Most women experience dysmenorrhea, or menstrual pain, on the first day or two of their menstrual cycle. Menstrual pain is caused by prostaglandins, hormone-like substances produced by the lining of the uterus. They cause inflammation, uterine contractions, and increased sensitivity of nerve endings to pain. While Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a condition occurring in some women 7 to 10 days before the onset of the menstrual flow. The symptoms include those of dysmenorrhea.

Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea:

• Depression
• Sharp pain in the abdomen
• Headaches
• Acne or Breakout
• Muscular cramps
• Water Retention
• Insomnia
• Abdominal Swelling
• Nervousness
• Fatigue
• Pain in the joints
• Vomiting
• Negative changes of personality

Causes of Dysmenorrhea and PMS:

• Menstrual pain is caused by prostaglandins, hormone-like substances produced by the lining of the uterus. They cause inflammation, uterine contractions, and increased sensitivity of nerve endings to pain.

• Another cause is hormonal imbalance which occurs due to the excessive level of estrogen in comparison to the progesterone level, in addition to a decrease of blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Treatments for Menstrual Pain:

• Intake of multi-vitamins and minerals; especially calcium and magnesium. Magnesium works to smoothen and calm the muscle.
• Take vitamin B complex to prevent nervousness and stress.
• A diet rich in fibers
• Daily exercise
• Reduced the amount of salt (it causes water retention) sugar, alcohol, caffeine, cigarette, red meats.
• Drink plenty of water, especially a glass or two of warm water first thing in the morning will help against constipation.
• Rub your abdomen and your back with warm lotion. This will help reduce inflammation and pain.