Cramps After Period: Causes, Prevention, And Remedies
Sometimes, the periods go but the problems last longer. One such problem is the cramps that stay longer than the troublesome days. For many, other problems like bloating, loss of appetite, and dullness also follow. These surely are indicators that something is wrong in the body. Witnessing cramping even after periods can be caused by several contributing factors. Read on for how and what could be the reasons and their solutions for this peculiar condition – ‘cramps after period’ and how can you control it.
Main causes of cramps after period
1. Uterine debility
There are cases when bleeding during the periods is lesser than what it should have been. If the required amount of bleeding does not happen during the days, it is possible that the blood left is causing cramping in the abdominal region. For some, there also might be spotting for 3-5 days after periods.
2. Imbalance of hormones
The two hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) have major roles to play during and after the menstrual cycle. There are times when these are not secreted in required amounts, causing imbalance or deficiency in hormones. This may lead to headaches, cramps, bloated feeling, lack of appetite, and irregular period for a while.
3. Contraceptive pills
Oral contraceptives create an artificial change in hormonal level to reduce chances of pregnancy. And, post menstruation, the body has natural hormonal changes. This clash in hormone secretion leads to some serious cramping which subsides as the body gives in to the medication. It often causes post menstrual spotting and abnormal secretion in a few cases.
4. Uterine cysts
Cysts are a sac like growth that occurs on the uterus because of clogging or infection. It causes abnormal cycles, bleeding, and cramping. If you are suffering from cramps after period, there are chances of having uterine cysts which needs medical attention immediately. This pain fades within 3-4 days ideally but is massive in occurrence.
5. Health issues
When suffering from thyroid, cancer, and major or minor reproductive system infections, the menstrual cycle gets affected in several ways. It may cause irregular periods, abnormal discharges, cramps and spotting post periods, and weakness. Besides, any medication taken for these problems also causes the cycle to fluctuate and affect the flow of blood.
Cramping after period. Am I pregnant?
There are cases when the menstrual flow happens for less than 48 hours and then stops leaving behind severe cramping in the abdominal region. This might be because the sperm has been there before the periods but the zygote attaches itself to the lining later, which causes periods to arrive, but disappear mid way. These cramps fade over 4-5 days.
Here, the chances of implantation are high if the bleeding has been there for less than two days. In case of spotting thereafter, the chances of pregnancy are pretty less.
Remedies for cramps after period or how to get rid of it
1. Pain killers
There are many medicines devised to reduce cramping post periods. However, since it is directly related to the reproductive system and might affect the next menstrual cycle, the advice is to consult a medical practitioner before consuming the medicine. Remember, do not consume the pain killers excessively or frequently, else the immune and reproductive system will get affected.
2. Heat pad application
At home using a hot towel or a hot water bottle on the cramping area helps ease the pain and in case there is spotting, there are improved chances of bleeding and reducing cramps. Since the method is external, it is the most suitable form for all ages.
When not at home, try using the simple heating pad that sticks to the abdomen to soothe cramping. Remember, do not apply cold water locally. This will cause sudden contraction of muscles, thus increasing the pain.
3. Changing postures
When cramping while sitting or sleeping in a place, try to stand, take a walk, and get back to the posture. Even when sleeping, change sides or try sleeping on the stomach so that the pain subsides. Switching postures regulates blood flow and reduces the pain in the abdomen.
4. Aroma oils
Aroma oils help in instant relaxation of muscles when inhaled during cramping. These have a soothing sensation on the senses and refresh the mind and body with the magical feeling. To use, apply a few drops of aroma oils on the pulse points and inhale when cramping begins to start.
5. Take a short walk
Instead of sitting at a place in the similar posture, try and take a small walk across the room. This will relax the cramping muscles and improve blood circulation, easing out the pain.
Preventive measures for cramps after period
1. Diet change
Eating foods high on calcium and potassium are easy to digest and strengthen the body. Consuming foods during cramps that are easy to digest will help in reducing the pain. In addition, avoid junk food, fried food, and street foods to keep the body in check. Include fruits, salads, and dark green and leafy vegetables in the diet to cure cramps.
2. Consumption of water
Water dilates the muscles and aids the body in normal functioning. When cramping, drink warm or regular water in sips, this will help relax and the pain will subside early. At the same time, drinking plenty of water during periods will help clear the blood flow smoothly and the problems post menstruation will be minimal.
3. Stretching exercises
Light stretching exercises for the body sides, abdominal area, arms, and shoulders help reduce cramping. When exercising, there is an increase in endorphin levels that are natural pain killers of the body. This helps the body to naturally calm down and reduce the pains associated with periods.
Make sure you exercise only to the levels the body permits. Excessive exercising may worsen the pain if the exact reason for the pain is not known.
4. Breathing exercises
Practice deep inhaling and exhaling by applying slight pressure on the abdominal region. Doing this during and before periods will relax the area and prevent any forthcoming problems in the region. Normal breathing exercises are also beneficial in maintaining hormonal balance in the body.
5. Massages
Massage the body to maintain proper blood circulation and hormonal balance. Blood circulation and hormonal balance are two major contributing factors to your wellness during periods. So relax yourself and take good care to have a happy period.
Several small changes when brought in regular life can make periods comfortable. So instead of running after remedies when the problems happen, give little time to yourself each day to keep a healthy mind and body.
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