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Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and Safely

Key Highlights:

Introduction

Every woman goes through menstruation. It’s part of the process that prepares the body for pregnancy. This involves thickening the lining of the uterus. When pregnancy does not happen, the lining sheds. This is what we call ‘period’. The period cycle lasts around 28 days normally. But, it can vary from 21 to 35 days in adults and up to 45 days in young teens. Now, you may wonder why someone would want to induce their period faster.

Let’s talk about what a normal menstrual cycle is. Let’s also find out how it differs from an irregular one. Then, we’ll look at why periods may be delayed. Plus, we’ll explore safe ways to make periods come sooner. We’ll discuss natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and even medical methods. Then we’ll get into some risks and safety tips to keep in mind. Ready? We also answer common questions about periods in the end!

Did you know?

Understanding Your Cycle and Its Delays

First, let’s get the basics right. Knowing what a healthy menstrual cycle is, and what causes delays, is important.

What Does a Typical Menstrual Cycle Look Like?

The menstrual cycle gets your body ready for pregnancy. It depends on certain reproductive hormones. These hormones thicken the uterine lining to hold a fertilised egg. If no egg is fertilized, hormone levels drop. This starts a ‘period’ as the lining sheds.

Reasons your period might be delayed

There are many reasons why your period may not come on time.

1. Stress

Too much stress can mix up your hormones. This may lead to irregular or skipped periods.

2. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

In this common condition, small cysts grow on the ovaries. This messes up hormone levels and menstrual cycles.

3. Thyroid conditions

Both too much and too little thyroid activity can cause irregular periods.

4. Hyperprolactinemia

This condition results in high levels of prolactin – the milk-making hormone. Too much prolactin can disrupt your period cycle.

5. Ovarian insufficiency

Otherwise known as premature ovarian failure, it’s when your ovaries stop functioning normally earlier than they should. This can cause irregular or no periods.

Here’s a quick review of the possible reasons for a delayed period.

Delays in PeriodsDetails
StressCan alter hormonal balance affecting the menstrual cycle
PCOSPresence of cysts on ovaries disrupt menstrual cycle
Thyroid issuesBoth underactive and overactive thyroid can lead to irregular periods
HyperprolactinemiaHigh prolactin levels can affect the menstrual cycle
Ovarian InsufficiencyEarly loss of normal ovary function can result in irregular/no periods

Lifestyle or food changes may be made should you wish to get your periods faster for just one cycle. However, if your “how to get periods immediately or faster” is a more recurring query, you need medical guidance as frequently delayed periods might need some medical intervention.

Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

Safe Methods to Induce Your Period

Still searching for how to make your period come faster over the internet? Understand that if your periods are late and you’re not pregnant or suffering from a medical condition, there are some ways to make your period come faster.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

Many people use natural remedies and supplements to get their period started. Remember, these may work differently for everyone and lack strong scientific support.

1. Vitamin C

Increase of estrogen and drop in progesterone levels due to Vitamin C, can possibly kick off periods.

2. Pineapple

Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple, may affect menstrual hormones.

3. Ginger

Traditional wisdom believes that ginger can start menstruation by causing uterine contractions even though there’s no solid proof.

4. Parsley

Parsley is loaded with apiol and vitamin C. They could trigger uterine contractions that could induce period.

5. Turmeric

Some people believe turmeric can affect hormone levels to induce periods, but there’s no scientific proof.

6. Dong quai & Black cohosh

These herbs may increase blood flow in the uterus or help shed its lining, which may cause periods.

Here’s a simple list of natural remedies and how they work.

Natural remediesOnset of Period: how it happens
Vitamin CImpacts hormones to favour start of periods
PineappleAffects menstrual hormones due to its bromelain content
GingerMight cause uterine contractions to induce periods
ParsleyApiol and vitamin C could stimulate uterine contractions
TurmericCan modify hormone levels to cause periods
Dong quai & Black cohoshIncreases blood flow and promotes uterine lining shedding

Ideally, one must not disturb body’s natural cycles. If your periods make your daily routine tasks difficult to carry out, consult a gynecologist for evaluation.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Lifestyle Changes and Activities

Changing your lifestyle and being active might help start periods. However, remember, effectiveness could vary.

