- Step-by-step massage
- 1. Apply the oil to the skin
- 2. Make circular movements
- 3. Make top-down movements
- Positions to relieve menstrual pain
- Reflexology against menstrual cramps
A good way to combat strong menstrual cramps is to do a self-massage in the pelvic area because it brings relief and a feeling of well-being in a few minutes. The massage can be performed by the person and lasts about 3 minutes, and the ideal is that a heated oil is used during the massage to obtain better results.
Menstrual colic, scientifically called dysmenorrhea, causes pain and discomfort in the pelvic area, days before and also during menstruation. Some women have other symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness and fainting. One of the most accepted theories is that, during the desquamation of the walls of the uterus, there is an excessive production of prostaglandins, which cause contractions of the uterus, which are so intense that they cause pain.
Treatment can be done with anti-spasmodic remedies, but massages, hot water bags, acupuncture and reflexology also achieve great results.
Step-by-step massage
Preferably, this massage should be performed lying down, but if this is not possible, the massage can be done by lying back in a comfortable chair. Before starting the massage, it is recommended to apply a hot water bag over the pelvic area for 15-20 minutes. Then, the following massage should be started:
1. Apply the oil to the skin
Vegetable oil should be applied lightly to the pelvic area, being careful not to apply too much force. It will decrease the tension in the abdominal muscles and promote pain relief.
2. Make circular movements
The massage should start with circular movements, around the navel always in a clockwise direction, to activate the circulation of the area. As possible, you should gradually increase the pressure, but without causing discomfort. It starts with soft touches, followed by deeper touches, with both hands.
3. Make top-down movements
After doing the previous step for about 1-2 minutes, move from the top of the navel downwards.
Positions to relieve menstrual pain
Some positions that help to combat menstrual cramps are lying on your side with your legs bent, in a fetal position for a few minutes.
Stretching exercises also bring relief from discomfort in the lower back region, so it is recommended to lie on your back and bend both legs, keeping your knees close to your chest for about 1 minute. Another recommended position is the Mohammedan prayer, which consists of kneeling on the floor, sitting on your heels, leaning forward keeping your arms and chest in contact with the floor.
To sleep it is advisable to lie on your side, with a cushion or pillow between your legs, and your knees flexed.
Check out some home remedies you can take to relieve this type of colic
Reflexology against menstrual cramps
Another way to relieve menstrual cramps is to use reflexology, which is a type of massage on certain points of the feet. To do this, just make small circular movements with your thumb on the following points of the foot:
To relieve menstrual cramps it is important to eat fresh fruits and vegetables and avoid caffeinated foods, such as coffee and chocolate, until menstrual cramps have been controlled.
Taking a Buscopan tablet also helps to fight colic, but this should only be done with medical knowledge, because when the woman suffers from very severe colic the gynecologist should observe, as in some cases the woman may have endometriosis. Learn more about how to identify endometriosis.
