Tips for Managing Period Pain and Irregularities

Finding relief from period pain and irregularities can be an exhausting journey, but you’re not alone as many women struggle with similar issues. Luckily, with the help of Dr. Wolowick and our whole team at MAIA Gynecology, you can finally receive the relief you deserve. Let’s take a look at why period pain and other menstrual issues occur and what you can do to alleviate that discomfort.

Understanding Period Pain and Menstrual Irregularities

Before you know how to treat a problem, it’s important to know what’s causing it. Period pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that stops you in your tracks. An irregular menstrual cycle can do the same. It can be difficult to prepare for your period and have supplies on hand when it doesn’t show up on a regular schedule.

Period pain is directly caused by the muscles and blood vessels in the uterus contracting or tightening during your period. As for irregular periods, there are many different causes, including certain medical conditions, stress, weight gain or loss, and certain medications.

Managing Period Pain and Menstrual Irregularities

While period pain and menstrual irregularities can be a pain (sometimes literally) to deal with, there are a few ways you can manage these uncomfortable symptoms.

Nutrition

A balanced diet plays a critical role in maintaining regular menstrual cycles. To ease period pain, incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, like berries, oily fish, and whole grains. Limit the amount of processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol you eat and drink, as these may worsen symptoms.

Exercise

Physical activity releases endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers. Light movements such as walking, yoga, or stretching can reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstruation. But avoid strenuous activity as it could lead to more pain. For some, a high level of activity can trigger severe cramping.

Medications

Medications can often be the most effective way to manage pain and menstrual irregularities. Over-the-counter pain medications can often be strong enough to alleviate most of the discomfort and pain. If the pain continues, prescription medication can be used as well.

For menstrual irregularities, oral birth control pills and other hormonal therapies are often a highly effective treatment. They adjust your hormones to ensure your period arrives at the same time each month and often make it much lighter and easier to deal with.

Schedule A Consultation

Coping with period pain and irregularities can be daunting, but help is available with Dr. Wolowick. As a board-certified OB/GYN, she’ll walk you through your options and ensure you have all the information you need to make the right decisions for your gynecological health. Take the first step to getting the relief you deserve and schedule a consultation at MAIA Gynecology today! Call our Downers Grove, IL office at 630-320-6703 or complete our online contact form.