What woman doesn't want to look tall and slender? Whether curvy or petite, every woman has a few pairs of leggings in her wardrobe. Women universally agree that slipping into leggings instantly makes them feel more confident and put-together.
However, it's important to note that while leggings are comfortable and stylish, they shouldn't be worn year-round. Prolonged compression of the lower body by tight pants or tights can lead to various health issues! One such issue is the exacerbation of menstrual cramps and period discomfort.
Many women opt for leggings during their period to reduce leakage risks. Yet overly tight pants compress the lower abdomen, impairing blood circulation and potentially worsening menstrual cramps and discomfort.Additionally, the friction from tight pants against the delicate perineum can cause congestion and swelling. The snug, sealed environment also promotes bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infections.
So, what can women with menstrual cramps do?
1. Avoid diuretics
Many women believe diuretics can reduce menstrual bloating and discomfort. However, diuretics flush out essential minerals along with fluids. Instead, reduce intake of substances like salt and alcohol that cause water retention.
2.Stay warm
Keeping warm accelerates blood circulation and relaxes muscles, especially in the cramped and congested pelvic area. Drink plenty of hot water, apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to the abdomen for several minutes at a time, or use moxibustion on the lower abdomen.
3. Take a mineral bath
Add 1 cup of salt and 1 cup of baking soda to the bathtub.Soak in warm water for 20 minutes to help relax muscles and ease menstrual cramps.
4. Exercise
Especially before your period starts, walking or other moderate exercise can make you feel more comfortable during menstruation.
5. Practice Yoga Poses
Yoga also has a soothing effect. Try kneeling with bent knees and sitting on your heels.Keep your forehead on the floor and arms straight alongside your body. Hold this position until discomfort arises.
6. Take Pain Relief Medication
When cramps begin, take pain medication with milk or food. Effective pain relievers take effect within 20-30 minutes and provide up to 12 hours of pain relief.
What should you eat for menstrual cramps?
For menstrual cramps, focus on light, easily digestible foods 3-5 days before your period. Choose foods that are easy to digest and absorb, avoiding overeating.
What should you eat for menstrual cramps?
For 3-5 days before menstruation, focus on light, easily digestible foods. Consume easily absorbed meals without overeating. Avoid raw or cold foods, as they can stimulate uterine and fallopian tube contractions, triggering or worsening cramps.
Once menstruation begins, strictly avoid all raw, cold, hard-to-digest, and irritating foods such as chili peppers, raw onions, raw garlic, pepper, and strong alcohol. During this period, patients may moderately consume sour foods like pickled vegetables or vinegar, as sour flavors can help alleviate pain.
Additionally, whether before or after menstruation, those with dysmenorrhea should maintain regular bowel movements.Consume more honey, bananas, celery, sweet potatoes, etc., as constipation can trigger or intensify menstrual pain. Vitamin Supplementation Many patients experience significantly reduced menstrual pain after daily intake of adequate vitamins and minerals. It is recommended to take a multivitamin and mineral supplement, preferably low-dose and calcium-containing, divided into several doses per day.
Supplementing with minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium can also help alleviate menstrual pain.
Experts have found that women who take calcium experience less menstrual pain than those who do not. Magnesium is also important because it helps the body absorb calcium effectively. Consider increasing your intake of calcium and magnesium before and during your period.