Adolescence is a tricky time for all girls as they go through a lot of physical transformations after menstruation. There are those lucky few for whom menstruation is a relatively painless process, but for others. Menstrual cramps cannot be brushed aside as there are some girls who experience painful menstrual cramps. It is definitely not so easy to deal with it for both the child and the parents.

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Dysmenorrhea is the term used to describe menstrual cramps and it is of two types:

• Primary dysmenorrhea: This is the pain that accompanies the very first period and usually continues for a lifetime. But in some, it may get better over time.
• Secondary dysmenorrhea: This usually occurs at a later time and is the result of some growth or infection.

Among teenagers, it is usually the primary dysmenorrhoea that is the cause of concern, especially when they experience painful menstrual cramps. The reason for such menstrual cramps is the overproduction of prostaglandin, a hormone-like chemical that causes the uterus muscles to contract and leads to inflammation that results in pain and cramping. The common symptoms of menstrual cramps are:

• Pain radiating down the legs
• Pain and cramps in the lower abdomen
• Lower back pain

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How to treat menstrual cramps

Primarily, an awareness among parents and children is what helps menstrual cramps. They need to have an understanding of menstrual cramps and should consult a healthcare provider if need be. The primary treatment includes:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen. In case of severe menstrual cramps, low dose oral contraceptives are given to prevent the production of prostaglandins.
• Heating pads that can be put on the lower abdomen for pain relief. You can also use a warm cloth or water bottle.
• Hot shower
• Lie down flat and put a pillow under your knees. You can even lie on your side and bring the knees to your chest to alleviate the pain.
  

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Natural remedies for menstrual cramps:

• Peppermint tea: A warm cup of this tea gives the desired relief from menstrual cramps.
• Raw papaya: It is very effective against menstrual cramps.
• Regular exercise: It releases endorphin, which acts as a natural painkiller.
• Proper sleep: 7 to 8 hours sleep is essential and beneficial.
• Ginger and cinnamon tea: Take an inch of a ginger piece. Crush it or slice it. Take a ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Heat a cup of water. Add these to the hot water and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off the flame and wait for another 2 minutes with a lid on it.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish (salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel etc.), fish oil or flax seeds have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Black cohosh: It is a herb that effectively treats menstrual cramps. You can take it raw or even in a dried form. The maximum dosage is 20-40 mg twice a day.
• Coriander seeds: They are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and they can be consumed raw or even boiled in water.

When your daughter is experiencing menstrual cramps, it is best to avoid red meat, refined sugar, caffeinated drinks, and commercial dairy products as they stimulate the production of prostaglandins.

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