How To Stop Period Cramps FAST

How To Get Rid Of Cramps...FAST

Period cramps may be a stereotypical thing in movies to show someone is on their period but they are also very real (and sometimes very painful) symptom of the menstrual cycle. When do they start? How long are they going to stick around? And most important HOW CAN WE GET RID OF THEM!? And a few tips on how to avoid them too! :) 

The Cramp Timeline

Cramps often kick off 1 to 2 days before your period, reaching their peak during the first days of menstruation. The intensity and duration can vary, but most find relief as their period progresses, with cramps waving goodbye by the end of their period.

Why So Crampy?

Period cramps are caused by uterine contractions, helping to shed its lining. Factors like stress, diet, and certain medical conditions can turn up the volume on these cramps, making each person's experience uniquely their own. If you have cramps that are making it hard to go to school or work, this would be something to bring up with a doctor who will listen. Cramps are actually not an inevitable part of having periods, especially debilitating ones!

Quick Relief Tips

• Magnesium Mist: You can spray Magnesium Mist directly on the abdomen and rub in for soothing relief. (tip! spray in arm pits or on feet daily to help keep your magnesium levels optimal and potentially avoid cramps all together!) 
• Heat Therapy: A heating pad on the abdomen or a warm bath can help relax muscles which will help to alleviate the pain.
• Stay Active: Gentle exercise like walking can reduce severity of cramps. We know it doesn't sound fun to get up and move when you're hurting, but the physical movement will help you feel better, not to mention it will give you a mood boost from those feel good hormones. 
• Hydrate and Eat Well: Water and nutritious food can help alleviate cramps. Keep an icy water bottle close by. Load up on warm foods and foods that are rich in Omega 3s (think salmon, anchovies, avocados) Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is also super helpful! At least the days right before and the first few days of your period.
• Get Some Lovin or "self care" ;) Did you know orgasms increase blood flow? "When you orgasm, the blood rushes to the uterus and helps relieve the cramps. Talk about the ultimate win, win!

Avoiding cramps!

Avoiding cramps is all about creating an environment for healthy hormones.  

Keeping up on your Magnesium, staying hydrated, giving your body nutritious food, and moving your body all cycle long will all have positive payoff when your period shows up. Don't wait until you're toppled over in pain, doing a little each day all cycle long helps. One of our favorite resources to help trouble shoot your period problems is The Period Repair Manual from Dr. Lara Briden. 

Understanding your body's rhythms will help to manage period cramps more effectively. Each cycle offers a chance to learn what works best for you, turning the tide on period pain. 

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