Yes! Giving yourself a massage is a great way to relieve period cramps and other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). There are a few different techniques you can use to give yourself a massage and provide relief from period cramps. Many choose between an oil massage, compression massage, or a shiatsu massage.
Massages may reduce uterine spasms by relaxing the uterus. In order to manage period cramps most effectively, massage therapy should focus on the abdominal area. But a full body massage that reduces your overall stress may also help to relieve menstrual cramps.
Massage the abdomen
Getting a massage or performing self-massage over the abdomen can also relax the pelvic muscles and alleviate cramping. People can gently rub a massage oil, body lotion, or coconut oil into their skin to help this process.
There are three main acupressure points that have been linked to period pain relief: Large intestine 4 – He Gu, Spleen 6 – San Yin Jiao, Liver 3 – Tai Chong. Large intestine 4 – He Gu can be found between the thumb and the index finger. Spleen 6 – San Yin Jiao.
Normally, Qi (vital energy) circulates through natural pathways in the body called meridians. Blockage of this flow or an imbalance in Yin and Yang can cause illness and pain. Acupressure helps to correct functional imbalances and restore the flow thus returning the body to a more natural state of well-being.
This pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. Prostaglandins cause the muscles and blood vessels of the uterus to contract. On the first day of a period, the level of prostaglandins is high.
Mild to moderate cramps for one or two days during your menstrual cycle is usually normal. But many women experience painful and intense menstrual cramps that can feel debilitating and interfere with everyday activities and exercise.
It's usually felt as painful muscle cramps in the tummy, which can spread to the back and thighs. The pain sometimes comes in intense spasms, while at other times it may be dull but more constant. It may also vary with each period. Some periods may cause little or no discomfort, while others may be more painful.
Period pains are worse than labour.
More accurately, period pains are worse than the pain of surges (that's contractions, if you're new round here).
Make sure you have clear facts to state your case. It is much more effective to have facts and figures, rather than vague statements. Be specific and direct. For example, it may be better to say “I have had to take 5 days off in the last 6 months due to menstruation” rather than “I've struggled with my periods”.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is the less common type of cramps and is caused by a medical condition like an infection, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts. These menstrual cramps often worsen with age and can last for the entire duration of your period.
“When the uterus is deprived of oxygen, it releases chemicals that may trigger the pain such as prostaglandins which increases uterine contractions. This type of period pain usually occurs during the second day of your period and is termed as Dysmenorrhea,” adds the expert.
Throbbing or cramping pain in your lower abdomen that can be intense. Pain that starts 1 to 3 days before your period, peaks 24 hours after the onset of your period and subsides in 2 to 3 days. Dull, continuous ache. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs.
It's normal to have the blues or feel sick before and during a period. As hormone levels rise and fall during a girl's menstrual cycle, it can affect the way she feels, both physically and emotionally.
During menstruation, chemicals called "prostaglandins" form in the lining of the uterus. They cause muscle contractions in the uterus, which can trigger pain and decrease blood flow and oxygen to the uterus. Similar to labor pains, these contractions can cause significant pain and discomfort.
When you're in pain, like when you have menstrual cramps, your muscles may tense up. Unfortunately, your body needs to relax so you can actually fall asleep. Period cramps can also wake you up in the middle of the night, interrupting your sleep and making it difficult to fall back asleep.
Cramps last 2 or 3 days. They will often happen with each period. The cramps sometimes go away for good after the first pregnancy and delivery.
Give her some extra hugs and kisses while she is in pain. Ask her what she needs and help her out. If you are hanging out around her house during her period, then help her out around the house. She might find it difficult to do certain activities, so help her out, and she will be appreciative of you!
Gentle pressure around the pelvic area and abdomen can be encouraged during the first few days (day 1-3) when flow is heaviest. Everyone's flow is different, so if you're uncomfortable or sensitive to touch, request gentle and relaxing over firm.
To set the record straight, masturbation is completely safe and normal (as long as you're not harming yourself or others in the process). There is no scientific evidence to support the belief that sexual behavior must be avoided while menstruating.
Abdominal massage treatment may help to reeducate the muscles that control bowel movements and reduce symptoms of constipation and generalized pelvic and abdominal pain. Time the massage to coincide to when you might usually move your bowels; if possible, try to do it once in the morning.
Drinking a lot of coffee
This is one of the worst things you can do when you're menstruating! High caffeine content can exacerbate your pain and also contribute to breast tenderness. You might crave caffeine but you will definitely need to reduce the intake of coffee.
Healthy cardio and workout routines can help lighten your period. Exercising also alleviates cramps and bloating because it pumps you up with happy chemicals and lessens water retention. Working out may also reduce the length of your period because stronger muscles help your cycle function faster.