Nearly every woman at some point in her life experiences a menstrual cycle. If you’re experiencing cramping, PMS, or any other menstrual symptoms, this is for you! Dr. Holly is passionate about helping women in this area and desires to share some insights into what you can do to balance your body and potentially prevent these issues in the future. And if you’re currently dealing with period-related discomfort, there are some quick fixes for you too!
Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
Let’s start by understanding what’s happening inside your body during your menstrual cycle. Your body goes through a series of hormonal changes, with some levels increasing while others decrease. This dance of hormones is all about preparing your body for a potential pregnancy. Just before your period, your body is getting ready to support a fertilized egg. It builds up the uterine lining, increases blood flow, and adds extra tissue to create a nurturing environment. However, if fertilization doesn’t occur, these hormone levels start to drop, and your body begins to shed the excess blood and tissue. If you’re someone who doesn’t experience regular periods, it’s crucial to address this as it’s an essential part of maintaining overall health.
Addressing Period Pain and Cramps
Now, let’s tackle the issue of painful cramps during your period. While cramps are common, they shouldn’t be considered normal. The key is to prepare your body in the month leading up to your period to reduce inflammation and prevent excessive discomfort. Here’s what you can do:
1. Watch Your Diet: Pay attention to your nutrition. Reduce your intake of sugar, gluten and dairy, as these can contribute to inflammation. Opt for an anti-inflammatory diet to help keep swelling and discomfort in check.
2. Cruciferous Vegetables: Incorporate plenty of cruciferous vegetables into your diet. These greens are rich in B vitamins and iron, which support the methylation process and phase two conjugation in your liver, helping your body detoxify and reduce inflammation.
3. B Vitamins: Consider adding high-quality B vitamins to your supplement regimen, especially B1, B6, and B12. These vitamins play a vital role in various bodily processes, including hormonal balance.
4. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening your pelvic floor can make a significant difference. These exercises help maintain spine alignment and nervous system balance during your period.
Immediate Relief for Period Pain
If you need immediate relief from PMS or period cramps, here are some quick tips to try:
1. Chiropractic Adjustment: A chiropractic adjustment can realign your spine and nervous system, potentially alleviating pain.
2. Heat Therapy: Applying heat, whether through a heated pack or a CBD topical cream, can help relax your abdominal muscles and ease discomfort.
3. Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as lavender, Clary Sage, or marjoram, applied to your pelvic area, may help soothe cramping muscles.
Remember, your menstrual health is an integral part of your overall well-being. If you’re experiencing persistent issues, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance. We are here to help you!
If you would like more information on how to receive these tests and plans, please contact our office via email, phone, or in person.