Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps)
Common Symptoms
- Aching pain in the abdomen and/or across the low back (can be severe at times)
- Feeling pressure in the abdomen
- Sometimes pain is reported in the hips and inner thighs
- Upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea
Causes of Menstrual Cramps
Common (primary) menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus that occur during a woman’s period. Secondary cramping can be caused by a number of reproductive concerns, including:
- Endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows in outside the uterus
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Fibroids, which are growths on the inner walls of the uterus
- Scarring or narrowing of the cervix (the lower part of the uterus)
- IUDs (intrauterine devices used for birth control)
If you are experiencing abdominal pain and cramping for more than a few days right before or during your period, you should consult your doctor to rule out the above conditions.
Tips for Reducing Common Cramps
- Watch your diet. Diets high in animal fats and sugar cause more inflammation in the body, which can result in more painful periods.
- Try heat. A hot water bottle, heating pad or warm bath can help alleviate symptoms.
- Exercise. Aerobic exercise and stretching exercises like yoga have been shown in studies to soothe cramps.
- Take fish oil and vitamin B1. Research has shown that this combination both reduces the pain of menstrual cramps and lessens their duration.
Treatment Options
The Naturopathic physicians at Desert Wellness Center are well-versed in using safe, effective, natural treatments for menstrual cramps. We will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that might include:
- Homeopathy
- Nutritional Supplementation
- Nutritional Counseling and Testing
- Hormone Rebalancing
Get expert care for Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps) at Desert Wellness Center — one of Tempe’s leading integrative health centers.
Desert Wellness Center in Tempe, AZ, brings you a team of experienced and caring naturopathic physicians offering coordinated care across multiple specialties.
Whether you have a chronic health condition or unexplained symptoms, we believe you are more than just the numbers on your lab results. We will dig deep to uncover the root cause and help you achieve a happier and healthier life.
Our physicians maintain a culture of quality and choice. We put you in control of your healthcare while educating you on your options. Our patient care coordinators are available to answer all of your questions and guide you in getting started today.
We invite you to book a free 15-minute consultation to learn how we can help.
Naturopathic & Integrative Medicine Services
Naturopathic medicine is a holistic approach that uses natural therapies whenever possible and medications whenever needed— to heal the body from the inside out.