1. Relaxation techniques

Stress can delay periods. So, techniques like meditation, yoga or simple quiet time may normalize periods.

2. The use of warm compress or bath

Warm baths or heating pads on the lower belly could increase pelvic blood flow. This might kick-start your period.

3. Engaging in sexual activity

Getting sexually active and reaching orgasm helps uterus contract. Uterine contractions might induce your period.

4. Reducing exercise if you’re an athlete

Too much exercise can disrupt periods. So, reducing workout intensity might regularize periods.

Here’s a short summary of suggested lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle ChangesAim
Relaxation techniquesMay balance hormones and regularize periods
Use of warm compressAids in starting periods by boosting pelvic blood flow
Engaging in sexual activityCan promote uterine contractions
Reducing exerciseCan return disrupted menstrual cycles to normal

High doses of vitamin C can induce menses by increasing the levels of estrogen in the body. Increased levels of this hormone stimulates uterine contractions, which in turn stimulates bleeding.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

Medical Approaches for Inducing a Period

While home remedies and lifestyle changes might work, medical methods might be the best. But, first talk to your healthcare provider!

1. Hormonal Birth Control

Methods like birth control pills, patches, or injections can manage and regularize periods well.

These forms of birth control work by managing hormone levels. Stop taking hormone pills or replace with placebo ones to get your period.

Remember, the bleeding during contraceptive pill use is ‘withdrawal bleeding’. It is not a real period. It’s just the body reacting to sudden hormone changes from stopping or replacing the pill.

2. Birth Control Pills

These pills are common for regularizing periods. They control your hormones to manage your period.

Taking a hormone pill daily and skipping the placebo pills might bring periods faster due to hormonal changes. Just check with your healthcare provider first.

Let’s take a look at the medical methods that help induce periods.

Medical ApproachesHow it assists
Hormonal Birth ControlInfluences body’s hormone levels to manage menstrual cycle
Birth Control PillsCan control when and how your period happens

Potential Risks and Safety Precautions

Any change to normal body function comes with some risks and precautions. And trying to induce periods is no different.

1. Risks of Inducing Periods

While inducing periods can be beneficial sometimes, it comes with downsides too. You might face hormonal imbalances, disturbed period patterns, or side effects from medicines.

2. Dangers of trying to induce a period if pregnant

It’s important not to try and start your periods if there’s a chance you might be pregnant. Substances that induce period can cause miscarriages.

3. Treatment side effects for conditions like amenorrhea, PCOS

Treatments for conditions like amenorrhea or PCOS like hormone birth control carry risks and side effects. Discus these with your healthcare provider.

4. When should you see a doctor?

Get professional help if your period is consistently irregular, you miss three periods in a row, your periods stop before the age of 45, or you bleed between periods or after sex, or postmenopausal bleeding is noted.

Here’s a brief recap of the precautions to take.

Safety PrecautionsConsiderations
Risks of Inducing PeriodsMay lead to hormonal imbalance, irregular periods or medication side effects
Don’t induce if PregnantAttempting to induce period while pregnant could lead to miscarriage
Side Effects of TreatmentsHormonal medications carry potential risks and side effects
Doctor ConsultationConsider professional help when facing regular irregular periods

Conclusion

We’ve discussed everything you need to know about periods, what delays them and how to cause them safely. We’ve highlighted the importance of understanding your hormonal system and respecting the natural flow of your body. We’ve explored natural remedies and the role of medical strategies as well.

Moreover, remember, your body is unique, and so are your periods. If your period does not seem ‘average,’ it doesn’t mean it’s wrong. However, if irregular periods are persistent, consult a healthcare provider. They can help identify if there’s an issue that needs to be addressed. Always remember, you can count on your healthcare provider when it comes to period-related worries or any health concerns!

Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant On Your Period? Exploring Fertility Myths

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Here are some common questions that come up:

Why would my period be late?

Your period can be late due to stress, too much physical activity, sudden weight changes, or hormone imbalances from conditions like PCOS or thyroid disorders.

How do you know when your period is coming?

