Period cramps or dysmenorrhea in medical terms are one of the most common issues that women experience during that time of the month. A natural chemical in the body known as Prostaglandin is released in the uterus. It makes the muscle and blood vessels contract. It can be released just before the actual period (yes this is why we also have cramps during PMS). Normally the cramps will get better after 1-2 days of period.
What to do?
Over-the-counter painkillers
Heat pads
Rest/ Sleep
Low-intensity exercise: some studies show that exercise can produce chemicals that can block the pain
Alternative medicine such as acupuncture
That being said, some signs need further investigation by the doctor. These include:
Over-the-counter painkillers don’t work
Pain gets worse over time, even outside period days
Pain during sex
Pain when peeing or pooping
Pain with heavy period flow and/or prolonged duration of the period
Pain with other symptoms such as fever, abnormal vaginal discharge etc.
