Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea) – Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Natural Treatment
It is the pain or discomfort (cramps) during or just before a menstrual period.

Symptoms of Menstrual Cramps
- Abdominal cramps
- Pain confined to lower abdomen
- Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea
- Headache, constipation
- Tenderness in breast, swollen abdomen
- General stiffness, back-ache, moist skin
- Fast heart Rate, anxiety
Causes of Menstrual Cramps
- Fear, Tension, Hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroid
- Infection of uterus lining, fallopian tubes or ovaries
- Miscarriage, Smoking, Low calcium diet
- Ovarian cyst, Intra uterine device
- Cessation of oral contraceptive pills
- Alcoholism, Psychogenic, Irregular period
Natural Treatment for Menstrual Cramps
Herbs & Supplements for Menstrual Cramps
- Jatamansi
- Brahmi
- Pippali
- Shatavari
- Guggulu
Mind & Body Approach
- Pranayamas
- Bhramari
- Nadi Shodhna
- Ujjayi
Aasnas
- Vajra Aasna
- Shashanka Aasna
- Bhujang Aasna
- Sarvang Aasna
- Siddha yoni Aasna
- Abdominal breathing in shava
- Chakr Aasna
Relaxation Therapy
- Yoga Nidra
- Meditation
Diet in Menstrual Cramps
Do’s:-
- Light vegetarian diet
- Fruits, Grains
- Calcium supplements
- Iron enriched diet
- Lightly cooked foods, raw vegetables
Don’ts:-
- Meat, Coffee
- Soft drink, Alcohol
- Processed & artificial foods
- Junk foods
Prevention for Menstrual Cramps
- Regular exercise
- Smoking, Hot bath
- Placing heat pad on abdomen.