You could feel bloated, moody, have headaches, back pain, tender breasts, and cravings before your period arrives.

What is the discharge before a period?

The discharge before a period is generally white or clear and a bit sticky. This is normal and signals good vaginal health.

What to do when periods are late?

If your period is late and you’re not pregnant, wait a bit. If it’s still not there, speak to a healthcare provider. The delay could be due to stress, hormone imbalance, or other health issues.

How can dietary changes affect my menstrual cycle?

Diet matters! Lack of iron or vitamin D can lead to irregular periods. Sudden weight changes can also affect your cycle. Eating a balanced diet and leading a healthy lifestyle is important for regular periods.

Why is it not advisable to induce a period if pregnant?

Substances used to induce periods can lead to miscarriages. If you suspect you may be pregnant, do not attempt to induce your period. Instead, speak to a healthcare provider.

How to get your period faster for the first time?

It’s important to note that attempting to induce your period artificially can have health risks. Menstrual cycles vary, and it’s best to let them occur naturally. If you have concerns about irregularities, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Can you speed up your period?

It’s not advisable to try to speed up your period, as menstrual cycles are natural processes that vary among individuals. Attempting to alter them may have adverse health effects. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.

Can I get pregnant on my period?

While the chances are low, it is still possible to get pregnant during your period, especially if you have a shorter menstrual cycle. It’s crucial to use contraception consistently if you want to avoid pregnancy, as fertility varies among individuals.

Can stress delay your period?

Yes, stress can potentially delay your period by affecting hormonal balance. High stress levels may disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, leading to irregularities. If concerns persist, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Can period be delayed by 10 days?

Yes, a menstrual period can be delayed by 10 days due to various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions. If concerns persist, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Can period occur during pregnancy?

No, a typical menstrual period does not occur during pregnancy. However, some pregnant individuals may experience light bleeding or spotting, often mistaken for a period. If there’s uncertainty or concern, it’s essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Is period delay normal?

Yes, occasional period delays are normal and can be influenced by factors such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, or lifestyle changes. However, persistent or significant delays may warrant consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out underlying issues. 

Does drinking water help your period end faster?


Drinking water doesn’t directly affect the duration of your period, but staying hydrated can alleviate bloating and discomfort associated with menstruation. It’s essential for overall health, but won’t necessarily speed up the end of your period.

How to get your period overnight?

It is not possible to induce your period overnight. Menstrual cycles are natural processes influenced by hormonal changes. It’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, for overall reproductive health. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

What to eat to make your period come faster?

There is no specific food that can reliably make your period come faster. However, maintaining a well-balanced diet rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals supports overall reproductive health. For personalized guidance on menstrual concerns, consult with a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your individual needs.

References:

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Amenorrhea [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482168
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Serum Antioxidants Are Associated with Serum Reproductive Hormones and Ovulation among Healthy Women – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700980
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Maternal Reproductive Toxicity of Some Essential Oils and Their Constituents – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7956842
  4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Comparison of Herbal Medicines Used for Women’s Menstruation Diseases in Different Areas of the World – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8854496
  5. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Black Cohosh [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470187
  6. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Mental health, psychotropic medication use, and menstrual cycle characteristics – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6118267
  7. PubMed. Amenorrhoea in adolescent female athletes [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30119761
  8. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Primary Amenorrhea [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554469
  9. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Secondary Amenorrhea [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431055
  10. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Menstrual Cycle Irregularity and Metabolic Disorders: A Population-Based Prospective Study – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5161370

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Effective Home Remedies For Period Pain

Introduction  

Period pains, also called dysmenorrhoea, are common in many women. Period pains affect the majority of women at some point in their lives.1 The pain is typically felt as painful muscle cramps in the stomach that can spread up to the thighs and back. The pain can feel like intense spasms at times or like a dull but constant ache.1,2  

The pain can also differ from one period to the other. Some periods can cause little or no pain, while others cause intense pain. Period pains are caused due to uterine contractions.1 Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs when you have painful periods as a result of a disorder or infection in your female reproductive organs, while primary dysmenorrhea refers to common menstrual cramps that reoccur and are not caused by other diseases.2  

What Causes Period Pains? 

