Waarom helpt warmte tegen menstruatiepijn en krampen?

Why does heat help against menstrual pain and cramps?

|Bente Hagens

Period pain and cramps are a common discomfort that most women experience each month. Fortunately, there are several methods to relieve the pain. One of the most effective, popular, and natural remedies is applying heat.

Why is heat so effective?

blog heat against menstrual pain and cramps

When you use heat to reduce pain or cramps, it's called heat therapy. Besides applying heat to your abdomen, it's also often done on your lower back. This is a simple but effective way to reduce the pain and discomfort of menstrual cramps. This is because heat helps relax muscles . Applying heat dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow. This can reduce cramps and provide a feeling of comfort and relaxation during menstruation.

Using heat packs, hot water bottles, heat patches, or even a warm bath or shower can help increase blood circulation. This improved circulation can reduce pain, making you feel better during your period.

Heat can also stimulate the production of endorphins. Endorphins are known as "happiness hormones" and can act as natural pain relievers. Therefore, applying heat can not only relieve physical pain but also have a positive effect on your mental well-being during your period.

A comfortable menstrual panty to wear if you suffer from period pain or cramps is the high-waist hiphugger or the shaping high-waist hiphugger ; a very comfortable style. They are supportive, highly absorbent, and don't dig into your stomach.

Cold hands and feet

Besides using heat to relieve menstrual pain and cramps, some women may be extra sensitive to cold during their period. This can manifest as cold hands or feet, or a general feeling of being cold.

While heat therapy is a common method for reducing menstrual pain, it can also be helpful to pay extra attention to monitoring your body temperature. Wearing warmer clothing and avoiding cold environments can help you feel comfortable during your period.

What else helps against menstrual pain and cramps?

Besides heat therapy, there are other natural remedies that can help relieve menstrual pain and cramps.

  • Ginger tea : Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce menstrual pain. Drinking ginger tea during your period can have a calming effect.
  • Acupressure : By applying pressure to specific points on the body, acupressure can promote blood circulation and reduce pain. Trying simple acupressure techniques can provide natural relief. Be sure to carefully identify these points and avoid harming yourself.
  • Regular exercise : Doing regular exercise, such as light aerobics or yoga, can help reduce menstrual pain. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins and promotes a general sense of well-being.
  • Limit caffeine and sugar intake : Reducing caffeine and sugar intake can help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation, which in turn may help reduce menstrual pain.

It's important to remember that every body reacts differently, so it can be helpful to try different things. This way, you can discover which one works best for your individual needs. Combining heat therapy with these natural remedies can provide a natural solution for relieving menstrual pain and cramps.

Heat therapy is an effective and natural way to relieve menstrual pain. By relaxing muscles, improving blood circulation, and releasing endorphins, heat offers pleasant relief during menstruation. For women looking for alternatives, other natural remedies like ginger tea and acupressure can also be helpful. The key is to experiment and discover which methods work best for a comfortable and pain-free menstrual period. If these natural remedies don't help relieve pain and cramps, consult your doctor for more information.