Most women suffer each month from pain and discomfort during the period. This condition is also called dysmenorrhoea or painful menstruation. But can we deal with them?

The pains, initially, are located in the abdomen and pelvis during the period. They are considered normal and are unfortunately expected. In many cases, however, pain becomes so severe that it restricts the activity of the woman.

Dysmenorrhoea accounts for over 50% of women of childbearing age, with 5-7% experiencing severe symptoms requiring possible medical check-ups.

The reduction in the intensity of symptoms during the period can be achieved basically through nutrition, but also through exercise. In particular, a diet with limited amounts of sugar, salt, caffeine, and several proteins, seems to help. More severe cases may require taking anti-inflammatory or contraceptives s pills, but you need to consult your doctor.

There are several theories about the possible causes of period pains. The poor in vitamins diet, excessive caffeine consumption, smoking, as well as stress and lack of exercise proves to aggravate the pains. Therefore, regulating these factors can help to reduce the pain.

• Meat, dairy and soy products as well as fish are key sources of protein intake, so it is good to boost your body with these products, at least for the period.
• The hormones that cause cramps of dysmenorrhea in some cases cause contraction in the intestinal walls, causing diarrhea. So choose foods rich in soluble fiber such as cooked, vegetables, bananas and oats.
• Also, a relevant study proves that the high dose of vitamin D can also act as an anti-inflammatory, while omega-3 fats, found in oily fish such as salmon or sardines, also contribute to the reduction of pain.
• Heat also appears to be a means of alleviating pain. A warm, short bath can help reduce symptoms.
• Finally, systematic yoga training significantly reduces psychological and physical symptoms of dysmenorrhoea.

Sources of information: www. healthyliving.gr, www.onmed.gr

Aggeliki Koskeridou

Holistic Doctor – Counseling Psychotherapist

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

MSc c. Health Psychology

www.AggelikiKoskeridou.com

insta: dr_aggelikikoskeridou_official 

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