Over-The-Counter Remedies To Help With Period Cramps

The use of TENS devices — providing transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation — was listed by nearly all of our experts as a safe and effective pain management method. According to Landry, these muscle stimulators are a noninvasive, affordable and medicine-free option that can be worn discreetly under clothing, and they have done wonders for her patients.

“TENS involves attaching electrodes to the painful areas on your abdomen or lower back. The electrodes deliver small electrical currents to the body, which you’ll feel as a tingling, vibrating or muscle-twitching sensation,” Landry said. “We believe that the device works by altering the body’s ability to receive and perceive pain signals, rather than having a direct effect on uterine contractions.”

With over 7,000 five-star Amazon ratings, this particular unit offers 10 levels of intensities and six stimulation patterns, such as massaging and kneading functions. People with certain cardiac and health conditions may not be able to use a TENS device and should speak with their doctor first.

The application of heat can do amazing things for reducing cramps, according to Dr. Monica Grover, a double board-certified gynecologist based in New York and the chief medical officer at VSPOT, a women’s sexual health and wellness medispa.

“Whether through a heating pad or heated patch, [heat] is one of the best ways to relieve period cramps,” Grover told HuffPost. “[It] helps promote blood flow, increases circulation and delivers that much-needed oxygen to your abdominal muscles. By helping relax your muscles, heating pads act as a natural way to relieve pain and pressure.”

In addition to heat, this pad is weighted with an even layer of glass beads to provide a comfortable compressive element. You can choose from nine different heat levels, set an automatic shut-off time and machine-wash the entire soft flannel pad once you’ve detached the cord.

“When it comes to treating cramps and painful periods, medications are usually the first step,” Swarup said. “NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are effective at lessening the effects of prostaglandins and making the cramps less painful.”

He added that common NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen are easily available over the counter. Individuals with certain bleeding disorders, stomach ulcers, kidney disease or asthma should talk to their doctor before taking NSAIDs.

In addition to heat, lower back massage can be highly effective in managing period pain, according to Landry.

This hands-free and battery-operated band wraps around your abdomen to provide lumbar support, soothing warmth and vibrational massage for targeted relief. You can choose from three different heat and massage settings and enjoy a run time of three to four hours per charge.

“While exercising with cramps may sound like torture, research shows that aerobic workouts like jogging, biking, swimming and walking release endorphins that are your body’s natural painkillers,” Landry said.

These moisture-wicking period leggings from Thinx are great for yoga, jogging or even running errands. The absorptive gusset lining offers moderate protection and can hold up to three regular tampons’ worth of fluid, while also helping to reduce odor and keep you feeling fresh and dry. The leggings also have two exterior pockets on the hips and an internal abdominal pocket for holding a heating pad.

Both Landry and Swarup said that although there isn’t nearly enough research available to confirm their effectiveness for all people who try them, supplements like vitamin B complexes and magnesium may be helpful.

As is the case with all supplements, speak with your medical professional before using and, according to Landry, avoid vitamin B6 doses above 100 milligrams daily, as anything greater has the potential to cause nerve damage.