Steady heat on the abdomen can ease painful menstrual cramps.
Menorrhagia, or heavy periods, affect 1 in 5 American women, according to the Advanced Women's Health Center. Symptoms of menorrhagia are heavy bleeding, painful cramps and prolonged menstruation times. Generally, a heavy period features bleeding that lasts more than seven days and requires you to double up on protection. Menstrual cramps may be so severe that you cannot participate in everyday activities. There are several things you can do to combat heavy periods and make this time easier for you.
Instructions
1. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables to ensure your reproductive system is functioning properly. Stick to a low-salt diet, as excessive salt in your body can contribute to bloating. Avoid sugar, red meat and caffeine. Stay adequately hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water every day and be sure to include exercise into your routine at least four times per week.
2. Apply a warm compress to your lower abdomen, such as a hot water bottle or heating pad. The steady warmth will relax your muscles, taking the edge off painful cramps. Soak in a warm bath for a similar muscle-relaxing effect.
3. Talk to your doctor about taking medicines and supplements thought to ease menstrual troubles, such as thiamine, vitamin E and omega-3. Over-the-counter medications your doctor may recommend include ibuprofen or naproxen. These are typically taken on the day you start your period to ease cramps and decrease blood flow slightly.
4. Explore alternative pain relief methods, such as acupressure, acupuncture and massages. Acupunture may actually reduce heavy bleeding for some women. Stress can contribute to heightened menstrual symptoms, so do what it takes to lower your stress levels and get a good night's sleep during your period.
5. Visit your gynecologist to discuss your hormone levels. Get a pelvic exam, Pap smear and blood tests. With a doctor's guidance, take low-dosage oral contraceptives to regulate your hormones, as off-levels are considered to be a key factor in a heavy period, according to the Advanced Women's Health Center. Contraceptives send the hormone progestin to the lining of your uterus, easing heavy periods.
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