Menstrual cramps: symptoms & prevention

Menstrual cramps are painful sensations that affect many people before and during a menstrual period. The pain, also known as dysmenorrhea or period pain, ranges from bothersome to severe and extreme.

Menstrual cramps usually refer to a throbbing pain in the lower abdomen, just above the pelvic bone.

Other symptoms may include:

• Pain in the lower back and thighs
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Bloating
• Headaches

Prevention

Dealing with cramps every month can be as frustrating as it is painful. There are many remedies that might help relieve period cramps. It's important to remember that these techniques won't always work, especially for chronic conditions, but they can offer relief for mild to moderate period pain.

• Exercising regularly
• Trying to reduce stress
• Quitting smoking
• By hydrating: drinking more water
• Sipping ginger or chamomile tea
• Reducing caffeine intake