by Harlow Essex

It’s funny to me how one week out of the month women all over the world experience the same, if not similar, bodily discomfort. I find that some women rejoice in having a periodical reminder that no babies are on the way, while other women mentally and physically prepare for a week of total hell. Either way, menstruation is a part of life and we all deal with it in different ways.

Is there a way to ease cramps without having to take chemically induced, man made tablets? Are the tricks like drinking wine, applying pressure on the lower abdomen, and staying out of the sun, supposed to really decrease the amount of pain and flow?

A health column from About.com says, “a 2000 study reported that women who followed a low-fat vegetarian diet for two menstrual cycles experienced less pain and bloating and a shorter duration of premenstrual symptoms than those who ate meat. Women who are losing too much blood, however, may need meat to help maintain iron levels. Choosing more fish and eggs may be a helpful alternative.” The article followed up by suggesting limiting salt intake, reducing caffeine, sugar, and alcohol. (Basically all the comfort food you might tell yourself is okay to eat.)

Exercise is also said to relieve the pain caused by menstruation. It releases tension and stress and may reduce hormonal levels. Sexual activity can be another way to ease tension. Reports show, according to the article, that orgasms reduce the severity of cramping. Applying heat to the stomach or taking a warm bath is another helpful tip. 

Eating healthy and staying relaxed seems to work well, but then there are always certain cases and different bodies with varying hormonal imbalances that may also cause how severe the menstruation cycle happens.

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