Does Exercise Help Period Cramps?

As anyone who has experienced menstrual cramps can attest, they can be painful and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are a variety of remedies that can provide relief, including exercise. But does exercise actually help with painful period cramps? Let’s explore the relationship between exercise and menstrual cramps relief, more specifically the benefits and the types of exercise that may help. 

relationship between exercise and menstrual cramps relief

Can you work out on your period? Although the scientific research on the relationship between exercise and menstrual cramps relief has been mixed, there is evidence to suggest that exercise can help alleviate menstrual cramps. Studies have found that regular exercise can help reduce menstrual pain. Additionally, other research has found that certain types of exercise, such as yoga, can provide relief from painful menstrual cramps and improve overall mood.

It is important to note, however, that the effectiveness of exercise for menstrual cramps relief may vary depending on individual factors, such as the severity of the cramps and the individual's overall fitness level. For some people, exercise may not provide significant relief from painful menstrual cramps, while for others it may be an effective natural remedy.

Despite the mixed research findings, exercise remains a popular and accessible method for menstrual cramps relief. Exercise has many additional health benefits, such as improving cardiovascular health, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving overall mood. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine may be a beneficial approach for those looking to alleviate menstrual cramps and improve overall health and well-being.

benefits of exercise for menstrual cramps relief

Exercise can help to increase blood flow and release endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. This can help to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and provide relief from other menstrual symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

In addition to providing relief from menstrual cramps, exercise has a variety of other benefits for health. Regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Exercise can also help to improve mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep quality.

types of exercise for menstrual cramps relief

There are two main types of exercise that are recommended for menstrual cramps relief: low-impact exercises and high-impact exercises. Low-impact exercises such as yoga and walking are gentle on the body and can help to increase blood flow and release endorphins — and they also double as exercises used for postpartum urinary incontinence. High-impact exercises such as running and aerobics can also be effective for menstrual cramps relief, but they can be more intense and may not be suitable for everyone.

Recommended exercise routines for menstrual cramps relief may vary depending on individual preferences and fitness levels. However, a combination of low-impact and high-impact exercises can be effective for reducing menstrual period pain and other menstrual symptoms. People who are new to exercise or who have health conditions that may be affected by exercise should consult their healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine.

other natural remedies for menstrual cramps relief

If exercise doesn’t sound good for you and your body, there are other natural remedies such as heat therapy, dietary changes, and herbal remedies that can also provide relief from menstrual cramps.

Heat therapy, such as using a heating pad or taking a warm bath, is a popular and effective way to relax the muscles in the uterus and provide relief from menstrual pain. Heat works by increasing blood flow to the affected area, which helps to reduce muscle tension and period pain. 

Dietary changes can also play a role in reducing menstrual pain and other symptoms. Increasing the intake of foods rich in magnesium and calcium, such as leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and dairy products, can help to reduce menstrual pain. Magnesium is essential for muscle and nerve function, and calcium helps to regulate muscle contractions. 

Herbal remedies, such as ginger and chamomile tea, can also provide relief from menstrual cramps and reduce inflammation. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce pain and muscle spasms. Chamomile tea has also been shown to reduce menstrual pain and other associated symptoms. 

It is important to note that while natural remedies can provide relief from menstrual cramps, they may not work for everyone. We recommend talking to a healthcare provider before trying any new remedies. Additionally, if you experience severe menstrual pain or other symptoms that interfere with your daily life, it is important to seek proper medical attention.

By incorporating exercise and other natural remedies into your menstrual care routine, you can potentially reduce menstrual cramps and improve your overall menstrual health. Remember to always take care of yourself and prioritize your menstrual health. 

And if you’re looking for period underwear to wear during your next workout, Thinx has you covered with moisture-wicking underwear designed to absorb your period flow.

At Thinx, we strive to provide our readers with the most up-to-date, objective, and research-based information. Our content is crafted by experienced contributors who ground their work in research and data. Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked within the text or listed at the bottom to lead readers to the original source.

sources: 

Very Well Health. 4 Herbs to Reduce Menstrual Cramps. https://www.verywellhealth.com/herbs-for-menstrual-cramps-89901 

Nationwide Childrens. Yoga Exercises and Menstrual Cramps. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/helping-hands/yoga-exercises-and-menstrual-cramps 

National Library of Medicine. Effects of Somatothermal Far-Infrared Ray on Primary Dysmenorrhea. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3536333/ 

National Library of Medicine. Role of Vitamin D and Calcium in The Relief of Primary Dysmenorrhea. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7834752/