What is the treatment for menstrual cramps?
Regular exercise may help, as well as following the same diet recommended for PMS. During episodes of cramps, hot baths, moderate amounts of herbal teas, heating pads, and massage of sore muscles have helped some women. Avoid getting upset and increasing the stress in your life, since tension can make cramps worse. There are some medicines that block the formation and action of prostaglandins. If your periods are regular and your cramping is severe, taking one of these medications before the onset of cramps may ease the symptoms. They are also very effective if taken when the first symptoms appear. Here are four drugs that have been approved for the relief of cramps: • Aspirin – 2 or 3 tablets every 4 hours • Ibuprofen – 400 or 600 milligrams every 6 to 8 hours • Naproxen (Aleve) – 220 to 440 milligrams every 12 hours • Mefenamic acid – prescription only Some of the over-the-counter names for ibuprofen are Nuprin, Advil, and Midol 200. It is also available with a prescription under the
