If you frequently experience severe symptoms every month during your menstrual cycle, then you are not alone. Around 80% of women indicate that they feel some sort of pain during menstruation, and between 5% and 10% of women say that the pain is so severe that it stops them from completely normal activities when they have their period. However, if you are a woman who feels like you need to stop doing the things you enjoy for at least one week every month, then you should know that there are some natural ways to soothe your discomfort.  

Consider Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional form of Chinese medicine that involves placing pressure on certain acupressure points of the body with needles. The treatment is utilized to help individuals with physical, mental, and emotional ailments. When it comes to treating menstrual discomfort, acupuncture helps to increase blood flow throughout the abdominal region. This brings oxygen and nutrients to the region to help reduce muscle stress, and cramping is reduced in the process. 

Be prepared to have needles placed in the abdominal region during your acupuncture appointment. The acupoints that will be utilized are called the mansion cottage, rushing door, sea of energy, and gate origin points near the pelvis and belly button. As you lie on your stomach, points along the base of the spine will receive pressure as well.

It is wise to seek treatment for menstrual pain when your period first starts, because the benefits of acupuncture will last a short period of time and hopefully reduce symptoms throughout your entire period. If this is not the case or if pain relief does not last as long as you like, then think about investing in electroacupuncture where a small amount of electrical current is forced through the steel acupuncture needles. Contact a local provider, such as one from Relief Acupuncture, for further assistance.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Your diet can both cause menstrual pain and relieve it. If you experience an abundance of cramps, then you may be eating a variety of foods that cause inflammation in the body. These foods can cause cramping during the period due to the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. Dairy foods, alcohol, sugar, and processed fats can all cause inflammation problems. Avoid these foods during your period.

Instead of eating pro-inflammatory foods, consume items that help to relax the muscles. Magnesium is one nutrient that can assist with this, and foods like spinach, kale, sesame seeds, almonds, and fish contain a good amount of this nutrient. Calcium also relaxes the muscles and helps to prevent menstruation cramps. However, since dairy foods can cause inflammation, consider eating calcium rich and dairy free foods like tofu, bok choy, okra, broccoli, peas, and almonds. 

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