PMS and period cramps? Hit pause for self-care
Two to three tablespoons of blood. Yep, that’s roughly what you shed during your period. How that feels? Depends who you ask. Some women are so bloated nothing fits, others slip easily into their skinny jeans. Some breeze through the day, others are curled up in bed, cramps taking over. What’s happening in your body during those days? And most importantly: what can you do to ease the pain?
According to research done by Radboud University, 85% of woman experience menstrual pain. Not surprising, but definitely frustrating – especially if you have PMS. In that case, the aches can kick in days or even weeks before your period. Here’s the quick science bit: as estrogen and progesterone drop, your uterine lining starts to shed. In the process, your body releases prostaglandins: chemical messengers that make your uterus contract. These cramps are like mini-contractions, though they can sometimes feel close to the real deal. Prostaglandins don’t just affect the uterus by the way, they can also influenc your intestines. The result? Diarrhea or constipation, adding to the discomfort in your stomach.
According to research by Radboud University, 85% of women experience menstrual pain, caused by prostaglandins that make the uterus contract. Period pain can range from abdominal to back pain or even radiate down the legs, and it often comes with fatigue and mood swings. Heat and simple self-care rituals – like a hot bath, a warm compress or our product (coming soon) – can bring welcome relief. Severe pain that interferes with daily life may be a sign of endometriosis and should be checked by a doctor. Intense cramps or a constant dull ache. Sharp stabs or a throbbing sensation. In your lower abdomen, your lower back, your pelvic floor or radiating down your legs. Menstrual pain can manifest in a wide variety of ways. Researchers at the American Cornell University found that women who produce more prostaglandins during menstruation experience more intense period pain. Prostaglandin levels peak right before and on the first day of bleeding. They gradually drop as the uterine lining is shed, reducing the pain.
“If the pain keeps you from functioning normally, it’s no longer considered a normal period.”
While some women hardly have stomach pain during their period, they may struggle with intense back aches. For others, the pain seems to move – stomach one day, back the next – or sometimes both strike at the same time. Blame it on prostaglandins, because these troublemakers loosen the ligaments supporting your hips and spine. This can cause your lower back to slump, resulting in painful pressure. Contractions of the uterus can also tighten your pelvic floor and lower back muscles, sometimes shooting pain down your legs. The nerves connected to the uterus overlap with those serving the lower back, hips and thighs – another reason why some women feel period pain in their back or legs rather than their abdomen. The cramping can be intense, but it’s not just that. Nearly three out of four women deal with fatigue and mood swings around their period. Zero energy, zero motivation, just… meh. That’s your cue to go extra easy on yourself. Heat can seriously help during your period and ovulation. It relaxes your muscles and even boosts endorphins – aka your body’s built-in painkillers. Think hot bath or steamy shower. No time to soak? That’s where our Belly Balm comes in. Specially made for your cycle, it gently warms your skin with natural ingredients like camphor, castor oil and peppermint. All the comfort, none of the hassle. Sweet relief, whenever – and wherever – you need it. In medical lingo, period cramps go by dysmenorrhea. Mild pain? Totally normal. But if it’s so bad that your daily life grinds to a halt, then something else might be at play. Gynecologist Veronique Serrarens, who runs the Menstruation Clinic at Elkerliek Hospital, explains: ‘If the pain keeps you from functioning normally, it’s no longer considered a normal period.’ One possible culprit: endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. For many women, menstruation is still a topic they don’t discuss openly, let alone the messy details. Maybe they don’t want to sound like they’re complaining, or they assume the pain is just part of the deal. Veronique Serrarens: ‘Many endure heavy bleeding or severe cramps for years before ever seeing a doctor. Such a shame, as there are many ways to reduce or even resolve menstrual issues.’ For most women, period pain is just a given – that monthly guest you didn’t exactly invite. But with a few small self-care rituals, your cycle can feel a whole lot kinder. The trick? Listen to your body and know when it’s time to hit pause and give yourself a little extra love.What causes period pain?
Why does my back hurt when I’m on my period?
Selfcare for menstrual cramps
What’s ‘normal’ period pain – and what’s not?
Hit pause