Decreasing Menstrual Pain

30 Nov Decreasing Menstrual Pain

Menstrual pain is a common symptom during menstruation, but how it can affect a woman during her cycle varies from person to person. Up to 15% of women experience severe period pain that can interfere with work and other activities.

The Cause

The cause of menstrual pain is due to prostaglandins, which is a chemical in the body that is made from the traces of fat stored in cell membranes that promotes inflammation. Prostaglandins also cause muscle contractions, constriction of the blood vessels, blood clotting and pain.

Prostaglandins are made in large quantities by the endometrial cells prior to menstruation. When a period begins, the prostagladins are released, the blood vessels in the uterus constrict and the muscle layer contracts, causing cramps. Prostaglandins can also be released into the blood stream causing other menstrual symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headaches. 

Foods for Menstrual Pain

Certain foods can help to lower the level of estrogen in a woman’s body, which can have less affect on the uterine cells. Less affect on the uterine cells means less prostaglandin to be stored in the endometrial layer. 

To decrease menstrual pain, increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and grains, and decrease your intake of animal products, fatty foods, and vegetable oils.