Most women will experience period pains at some point in their life. While they can really put a dampener on your day it doesn’t mean that they have to cause you to miss out on life!

Read on for our guide on how to deal with those pesky monthly pains so that you can enjoy your life to the max!

Back to basics: The cause of the cramp?

Experiencing some pain and discomfort during ‘that time of the month’ is normal and is usually a result of a hormone called prostaglandins being released. These signal the muscles in the womb to contract, which assists in pushing the wombs lining out of the body. All women experience different degrees of pain during their period as we all have different pain thresholds. Whichever you experience, remember you’re not alone and adopting the steps below will mean you’ll live life to the fullest, no matter what time of the month it is.

How to deal

The most important thing you can do during menstruation is to relax. The more stressed you are the more likely your cramps will be severe. If you can’t skip school or work then try to wear comfortable clothing that allows for a bloated belly and a little water retention (all symptoms of having your period and totally normal).

Leg Up!

A common pain reliever is to lie comfortably on your back and prop your feet up on a few cushions. If that fails, then others suggest doing the exact opposite and lying in the foetal position.

Hot, Hot, Heat

Applying a hot water bottle, microwavable wheat bag or heating pad to your abdomen or snuggling up to a small animal, can all help alleviate pain. This is because heat is known to relieve muscle tension. If you can’t walk around school or work with a hot water bottle glued to your belly then consider wearing a heat patch, which can be worn discreetly under your clothing. When at home, why not lie in a relaxing bubble bath. This will not only help you relax but the warm water will reduce pain.

Move it!

We know it’s the last thing you feel like doing when Aunt Flo has come to town, but doing some MILD exercise really does help reduce cramping. We’re not saying run a marathon here, but do indulge in a yoga class or walk around your neighbourhood. It’s also great for venting any pent up frustration, which always seems to rear its head during this time of the month!

Pop a pill

Taking an anti-inflammatory painkiller can seriously reduce period pains and are a lifesaver at this time of the month. Taking vitamins B6, B1 and E, Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and magnesium supplements can help with bloating and pain.

What’s up Doc?

If, after trying all the above, you’re still experiencing excruciating cramps then it may be time to visit your GP. Severe cramps, we’re talking about the doubled over, unable to talk kind, can be a sign of something a little more serious and your doctor will be able to prescribe the right course of treatment for you.

Do you suffer from pesky period pains? Why not share your tricks and tips for dealing with them in our dedicated Tampax Beauty Diary, here