HEALTH

The initiation of menstruation, called menarche, usually happens between the ages of 12 and 15. Menstrual cycles typically continue to age 45 to 55, when menopause occurs. Many women find themselves reluctant to discuss the existence and normality of menstruation. The word menstruation has been replaced by a variety of euphemisms, such as the curse, my period, my monthly, my friend, the red flag, or on the rag. First, its is important to understand what period cramps are and why they happen. Period(or menstrual cramps) are caused by contractions in the uterus as it sheds its lining during menstruation. The contractions can cause pain in the lower abdomen, lower back and sometimes thighs. For some people, the pain is mild and doesn't interfere with daily activities. For others, the pain can be severe and debilitating.

The main cause of period cramps are contractions in the uterus and the release of chemicals called prostaglandins. Contractions in the uterus are caused by the hormone prostaglandin F2-alpha (PGF2-alpha). This hormones is released from the endometrium, the lining of the uterus during menstruation. PGF2-alpha causes the muscles of the uterus to contract, which can cause pain. Prostaglandin are a group of chemicals that can cause inflammation and pain. They are released from the endometrium and the ovaries during menstruation. The amount of prostaglandins the body releases correlates with the intensity of these contractions, and so the severity of period pain. People with primary dysmenorrhea also often experience longer, heavier periods.

Certain risk factors may contribute to the condition, including:

smoking

stress

anxiety or depression

having excess weight

trying to lose weight

beginning periods at an early age

never having been pregnant

a family history of painful periods.

Now, let's talk about some ways to manage period cramps. There are a few things you can do to help alleviate the pain. First, try applying heat to your lower abdomen. You can do this with a hot water bottle, a heating pad, or a warm towel. Heat helps to relax the muscles and increases blood flow, which can help to reduce the pain. You can also try taking over-the -counter pain relievers such as felvin or acetaminophen, to help with pain and inflammation. It is also important to stay hydrated and to eat a healthy diet. There are few other factors that can contribute to period cramps. One is stress. Stress can cause the body to release more prostaglandins, which can make period cramps worse. Some strategies that may help relieve period pain when it occurs include:

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen

heat therapy, such as a heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm bath

transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which people can use at home, work, or school via portable TENS machines

having an orgasm, either alone or with a partner

gentle exercise

acupuncture or acupressure

Some forms of hormonal birth control may help to reduce the severity of period pain. Some forms can also stop periods entirely. Examples of methods that may do this include the pill, the implant, and the injection. Hormonal IUDs can also reduce or stop periods, but the insertion process may cause cramping. People with conditions that can cause dysmenorrhea, such as PID, may want to avoid hormonal IUDs. As we discussed earlier, heat therapy, OTC pain relievers, hydration and healthy eating can all help manage period cramps. In addition to these, there are a few other things you can do. Some women find that gentle exercise such as walking very helpful to them. Others find that relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation very helpful. And finally, wearing a supportive bra and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help to ease period cramps.