WHAT IS MENSTRUATION?
Menstruation, also known as menses, period, or monthly cycle, is the monthly shedding of the lining of a woman’s uterus. It is a process that occurs monthly and prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. Blood from menstruation contains both tissues from the uterine wall which flows from the uterus to the cervix and out of the body through the vagina. The normal menstrual cycle can range in length from 21days to 35days. The pituitary gland located in the brain and ovaries located in the female reproductive tract is the main organs responsible for menstruation.
Usually, girls start menstruating at an average age of 12 years. However, some girls can begin as early as 8 years of age or as late as 16 years of age. Cessation of menstruation is known as menopause and it occurs at about the age of 51.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH MENSTRUATION.
● Moodiness
● Trouble sleeping
● Food craving
● Bloating
● Acne
● Tenderness
● Headache
● Mood swings
● Constipation
● Diarrhea
● cramps in the lower abdomen and back.
MENSTRUAL CRAMPS
Menstrual Cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea are painful sensations that affect a lot
of girls before or during menstruation. It can be either mild (primary cramps) or severe (secondary cramps). Secondary cramps occur before, during, or after menstruation, usually due to a medical problem such as; endometriosis, uterine fibroids, etc.
Although scientists are not sure why some girls experience menstrual cramps while others do not, There are some factors associated with severe menstrual cramps such as;
● being under the age of 20years.
● having heavy menstrual flow.
● having an overproduction of prostaglandin (an inflammatory hormone).
● menarche.
The discomfort experienced due to menstrual cramps is severe enough to affect one’s daily activities hence its importance to public health.
However, some methods can be used to reduce or relieve menstrual cramps. They are preferably used at home as home remedies.
SOME TIPS TO CURB PAINFUL MENSTRUATION.
Exercise
This is one of the most effective methods of reducing menstrual pain. It stimulates the release of endorphins (commonly known as the “feel-good” hormone). Endorphins are released from aerobic respiration due to increased respiratory rate. Jogging and Yoga are the most recommended exercise to relieve menstrual pain.
Heat Pad Application/Warm Bath
Application of heat increases circulation and, as a result, relaxes the muscle and relieves cramps. In absence of a heating pad, hot water in a rubber container can be placed in the lower abdomen for a few minutes. Heat pad application is an immediate method of relieving cramps.
Body Massage
Massaging generally increases blood circulation thereby reducing cramps.
Food Modification
Fruits are the most recommended during menstruation as they do not facilitate inflammation.
Foods that contain a high level of fat such as Avocados, Chips, Butter, Chocolate, etc should be avoided during menstruation. These foods stimulate the secretion of prostaglandins thereby increasing menstrual pain.
Sexual Pleasure
According to research, sexual pleasure stimulates the release of natural painkillers like dopamine and oxytocin. These painkillers act by blocking pain receptors in the brain thereby reducing pain.
Over The Counter (OTC) Drugs
Anti-inflammatory medication is the most effective method of relieving menstrual cramps. They act by inhibiting the action of prostaglandins.
It is important to emphasize that anti-inflammatory medications are also very harmful to the body especially when taken in large quantities hence these drugs should be taken with caution.
In summary, menstrual pain is a natural process and should not be considered abnormal. However, some precautions can be taken to reduce or cope with the discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
References
MayoClinic
Healthline
Wikipedia
ClavelandClinic
