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How to stop period cramps at school How to stop period cramps at school
ByAvatarRiddhi
August 8, 2022
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How to Stop Period Cramps? 8 Effective Methods

Table of Contents Show
  1. 1. Why Do We Get Menstrual Cramps?
    1. 1.1. Endometriosis
    2. 1.2. Adenomyosis
    3. 1.3. Uterine Fibroids
    4. 1.4. Cervical Stenosis
    5. 1.5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
  2. 2. How To Stop Period Cramps?
    1. 2.1. Take Ibuprofen
    2. 2.2. Apply Heat
    3. 2.3. Get Some Movement And Exercise
    4. 2.4. Have Dark Chocolate
    5. 2.5. Give Yourself A Massage
    6. 2.6. Drink Enough Water
    7. 2.7. Birth Control
    8. 2.8. Take Deep Breaths And Relax!
  3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
    1. 1. How long do period cramps last?
    2. 2. Does period pain get worse with age?
    3. 3. What position helps with cramps?
  4. The Bottom Line
  5. Author
Let’s admit it, periods are an ordeal. On average, females menstruate for about 40 years of their lives. But, getting used to the discomfort caused by them is not an easy thing to do.
Menstruation is not just the blood flow and the constant paranoia of staining our clothes. These 5 days also bring along painful cramps. In many women, it might become debilitating.
Period pain is something most women face a tough time with. While some experience manageable mild cramps. Many women face more severe period pain and might need to adopt extra measures to relieve cramps.
If you recently got your first period and want to know about cramps. Then this is going to be helpful. This information gives you an understanding of how to soothe the pain while in school.
Here are some simple ways to get rid of period cramps anytime, anywhere, and make this ordeal a little bit easier.

1. Why Do We Get Menstrual Cramps?

One menstrual cycle lasts about 28 – 35 days. At the end of which the uterine lining sheds with blood and mucus if the egg is not fertilized. This is what’s commonly known as a period.
 
Menstruation is a necessary process. But why the cramps? What causes menstrual pain? Are there any underlying causes or health conditions responsible for such cramping?
 
We have prostaglandins to blame for menstrual cramps. These hormone-like substances cause inflammation. This, in turn, causes muscle tension that allows the uterine lining to shed. So more prostaglandins mean more blood flow and more menstrual pain.
 
There are several factors that might cause severe menstrual cramps. Such as smoking, early menarche, irregular bleeding, obesity, and family history.
 
Besides, severe menstrual pain might have underlying causes that need professional medical advice.
Here are some possible causes for which you might need to consult a doctor.

1.1. Endometriosis

5 Warning Signs of Endometriosis

Normally, the lining of the uterus grows inside the uterine walls. However, endometriosis is a condition that causes this lining to grow outside.

The lining can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even the intestines. This condition might be a major reason behind period pain.

1.2. Adenomyosis

This condition causes the lining to start growing inside the uterine walls. In most cases, this is seen in the later years, around menopause.
 
Apart from severe cramps, adenomyosis causes heavy bleeding. It also increases the formation of blood clots.
 
The relief of symptomatic period pain is possible through medications. However, a hysterectomy can cure this condition completely.

1.3. Uterine Fibroids

shutterstock 1712984434 1
Image from Shutterstock
Uterine fibroids are non-malignant growths that might occur during reproductive age. They are more common in women who start menstruating at an early age.
 
Fibroids might be asymptomatic in some cases. However, the common symptoms are heavy prolonged periods and cramping of the abdomen and pelvic region.

1.4. Cervical Stenosis

In some women, the opening of the cervix is small and might restrict the menstrual flow. This causes an increase in the pressure inside the uterus, leading to severe pain.

shutterstock 1349338508
Image from Shutterstock.

1.5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

This condition happens due to sexually transmitted bacteria. Which is also a major reason behind severe period cramps. If the infection spreads to the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
 
Pelvic pain, fever, and abnormal vaginal discharge are some common symptoms. However, it is not a chronic condition and can be treated with medications within a week.
Goes without saying, good reproductive health is important to avoid this condition.

2. How To Stop Period Cramps?

Yes, heat does the trick, and hot water or a warm bath is very relaxing when grappling with menstrual cramps and inflammation.

However, no matter how tempting it might seem, it is not always possible to abandon all responsibilities.

Well, put your stress aside. Here are some ways to relieve pain caused by cramping in complicated situations.