Primary dysmenorrhea (recurrent period pain) is more common than secondary dysmenorrhea and does not usually occur due to any other diseases.2 Contraction of the uterine muscles and release of a chemical called prostaglandin from the body is what results in pain during periods.1  

Secondary dysmenorrhea is a condition more common in older women aged 30 to 45 years. This can be the result of an underlying medical condition, some of which are listed below: 

Symptoms of Period Pains 

Most women experience some pain during their periods. The pain is felt as muscle spasms in the stomach, which can spread to the thighs and the back. For some women, period pains can be severe and are accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache.1,3 

Suggested Home Remedies For Period Pains 

These home remedies are simple and can help you ease the menstruation (period) pain.  

1. Heating pads 

You can place a heating pad or a warm water bottle (wrapped in a towel) on your tummy to relieve period pains.1,3,4 Heat can aid in the relaxation of abdominal muscles and reduce muscle tension. Heat can also improve blood circulation and reduce congestion and swelling. This aids in relieving pain caused by muscle spasms and nerve compression during periods.4  

2. Exercise 

Exercising may seem difficult during painful periods, but it can help relieve pain. You can do gentle swimming, walking or cycling. It may help reduce period pains.1,3 Exercise aids in pain relief by increasing the production of chemicals that block pain.3 You can try yoga or pilates (to improve physical strength), which can help distract you from the pain and discomfort that comes with your periods.1  

Also Read: CBD Oil for Pain: A Comprehensive Review on Its Effectiveness

3. Warm Bath or Shower  

You can try taking a warm shower or bath. Heat is known to help dissipate pain and soothe the muscles. The heat from a warm bath or shower can help relax and reduce period pains. Heat can also increase pelvic blood flow to eliminate local blood and body fluid retention and diminish swelling, thereby causing a reduction in pain.1,4  

4. Massage  

You can try a light, circular massage around your abdomen. This may help reduce period pains. It is a simple and effective self-help measure.1 

Also Read: Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and Safely

5. Lifestyle Changes 

Apart from these remedies, you can also try making some lifestyle changes to help alleviate period pain and the associated symptoms. These include: 

Before making any of these lifestyle changes, consult with a doctor. Making significant lifestyle changes without proper consultation might harm your health.    

If you encounter longer than usual and irregular and severely painful menstrual cycles, you should consult your gynecologist as it may be a cause of underlying endometriosis, which is a commonly reported and clinically diagnosed condition in females around the middle ages.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

Also Read: Meftal Spas

When to Seek Medical Help? 

For many women, some pain during their period can be expected. However, you should see your doctor if: 

Systematic reviews and RCTs of herbal and dietary supplements have shown that thiamine, pyridoxine, magnesium, and fish oil may be effective in relieving dysmennorhea. Heat therapy has been a traditional home remedy for dysmenorrhoea

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

Also Read: Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and Safely

Conclusion  

Period pain is a common issue for many women. The pain can be mild for some women, but it can also be too severe for others. Women have their ways of dealing with period pain. However, the home remedies mentioned above are effective in relieving period pain. Applying heating pads, massaging, and exercising are simple and effective ways to relieve period pain. You can also try making some lifestyle changes to alleviate the symptoms. However, before making any significant changes to your lifestyle, it is essential to consult your doctor. Also, if you have symptoms like sudden worsening of period pain, fever with period pain or the home remedies are not working out, you should seek medical help.  

Also Read: Home Remedies For Vaginal Itching

Frequently Asked Questions   

What are the home remedies for period pain? 

Period pains are common but manageable. You can try these home remedies for managing period pains. Some of these home remedies are using heating pads, taking warm showers, and exercising. You can also try relaxing and yoga techniques to help with the pain.1–4  

Is period pain common? 

Yes, period pains are more common. Some women may feel mild to moderate pain, while others have severe pain.1  

Do warm showers help with period pain? 

Yes, warm showers might help in easing the period pain. The heat from warm showers or baths can help to relax the muscles of the abdomen and reduce the pain of periods. Heat can provide many helpful benefits like increasing pelvic blood flow, eliminating fluid retention and diminishing the swelling, which reduces the period pain.1,4  

Can period pain worsen? 

