Menstrual cramps can be the bane of every woman—capable of taking even the strongest woman and quickly bringing to her knees writhing in pain. Unfortunately, there is really nothing you can do to eliminate all of the problems that your period brings other than waiting patiently for menopause to finally come (which brings a host of other problems). Nonetheless, the following tips should be able to help you at least manage your menstrual cramps to ensure that your period has as little impact on your life as possible.

Pay Attention to Your Diet

One of the most important things you can do to lessen menstrual cramps is to pay attention to what you eat. A diet that is low in saturated fat and high in vegetables is a good way to start. Studies have shown that a diet high in magnesium can help to minimize cramps, so it’s important to make sure you are getting your daily recommended amount of magnesium (approximately 320 mg) either through eating the proper foods or taking supplements.

Try Herbal Teas and Supplements

The chemicals found in some herbal teas and supplements can also help to lessen cramps. Both vitamin B1 and fish oil have been shown to be somewhat effective, while women have been using cramp bark tea to reduce the pain caused from cramps for thousands of years.

 

Use Essential Oils for Discomfort Relief

Applying essential oils straight to your lower back and abdomen can provide relief during your menstrual cycle. Peppermint, lavender, marjoram and clary sage are particularly effective, though results for specific oils may differ from woman to woman and even month to month. For the best results, this requires the use of pure, high-quality essential oils like doTERRA oils and other reputable manufacturers. Another trick you can try is massaging the oils in on a daily basis, beginning the day your period ends and continuing until the next one starts.

 

Up Your Endorphin Levels

Commonly referred to as happy hormones, endorphins are a chemical that provide a huge boost to your overall mood and happiness. While you probably don’t really feel like exercising during a debilitating bout of cramps, doing so could be one of the most effective ways of getting rid of them quickly. If you can’t find the energy to exercise, even doing a bit of stretching and light aerobics can go a long way towards lessening your discomfort.

Part of managing and lessening your cramps lies in acting before they arrive, which is why it’s important to pay attention to your diet throughout the month. Nonetheless, the tips above should provide some level of relief the next time you find yourself curled in a ball on your bed wishing your ovaries would die.