Menstrual Cramps
Symptoms:
Most women experience menstrual cramps. Symptoms include dull or throbbing pain in your lower abdomen, pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs, nausea and vomiting, loose stools, sweating and dizziness.
Causes:
During menstrual periods, the uterus contracts to help expel its lining. If the uterus contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels, cutting off oxygen supply to the muscle tissue of the uterus.
Self-Care:
- Use heat (heating pad, hot water bottle, hot bath) to relax tense muscles and relieve cramping
- Exercise
- Get plenty of rest
- Herbal teas (chamomile, mint, raspberry, and blackberry) may help soothe tense muscles and anxious moods
- Empty your bladder as soon as you feel the urge to urinate
- Take aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen as recommended
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/menstrual-cramps/DS00506
http://www.webmd.com/Women-Medical-Reference/menstrual-cramps