Yes, period pain can worsen over time. If you feel your period pain worsening, you should contact your doctor for assistance.6  

Should I contact a doctor for my period pain? 

Period pain, to some extent, is expected. However, if you have a fever, sudden worsening of pain, and pain even when you are not on your period, if the pain medication and self-help techniques don’t work out, you should contact your doctor.6   

Can I prevent period pains? 

No, there are no known methods for preventing period pains altogether. Still, with some lifestyle changes and a well-balanced diet, you can reduce the severity of the pain.2  

Can I use heating pads to reduce period pain? 

Yes, you can use heating pads for period pain relief. Make sure you wrap the heating pad or warm water bottle in a towel before pressing it onto your skin. The application of heat can reduce muscle tension and relax abdominal muscles. This helps with pain caused by muscle spasms.1,4  

Get instant relief from period pain with Sanfe Feminine Cramp Relief Roll On For Instant Relief From Period Pain 

References 

1. Period pain – NHS [Internet]. [cited 2022 Apr 21]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/period-pain/ 

2. Dysmenorrhea: What It Is, Treatments, Causes [Internet]. Last updated on: 2020 Nov 20. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4148-dysmenorrhea 

3. Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods. ACOG [Internet]. [cited 2022 Apr 22]. Available from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods 

4. Jo J, Lee SH. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. Scientific Reports [Internet]. 2018 Dec 1 [cited 2022 Apr 22];8(1). Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6214933/ 

5. Period pain – Women’s Health Concern [Internet]. [cited 2022 Apr 22]. Available from: https://www.womens-health-concern.org/help-and-advice/factsheets/period-pain/ 

6. Period Pain. Menstrual Cramps. MedlinePlus [Internet]. Last updated on: 2021 May 7. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/periodpain.html 

  Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes. 

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Make Your Periods Less Painful With The Right Food!

Periods are a monthly affair for women. Although timely periods are considered as a sign of good health, the 3 – 5 days of the flow can cause great discomfort, inconvenience and pain. Sometimes the pain can reach almost intolerable levels which make it difficult for women to go about their routine. But the good news is that there are some simple no-hassle ways to deal with period pain. This includes a healthy diet. There are a few food items that can help to reduce period pain and associated discomfort and make your next period a little less agonising experience. Here is a list of 7 of them. 

Food Items to Befriend  

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is a commonly used spice with medicinal properties. It is well established that turmeric reduces inflammation in the body and hence plays a role in reducing the pain and discomfort due to periods.

2. Oats

Oats are a great breakfast option because they are easy to make and extremely nutritious. They are full of fibre thereby keeping you feeling full for longer and eliminating the need to munch on snacks before your next big meal. Oats also happen to be a good source of zinc and magnesium which relaxes blood vessels. It helps to reduce the chemical serotonin in your brain that promotes positive mental health. If you are wondering what to eat to reduce period pain, a tasty oats poha, oats idli or even some delicious overnight oats or oats porridge with generous toppings of berries should do the trick. 

3. Ginger

Ginger is a common ingredient found across Indian households in their kitchen. Ginger is naturally bestowed with anti-inflammatory properties which can successfully put an end to any period-related muscle aches. According to a study conducted by The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine in 2018, ginger was effectively found to reduce feelings of nausea and vomiting. Whether you want to enjoy some crystallized/candied ginger post your lunch or dinner or want to soothe your mind and bodily senses with some warm ginger tea, ginger is one of those items that not only reduce period pain but also make you feel rejuvenated.

4. Chamomile Tea

If you are thinking about how to relieve yourself of period cramps fast chamomile tea is another food item that comes with anti-inflammatory properties. More of a drink than food, chamomile tea is easy to make and helps ease muscle spasms along with lifting your mood by soothing your nervous system.

5. Dark Chocolate  

As per a study conducted by the Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, magnesium was found to reduce severe symptoms of PMS. Chocolate lovers will be delighted to know that not only is dark chocolate a healthy snack option but is also recommended as food that help with easing periods related symptoms.

