10 natural ways to treat menstrual cramps, backed by evidence

Most women report some painful or discomfort with their period. However, some women have killer cramps (the medical term is severe dysmenorrhea) and for many of them life goes on a 3 to 5-day hold once a month. Period pain is due to release of a substance called prostaglandins from the lining of the uterus during menstruation. Prostaglandins help the uterus contract (cramp), which is one of the mechanisms used to clot the blood and eventually end the period.  Why do some women have more painful periods? Studies tell us some women make more prostaglandins, and most prostaglandins mean more pain. Medical conditions, such as endometriosis, muscle spasm in the pelvis, and bladder pain syndrome, can all get worse during the period as hormones have a very complex effect on pain. In addition, prostaglandins make all pain worse (if you cut your hand and poured prostaglandins into the wound it would hurt a lot more). So, if you have a pain condition in the pelvis and your body starts churning out prostaglandins the pain condition may flare. Continue reading ... Your patients are rating you online: How to respond. Manage your online reputation: A social media guide. Find out how.
Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Tags: Meds Medications OB/GYN Source Type: blogs