5 Ways To Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Feeling the pain and looking for some sweet, sweet relief? Here’s our list of cramp fighting activities to calm an aching uterus.

1. Rest

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Pull out the sweatpants, lay down, and binge watch your favorite show between naps. You can also try a heating pad or hot bath.

2. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever

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Ok, so maybe downing a couple of pills isn’t as much fun as some of these other options, but it works. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the recommended dosage.

3. Exercise

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I salute anyone who’s willing to work out when feeling the pangs of a vengeful uterus, but it really can work wonders. Even simple exercises (like stretching or yoga) may help.

4. Birth Control

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For many people, hormonal birth control (like the IUD, implant, shot, pill, patch or ring) can also lessen the symptoms of painful periods. Talk to your nurse or doctor or contact your local Planned Parenthood health center to find a method that will bail you out of your period pain.

5. Orgasm

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The big O is an excellent pain reliever. So go to town to calm it down. Go to bed for cousin red. (OK, I’ll stop.) Just don’t forget to use protection, like birth control, condoms, and dams, if you want to bring a friend along with you.