If it is that time of the month and you have an ache in the lower abdomen, it is normal to search for the best medicine for menstrual cramps. It would be wise to speak with your doctor who can prescribe medication suitable for your condition.
Most health practitioners recommend the use of over the counter pain relief medication as soon as the symptoms begin. Nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, are useful in alleviating menstrual pain.
Why Does it Hurt?
Menstrual pain is known as dysmenorrhea, and one may experience mild to severe cramps. You can take several steps to lessen the discomfort. However, before you do that it is a good idea to understand what causes the menstrual cramps. When a girl or a woman has her period, the uterine lining breaks down. The contractions caused by the menstrual cramps allow the lining to be shed.
The female body releases prostaglandins, chemicals that are similar to hormones, and an important part of the female reproductive system. They trigger muscular contractions in the uterus so that the lining breaks down and is thrown out of the body through the vagina. These contractions are often referred to as menstrual cramps.
If you experience severe and acute menstrual cramps, the body probably has high levels of prostaglandins. Your doctor may prescribe stronger medication to deal with the pain. Contraceptives such as birth control pills and patches could reduce menstrual pain by altering the way the reproductive system functions.
In some cases, best medicine for menstrual cramps may be caused by an underlying condition such as fibroids, pelvic infections and endometriosis. Additional medication is likely to be prescribed by the medical professional, and in some instances, surgery may be required.
Assuaging the Pain
Some teenagers may experience severe menstrual cramps. And while the situation will probably improve as the adolescent matures, it is important to take all steps possible to alleviate the pain. By making an exercise routine a regular part of one’s life you can greatly improve your health. Mild cramps can be eased with exercise such as swimming, jogging, walking and cycling. The endorphins released during exercise will ease the menstrual pain.
A water bath, placing a heating pad or hot water bottle on the lower abdomen may also help. A gentle lower abdomen massage could provide relief. Along with the suitable over the counter pain medicine, one could also have a calcium supplement. Research indicates that calcium is effective in dealing with premenstrual as well as menstrual symptoms.