Going through menstruation is never fun, and painful stomach cramps don’t make it any easier to deal with. Cramps are caused by the chemicals a woman’s body produces to make the uterus muscles contract, called prostaglandins. These contracting muscles help release blood during menstruation. Try the following tips to help reduce your stomach cramps.
- Place a hot water bottle on your stomach and relax
- Try taking vitamin B1 for natural relief
- Visit a naturopath to check for iodine deficiency and ensure you are getting enough to maintain oestrogen metabolism
- Have a hot cup of camomile tea to relax the stomach and prevent spasms
- Soak in a hot bath with Epsom salts and a drop of peppermint oil
- Increase your vegetable and fibre intake and reduce your sugar, caffeine and dairy intake to minimise inflammation
- Try massaging your stomach gently in the area of pain
