Many women experience severe menstrual cramps, which can negatively impact their productivity and quality of life. During winter, the body becomes more sensitive to pain due to low temperatures. This is because the cold causes blood vessels to constrict, which can intensify cramps. While it is common to resort to medications such as painkillers and anti-inflammatories for temporary relief, there are other ways to ease the pain without abusing medication.
It is important to highlight that, although menstrual cramps are common, these pains can be related to additional conditions, such as endometriosis, which affects about 10% of women of reproductive age and has a significant impact on women’s health. According to Dr. Patrick Bellelis, gynecologist and collaborator in the endometriosis sector at the Hospital das Clínicas of the University of São Paulo, when pain occurs outside the menstrual period, it is a sign that it is necessary to seek medical advice and start treatment.
Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the signs of the body and, if the symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical help as soon as possible. Here are some expert tips for relieving colic at home:
hot water compresses
This is an ancient and comforting technique for relieving cramps. The heat will activate blood flow, easing the pain. To make the compress, place a bag of warm water or a compress on the site of cramping and leave for about 15 minutes. It is important to protect the skin by using a cloth between the bag and the skin to avoid burns.
Opt for hot drinks
Hot drinks have the same effect as hot water compresses, helping to relieve pain. However, avoid caffeinated drinks, as they can aggravate pain in some women. Instead, bet on teas like chamomile, mint, rosemary, laurel and lavender, as they have relaxing, calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
take care of your food
Some foods, such as sweets and fatty foods, can cause swelling and fluid retention in some bodies, increasing menstrual cramps. Therefore, during the menstrual cycle, it is interesting to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding excessive consumption of sugars and fats, and prioritizing vegetables, greens, fruits and lean meats. Also, it is important to drink plenty of water.
keep healthy habits
Physical exercises are very useful to reduce pain during menstruation. Again, physical activity increases blood flow and releases endorphins, helping to control pain. Smoking, on the other hand, can be even more harmful at this time, due to the vasoconstriction caused by tobacco. Therefore, quitting smoking helps to avoid colic.
Rest
Stress stemming from a hectic lifestyle plays a significant role in worsening menstrual cramps. When the body rests through quality sleep, balance is restored. Therefore, rest, along with healthy habits, contributes to a menstrual cycle with less discomfort. It is essential to prioritize adequate time to rest and recover, as this helps to reduce the intensity of cramps.
Many women experience severe menstrual cramps, which can negatively impact their productivity and quality of life. During winter, the body becomes more sensitive to pain due to low temperatures. This is because the cold causes blood vessels to constrict, which can intensify cramps. While it is common to resort to medications such as painkillers and anti-inflammatories for temporary relief, there are other ways to ease the pain without abusing medication.
It is important to highlight that, although menstrual cramps are common, these pains can be related to additional conditions, such as endometriosis, which affects about 10% of women of reproductive age and has a significant impact on women’s health. According to Dr. Patrick Bellelis, gynecologist and collaborator in the endometriosis sector at the Hospital das Clínicas of the University of São Paulo, when pain occurs outside the menstrual period, it is a sign that it is necessary to seek medical advice and start treatment.
Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the signs of the body and, if the symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical help as soon as possible. Here are some expert tips for relieving colic at home:
hot water compresses
This is an ancient and comforting technique for relieving cramps. The heat will activate blood flow, easing the pain. To make the compress, place a bag of warm water or a compress on the site of cramping and leave for about 15 minutes. It is important to protect the skin by using a cloth between the bag and the skin to avoid burns.
Opt for hot drinks
Hot drinks have the same effect as hot water compresses, helping to relieve pain. However, avoid caffeinated drinks, as they can aggravate pain in some women. Instead, bet on teas like chamomile, mint, rosemary, laurel and lavender, as they have relaxing, calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
take care of your food
Some foods, such as sweets and fatty foods, can cause swelling and fluid retention in some bodies, increasing menstrual cramps. Therefore, during the menstrual cycle, it is interesting to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding excessive consumption of sugars and fats, and prioritizing vegetables, greens, fruits and lean meats. Also, it is important to drink plenty of water.
keep healthy habits
Physical exercises are very useful to reduce pain during menstruation. Again, physical activity increases blood flow and releases endorphins, helping to control pain. Smoking, on the other hand, can be even more harmful at this time, due to the vasoconstriction caused by tobacco. Therefore, quitting smoking helps to avoid colic.
Rest
Stress stemming from a hectic lifestyle plays a significant role in worsening menstrual cramps. When the body rests through quality sleep, balance is restored. Therefore, rest, along with healthy habits, contributes to a menstrual cycle with less discomfort. It is essential to prioritize adequate time to rest and recover, as this helps to reduce the intensity of cramps.