6. Vitamin C

Vitamin C enriched food items definitely top the chart as foods that help with period cramps. During your menstrual cycle, you end up losing a significant amount of red blood cells than your body can make up for. Thus, a daily dose of vitamin c such as lemons and oranges can be highly beneficial for better iron absorption into your body from the foods that you consume throughout your periods (those 3 – 5 days every month particularly). Lemons contain fibre that helps with tackling muscle spasms and oranges contain potassium and magnesium in addition to a greater quantity of vitamin c than lemons which is highly effective for alleviating menstrual pain.

7. Soaked Raisins and Kesar

A habit of consuming raisins that have been soaked overnight and drinking Kesar-water i.e., few strands of saffron soaked in a glass of water overnight have been shown to ease period pain as well as mood swings and associated bloating. 

8. Water

Although it may seem water is the answer to most things, chugging some water actually prevents your body from retaining water. A big glass of water may help reduce some of your period-related bloating. If you’re not a fan of drinking water by itself, try eating water-based foods such as lettuce, celery, cucumbers, watermelon, or berries. Hydrating with warm or hot liquids is another option that can also help soothe your cramps.

9. Salmon  

Salmon and other cold-water fish are rich in fatty acids known as omega-3s. Omega-3s help to reduce inflammation, which makes them good for general pain relief – including the pain of menstrual cramps, according to one small trial.

I would recommend including lean meats like red meat or chicken in your diet if you experience painful periods. These meats might be a great source of iron and protein, which are important nutrients for menstrual health.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Also Read: Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and Safely

Foods to Avoid 

While we are most often focused on what things to do or eat during our periods we often ignore what food items we definitely must avoid? Here are a couple of foods you should be refraining from to keep yourself feeling healthy and happy. 

If you’re looking for natural remedies to ease menstrual pain, I may endorse soy milk. Some women have reported finding possible relief by adding soy milk to their diet. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before making any dietary changes.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

1. Canned Foods

High on preservatives and salt, canned foods make your bloating and cramping worse than ever.  

2. Coffee

Coffee connoisseurs would be grieved to know that caffeine intake during your periods can trigger stress and anxiety making you feel irritable and disturbed throughout the day. In addition, coffee increases water retention in the body thereby promoting bloating which can be discomforting and counteractive if you are looking for foods that reduce period pain. Although cutting out coffee can cause withdrawal symptoms leading to headaches and migraines, sticking to just one or two cups can be the next best solution.

I would advocate incorporating foods rich in calcium into your diet if you want to manage pain during your period. Some great options may include beans, almonds, and dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale. These foods are not only delicious but might also provide a good amount of calcium. By including these calcium-rich foods in your diet, you will possibly be supporting your overall well-being, including your menstrual health.

Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

3. Spicy Foods  

Spicy foods cause stomach upset and acidity. This can even lead to nausea and diarrhoea. During your periods it is best to stick with fresh, healthy and mildly spiced food items. 

4. Fatty Foods  

Excess of oily, fried and fatty food can heighten cramping and so fatty foods (such as bacon) may not be the right period pain relief food.  

5. Candy

Abstaining from indulging your sweet tooth with candies is recommended during your period as they contain a high amount of sugar that can worsen period pain. 

If you’re looking for other sweet treats during your period, I might have a delicious suggestion for you. How about stocking up on dark berries like blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, and cherries? Not only are they naturally sweet and satisfying, but they may also be packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants may support your overall health as well as help you through your period by giving you the energy boost you need!

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Also Read: Meftal Spas Tablet Uses

Conclusion

The best way to get relief from cramps and bloating when you are on your period is to have nutritious and lightly spiced foods. Eat regular healthy meals throughout the day to keep yourself full and free from cramps. Additionally, drink lots of water to avoid dehydration that can increase the intensity of cramping. Along with foods that help with period cramps, engaging in light exercises that are focussed on your core and lower half of the body such as yoga and walking can be beneficial in making your periods less painful. If you find that none of these strategies are providing relief, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your doctor. They can offer proper guidance and may consider prescribing antispasmodic medication for your specific needs.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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