PMS Cramps - Natural Remedies for Mild to Moderate Pain

If you have PMS cramps, then you know how painful, uncomfortable, and embarrassing they can be. They can range anywhere from mildly uncomfortable to seriously painful, and even be accompanied by nausea and vomiting for some women.

While most doctors will prescribe pain medication, and in some cases even surgery, for these cramps, there are actually quite a few natural health remedies out there that could be beneficial in relieving mild to moderate premenstrual syndrome cramps.

Although they are commonly referred to as "stomach cramps", not all PMS cramps are located in the abdomen. In fact, if a woman has a tilted uterus, she might feel more pain in her lower back or even in her rectum than in her stomach. For that reason, remedies can vary, depending on where the pain is located.

Using heat is one of the most common natural remedies for PMS cramps. A hot water bottle or a heating pad can really take some of the pain off of the abdomen and lower back. You want to make sure that you are not placing the heat source directly onto your skin, however, so that you don't risk burning yourself.

Massage can be another good way of relieving premenstrual syndrome cramps naturally. There are some common trigger points on the body that can help relieve abdominal pain. These include the inner ankle and the wrist. Visiting a massage therapist, or asking a partner for a massage, can be a way to relieve mild to moderate cramps.

Either taking magnesium as a supplement, or eating foods that are rich in magnesium, such as leafy green vegetables and whole grains, can also be beneficial. Magnesium has been known to act as a natural pain reliever and can help reduce spasms in the uterus. However, it is important not to take too much magnesium, as it can lead to diarrhea and nausea, which could make the PMS cramps worse.

Omega 3 fatty acids have also been helpful, because they help stimulate prostaglandins, which help the uterus contract without the cramping. Fish oil tablets, found at most health food stores, that contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are the most beneficial.

Taking evening primrose oil and vitamin B6 in capsule form might also help as well. Both have been known to help with pain, in addition to helping fight nausea.

Preventive care can oftentimes be a good way to keep the PMS cramps from getting too bad. Taking your supplements several days before your period is about to start, as well as trying to forgo caffeine and dairy right before your period, can sometimes keep the cramps from being too painful.

Occasionally, PMS cramps can be symptoms of something more serious. If you experience heavy clotting, light-headedness, or strong cramps when you've never had them before in the past, then you should consult with your health care practitioner. Sometimes, strong cramps and heavy bleeding can be a sign of endometriosis and, in rare cases, an ectopic pregnancy.

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