Menstrual Cramps & Changes

Symptoms of menstrual pain and changes

During peri-menopause women’s periods and menstrual cycle can change dramatically.  Some symptoms experienced may be:

• Heavier periods
• Periods lasting for a longer time
• Spotting in between periods
• Shorter menstrual cycles
• PMS related symptoms
• Period cramps with no accompanying period

What causes these changes?

The changes in menstrual cycles and symptoms are caused by the fluctuation of oestrogen and progesterone. These are the hormones responsible for the regulation of the menstrual cycle.

Ways to manage these changes

Track your cycle

Keeping a track of your menstrual cycle and any accompanying symptoms is important should you wish to seek further medical help.

Exercise

Although it may be the last thing on your list, exercise can be beneficial for menstrual pain.

Have a Warm Bath

Relaxing in a warm bath can sometimes provide instant relief from menstrual pain.  It’s a perfect time for some self-care.

Warm Compress

Applying a warm compress to your abdomen or lower back may also provide relief from the pain.

Supplements

When period pain hits it can be incredibly painful.  Paracetamol can help when the pain is at its worse or there are numerous supplements which may help.

Evening primrose oil is good for menstrual pain, try Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300 mg, a good quality supplement.

Red Clover is another herbal supplement that is also good for menstrual pain.  Tests have shown that red clover contains isoflavones which are plant based chemicals that contain oestrogen like effects in the body, therefore helping with hormone reductions.  Solgar Red Clover Flower and Leaf Extract is a good quality supplement that produces their product from naturally sourced ingredients.

Magnesium has been called the ‘spark of life’ and plays an important role with our sleep, muscle pain, menstrual cramps, headaches and mood. Unfortunately, it’s tricky to get your daily intake just from food so you may choose to take a supplement.

Nutri Advanced provides a wide range of magnesium products such as Megamag Night formula, MegaMag Calmeze and Megamag Muscleze,  each product targets a specific need, which provides a high potency and supports the female hormone balance.

If you aren’t taking any supplements and feel you would rather go for a multi vitamin, then Solgar VM Prime is a great option, as it has been specifically designed for women over 50.  Alternatively Nutri Advanced Multi Vitamin for Women is another good multi vitamin, which helps to support hormone balance.

Always check with your GP before taking supplements, especially if you are on any medication. 

CBD

Good quality CBD products can provide great relief for women experiencing menopausal symptoms including menstrual pain.

Help from a GP

Speaking to your GP with regards to your menstrual changes and symptoms can help.  They may be able to offer some options for other types of relief such as the Mirena Coil or medication and there’s also the option of HRT that you could discuss.