Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen. Many women experience menstrual cramps just before and during their menstrual periods. For some women, the discomfort is merely annoying. For others, menstrual cramps can be severe enough to interfere with everyday activities for a few days every month.

The pain and cramping is most commonly caused by a massive release of prostaglandins at the beginning of your period. This causes inflammation and then cramps. The cramping may extend to the lower back and legs and can be accompanied by headache, nausea, diarrhea or constipation. 

Other causes of painful periods include heavy bleeding, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis. It is always recommended that you meet with your doctor to rule out any of these other disorders which may be causing your painful periods. Once more serious causes are ruled out, this is typically a fairly simple matter to correct.

Natural relief

In most cases, symptoms are relieved by nonprescription medications such as naproxen or ibuprofen to treat the inflammation caused by the release of the prostaglandins as your period begins.

We recommend a natural option, instead of ibuprofen or naproxen, that can help correct the painful periods. Supplementing with fish oil capsules can prevent the inflammation and cramps caused as the period starts. If you are also having symptoms of PMS, spotting, heavy bleeding or irregular cycles, you may also benefit from Progesterone.

If you’re ready to do something about your painful periods, the fastest and easiest way to determine what you need to solve your specific problem is to fill out the Women's Wellness Questionnaire below.