show More

Instructions

  1. Treating Symptoms

    • 1

      Soak in a warm bath or place heating pad on your abdomen, suggests FamilyDoctor.org. The warmth may relax your muscles and may alleviate some of the cramping. (Reference 2)

    • 2

      Try over-the-counter (OTC) medications for treating the cramping and pain associated with the first few days of your period. Those designed specifically for menstrual pain often combine acetaminophen with caffeine, diuretics or antihistamines and include brands such as Midol, Premsyn PMS and Pamprin. Regular OTC pain relievers may also help. (Reference 2)

    • 3

      Reduce your intake of certain foods to relieve some of your PMS symptoms. Limiting caffeine may reduce breast soreness and irritability. Eliminate as much sugar from your diet as possible and limit your salt intake in the days just before your period is due to reduce excess water retention, which may exacerbate your symptoms. (Reference 1)

    • 4

      Sleep eight hours a night and exercise at least four times a week for 30 minutes. Make a conscious effort to cancel or reschedule stressful appointments or events until your period ends. (Reference 1)

    • 5

      Ask your gynecologist about birth control pills to regulate your hormones and reduce the symptoms of PMS and dysmenorrhea. (Reference 1)

    • 6

      Visit with your physician about chronic period symptoms that do not respond to diet and lifestyle changes. Keep a record of your symptoms and take it with you to your doctor's appointment. (Reference 2)

Womens Health - Related Articles