What helps with period cramps? The pros weigh in

Shot of a young woman experiencing period cramps while lying on a sofa at home. What helps with period cramps?

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last updated 13 June 2022

What helps with period cramps? Thankfully, a lot of things. Consider the news music to our ears!

Though Aunt Flo's visit is typically unwelcome, there's no reason to fear period pains and symptoms. We spoke to the experts—nutritionists, gynos, fitness instructors and so on—to help you make it through the most difficult time of the month effortlessly. Cramps, be damned!

What helps with period cramps?

1. Sex

We figured we'd get your attention early on with a promising tidbit: a little friskiness goes a long way when you're menstruating. Whether you're riding solo or with a partner, science has proven that sex and orgasms help reduce period pain, and, really, who are we to argue with data?

Check out our tips for "menstrubation" (yes, it's exactly like it sounds) and the best sex positions for menstrual cramps. If you're going to get rid of the terrible feeling in your lower abdomen, might as well make it enjoyable!

2. Exercise

Should you work out during your period? Absolutely, though you might want to think about adjusting your typical routine a bit.

"Choosing to slow down and focus on something like yoga or swapping out some high-intensity moves with more stretch and mobility can be a good idea," says fitness coach Lauren Leavell. "Movement can help with cramps but it is also totally fine to not exercise and take a break!"

Well, if you're going to twist our arm...

3. Relaxation

Well, since we've been told to relax, why not? Get your Netflix queue in order and prepare to enjoy some TLC.

"Stress is the number one factor for aggravating difficult menstrual symptoms as it interferes with our hormones and can deregulate our cycle," says Unfabled's Hannah Samano. "Finding ways to take the pressure off and give ourselves a breather is so important."

She suggests sipping some turmeric tea, and we suggest perusing the best meditation apps to help get you in a ~zen~ mindset.

4. Heat therapy

"Warmth helps relax the muscles that contract as the uterus sheds its lining and the increased blood flow to the area caused by applying heat is also thought to act as a natural painkiller," Samano adds. "A hot water bottle, a warm bath or heat patches that can be applied under clothes will all help to provide relief."

Not only does heat therapy allow you to get rid of the horrid cramps, but it also gives you an excuse to relax and catch up on some TV. (Don't pretend you aren't curious about the Love Island UK couples!)

5. Healthy eating

Though we're always up for a bowl of ice cream, sometimes we have to be mindful of what we're eating while on our period.

"Green vegetables are a great source of magnesium which plays a role in over 600 processes in the body and is particularly important in supporting mood, anxiety, stress and relaxation," says nutritionist Jenna Hope.

Hope also recommends increasing calcium intake while on your period and limiting the caffeine. We think the best time to drink coffee is 24/7, but in an effort to make positive changes, we'll limit our usual 16 cups per day to one when Aunt Flo visits.

Close up of woman's hand holding a bowl of fresh beef cobb salad, serving on the dining table. Ready to enjoy her healthy and nutritious lunch with coffee. Maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet. Healthy eating lifestyle

6. Medicine or supplements

The typical treatments for cramps include anti-inflammatory painkillers, hormonal contraception and supplements, including Ginger, Magnesium, Zinc and Vitamin B1, according to Clue’s Chief Medical Officer Lynae Brayboy, M.D.

One thing's for certain, Brayboy always suggests speaking with a medical professional for introducing your body to new medicines or supplements.

7. Take notes

"One of the tools I have used to help during this time is to keep notes on how I'm feeling and to pay attention to my body, but I always keep moving," says Temitope Nuga London-based personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach and PT with A Body Forever.

Explore period tracker apps, like Clue, to make note of what you're feeling and how you deal with it.

Yellow Notebook and Coffee Mug on Work Desk

While we are always in favor of wallowing over a sad movie, Ben & Jerry's at hand, there's no need to fall victim to the typical period stereotype. You can beat your cramps with a few healthy changes.

"If your period pain, heavy flow or PMS symptoms are having an impact on the way you live your life, don’t suffer in silence,' says Rachel Grocott of Bloody Good Period. "There are many things medical professionals can support you with and you should contact your local GP to discuss these options."

We told you cramps wouldn't stand a chance!

Need a TV show recommendation? Maybe a few decor tips? Danielle, a digital news writer at Future, has you covered. Her work appears throughout the company’s lifestyle brands, including My Imperfect Life, Real Homes, and woman&home. Mainly, her time is spent at My Imperfect Life, where she’s attuned to the latest entertainment trends and dating advice for Gen Z.

Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids, where she got to experience the best of the city from the point of view of its littlest residents. Before that, she was a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, and amNewYork, to name a few.

When Danielle’s not writing, you can find her testing out a new recipe, reading a book (suggestions always welcome), or rearranging the furniture in her apartment…again.