It's that time again: The period has started and a cramp-like pain in the abdomen spreads, which often radiates into the back. Unfortunately, this accompanying symptom of menstruation is not uncommon. Did you know that three out of four menstruating women have problems during their period? The most common accompanying symptom during menstruation is abdominal pain. Some experience it as a mild side effect, while others feel restricted in their everyday lives by severe pain. However, abdominal pain is not something you just have to endure. In addition to rest and warmth, a gentle massage relieve the pain and ensure more relaxation. We'll show you how. ​​

Unfortunately, menstrual cramps are common for many menstruating women. The symptoms range from headaches and general malaise to nausea. The most common accompanying symptom during menstruation, however, is period pain, also known as “dysmenorrhea”. Period pain can already occur after a fewdays before the period and even up to two or threedays after the period. But what does menstrual pain feel like? This can vary from person to person. For some people, the pain is dull or cramping and for others rather throbbing or stabbing Period pain can be limited to the abdomen alone, but it often doesn't stop there. Many menstruating women experience not only abdominal pain during their period, but also back or leg pain. The cramp-like pain can then also trigger nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Headaches and migraines are also common.

You may be wondering what causes period cramps. Generally, at the beginning and during menstruation, the Hormone balance in the body changed. In thedays Before the period, certain pain messengers, so-called Prostaglandins , is released. This stimulates the uterus to contract. While this process is useful for removing the unfertilized egg, it can sometimes cause severe pain for menstruating people. In this case, it is primary period pain. The hormone prostaglandin often sends a signal not only to the uterus to increase activity, but sometimes also to the deep muscles, fascia and connective tissue in the abdomen, legs, back, neck, and head area. This in turn can then, as already explained above, lead to cramps and discomfort in the affected areas.

In the case of secondary period pain, however, the cause is different.Benign tumors of the uterus, such as myomas or polyps, can cause pain. If you have severe pain, this can also be an indication of endometriosis, which should definitely be checked by a doctor. More information on Endometriosis you can also find out in our  Blog post in addition.

There are several ways you can get relief from your abdominal pain. One of the most effective things you can do is Massage the affected area . The effect of massages as a natural pain relief in contrast to tablets is often underestimated. For an effective abdominal massage you do not even need much: a massage oil, a delicate touch and a little time. For additional pain relief you can add a few drops to your neutral oil. essential chamomile oil add. If you didn't know: Chamomile not only relieves pain, but also has an antispasmodic effect. Its pharmaceutical properties were already known to the Romans and ancient Egyptians. We will now explain to you how to best massage your abdomen so that the massage also has a soothing effect and ensures relaxation of your abdomen.​​

Take about ten minutes and get into a relaxed position. Start by stroking several times gently over your abdominal wall . Then massage your abdomen by placing your hand flat on the abdomen with slight pressure between the chest and pubic bone stroke lengthways and crossways six times each. Your thumb points towards your navel and your fingertips point downwards. At the end of the routine, make six circular movements in a clockwise direction. Take your time with the sequence and repeat it until about ten minutes have passed. Then feel into your body and enjoy a few relaxed breaths while you place both hands on your stomach again. While back massages usually require a lot of force, make sure to use little to no pressure during an abdominal massage. If you have performed the massage as described, the muscles in your uterus should relax after just a few minutes and back pain can also subside.

In addition to pain relief, abdominal massages contribute to Improve digestion and the general relaxation of your body. During their period, many menstruating women feel bloated and have a sluggish bowel. The gentle massage of the abdomen relaxes on the one hand and brings movement back into the digestive system on the other. It is not just the muscles that benefit: you stimulate the entire metabolism and blood circulation to peak performance with targeted massage. Your body also Happiness hormones and relieves stress. The positive side effects of the gentle kneading technique therefore help you to have less pain and more well-being overall.

In addition to the gentle abdominal massage, a Foot reflexology massage can work wonders. Targeted massage of the foot reflex zones can stimulate or calm organs.By massaging the corresponding reference zones on the foot, Abdominal cramps relieved When suffering from menstrual cramps, it is important to massage the zones for the urogenital tract and the lymphatic zone of the abdomen. The corresponding zones are located along the Achilles tendons. You should therefore gently massage the area above your inner and outer ankle up to the heel bone.

Also  Acupressure  can help with menstrual pain. With this technique from traditional Chinese medicine, you activate specific parts of the body. This reduces false signals in the body that cause excessive muscle tension and pain. Points that promise relief from menstrual pain are located one hand's width below the belly button and two finger widths above the pubic bone. Another point is located between the thigh and groin. You should  several times a day for 15 to 30 seconds  You will be surprised how quickly you notice the first positive effects.

Tip: If you use massages or acupressure regularly, you can monitor your symptoms and progress using a paindays book document.

Period products that have to be inserted (e.g. tampons) can cause or worsen menstrual pain. We therefore recommend that you  Period underwear  or  washable pads  You can find our products in different absorbency levels, so you can easily choose them depending on the intensity of your period. Of course, all of our products are also vegan and free from biocides.

As is well known,  warmth  help relieve cramps. If you have our  Heat belt  If you don't know it yet, you should definitely try it out. Thanks to the Velcro fastener, you can apply the heat where you need it. This way, you can not only relieve your period pain, but also back pain. 

If you suffer from abdominal pain or other complaints regularly and over a longer period of time during your period, it is advisable to consult a specialist to determine the cause. This is the only way to provide targeted treatment for your menstrual problems.