2.1. Take Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a medicine that is commonly used to treat menstrual cramps. These painkillers are generally available over the counter.
 
These act as effective pain relievers. It is not only good for period cramps but also for toothaches, arthritis, headaches, and migraines.
 
So, Ibuprofen provides relief from any other sort of period pain, not just abdominal cramps.
 
Make sure you have the approval of your parents. And also get checked by a medical professional. If you have any allergies then avoid them. Otherwise, you will have unpleasant side effects.
 
However, not all schools allow students to carry medications without a doctor’s note. So if you cannot take Ibuprofen for whatever reason, try one of these.
shutterstock 371278951
Image from Shutterstock

2.2. Apply Heat

Heat is the ultimate and the safest pain reliever when it comes to period cramps. While it is impossible to slip into a hot bath in school, here are a few things you can try.

Carry a hot water bottle when on your period. It will keep you well hydrated while providing relief from the cramping at the same time.

A heating pad is a convenient and comfortable option for cramp relief. While at home, you can use a hot water bag, but this becomes tedious when elsewhere.

You might want a portable heating pad in such a situation. They can be easily worn under clothes and provide relief from cramps for a few hours.

hot water bag
By: Alsterkoralle/Pixabay © 2017

2.3. Get Some Movement And Exercise

Yes, we know this is the last thing you want to do while on your period. However, it has been proven that exercise helps eliminate period cramps.

Exercise and movement help increase the circulation of blood. This, in turn, increases blood flow and helps relieve cramping.

So whenever you get the chance, do some stretching and take a walk. You can even try spot jogging if you feel up for something more intense. Your body will be grateful for it!

Woman jogging
By: Alex  McCarthy/Unsplash © 2020

2.4. Have Dark Chocolate

Here is a delicious way to soothe cramping. Believe it or not. Dark chocolates are great pain relievers that help eliminate period cramps!
 
Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which acts as a muscle relaxant. Therefore, this divine food item will also relieve period pain.
 
Surely the perfect solution to your period cravings. Don’t forget to carry some to school when on your period.

2.5. Give Yourself A Massage

A massage is a sure shot way to get the blood flowing and relieve cramps. Essential oils are effective pain relievers and provide comfort by relaxing the muscles.
 
Oils like lavender rose and clove are easily available and can be used for a massage. You can easily carry a little to school.
 
So whenever things get uncomfortable, treat yourself to a nice little massage. Along with helping with the aches, the aroma would also help calm you down so that you can focus better in class!
essential oils
By: Towfiqu Barbhuiya/Unsplash © 2021

2.6. Drink Enough Water

This might sound simple and mundane, but it actually works wonders! It is important to stay well-hydrated, but it becomes even more crucial when on your period.
 
In spite of muscle cramps, bloating also causes uncomfortable pains during a period.
 
Drinking enough water reduces bloating. It also reduces the discomfort caused by such situations. Drinking enough water makes up for the fluids your body is losing along with blood.

2.7. Birth Control

If you are experiencing very intense period cramps or heavier flow than normal. Then you can go for birth control pills.
 
Generally, women suffering from medical conditions that cause irregular and painful periods use this method to make their periods more manageable.
 
However, do talk to your doctor before taking birth control. It is best to seek medical advice in such cases and go for it only if a doctor recommends it.
birth control pills
By: Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition/Unsplash © 2019

2.8. Take Deep Breaths And Relax!

Last, but not least, try to take your mind off the pain. Do some deep breathing and relax.

It will automatically make you feel better and attain a better focus on what you are doing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do period cramps last?

Period cramps typically begin a few days before the start of your period and might linger for one to two days after it begins.

2. Does period pain get worse with age?

Yes, some women may experience heavier and more painful periods beyond the age of 40.

3. What position helps with cramps?

Cramps may be relieved and pressure on the abdomen reduced by sleeping on your back or side. During their period, people might experiment with different sleeping positions to see what suits them the best.

The Bottom Line

Although these measures can provide symptomatic relief. But nothing is more effective than maintaining good health. Hence it is very important to take proper care of your body regularly to manage period cramps.
 
Don’t forget to exercise regularly, eat healthily, and maintain good reproductive health. This will surely help ease your period and reduce the strain on your body.
 
Below are some other ways to easily stop period cramps at school. Please share this with your friends to make their next period slightly easier.

Last Updated on by Ananya Sreen

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