Ah, period pain. There’s nothing quite like it — and sometimes, as we have seen in this series, when it’s bad, it’s really, really bad. It is incredibly common, but the intensity of menstrual pain is something that can catch you by surprise.

As we conclude this series on period pains, we just wanted leave you with some tips that will better equip you for your next period. Sorry to say - if you are looking for a foolproof way to get rid of period pain instantly this is not it. Rather these are ways to reduce cramping, alleviate pain, and possibly stop cramps from getting bad in the first place.

Combating Dysmenorrhea

We have previously suggested that heavy bleeding & intense pain may also be related to increased prostaglandin levels during menstruation. Why prostaglandin levels are not elevated in all women with dysmenorrhea – we don’t know yet. One interesting point here is that prostaglandin-inhibiting drugs have been found to reduce primary dysmenorrhea.

Ultrasound, hysterosalpingogram (X-ray inspection of the uterus and uterine tubes after the injection of a radio opaque dye), and laparoscopy (the passage of an endoscope through the abdominal wall to view the abdominal cavity) are all possible diagnostic tests for secondary dysmenorrhea. Your doctor would be the best person to suggest which method is most effective for you – both in terms of testing & treatment of secondary dysmenorrhea.

Hormones & Contraceptives

Birth control tablets and some IUDs deliver consistent levels of hormones to your uterus, basically telling it what to do. If you have a heavy flow, for example, consistent dosages of estrogen and progesterone will prevent your uterine lining from thickening.

This is why, in order to alleviate the symptoms of illnesses like PCOS and fibroids, doctors routinely prescribe contraceptives. Even if your doctor is unable to identify an underlying explanation for your symptoms, they may be beneficial.

Taking The Natural Route

Did you know that diet can have both a positive and negative effect on your menstrual cycle? We have extensively covered natural remedies to ease your discomfort in terms of your diet, physical fitness & herbs. Spare some time to read it, take back some control and get back on track with your busy life, we say.

Overworking and stress can take its toll on our bodies, more importantly our menstrual cycles. Take some time out for yourself wherever possible. 

Keep A Period Diary

The easiest approach to figure out what your body responds to in the long run is to use a period tracker or period diary to figure out your own particular cycle.

Start keeping track of your symptoms each day to figure out when your cramps are the worst, then try some of the suggestions in this blog. Again, keep track of which ones work and which don't.

Keeping track with Apps

Many period apps exist to assist you keep track of your symptoms and whether they recur. They can be extremely useful in forming a clear picture of your experience and recognising when you require professional assistance.

Series Summary

While this knowledge might not make your cramps disappear, it will give you some insight on what you can do to treat it.

Understanding the different types of cramps you might be having, and how to get rid of them (at least temporarily) will offer you a sense of control over your rebellious reproductive organs.

Listen to your body and see what feels right for you.