How I Beat Period Back Pain

Period back pain is something I’ve always suffered from. And thigh cramps too. Goes right from my lower back, into my legs and to the tips of my toes. It’s dull, it aches and it makes me bloody moody.

Everyone gets it slightly different. Some have to curl up in a ball with stomach cramps, others get the lower period backaches and some, some lucky few, get nothing.

Why do you get lower back pain on your period?

These cramps are caused by hormones released during menstruation which start contractions in order to shed the lining of your uterus.

Yep, these contractions even extend into your back, not just your tummy. However, if you have sever back pain during your period then get checked out, as Healthline write it could be linked to endometriosis. This is where endometrial tissue grows around vessels that surround the pelvis hips and legs, causing severe pain. If you suspect you might have this, have a chat with your doctor. 

How to get rid of period back pain

Over the years I’ve tried lots of ways to get my monthly period backaches under control. I’ve gone through some pretty strong over the counter paras specifically for women issues that have made me feel almost high and spacey, and some natural remedies too.

Here’s what I find works for me. Hope it works for your period back pain too!

Deep breathing

 

I find that when I am tense it makes the dull period back pain worse. If I am at home then I lie down flat on the bed and take some deep breaths. In through the nose and out through the mouth.

Then I try, in for 4 and out for 8. I do this 4 times, sometimes more. This helps me to release some of the tension in my body.

Heat

Heat is a Godsend when it comes to period back pain. A small hot water bottle tucked into the back of my jeans has even gone on a trip to town before!

You can also buy these heat patches from Deep Heat, which work well, and they don’t smell so no one would know you’ve got one on.

Manganese foods

 

Look at foods which are rich in manganese, such as walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds and dark choc! You could stir these into your morning porridge, or even add to a rich chocolate brownie if that’s what you’re feeling.

Exercise

I’m not talking about going to your weekly HIIT class here. I’m talking yoga poses, stretching and gentle exercises to increase circulation in the pelvis. You’ll also help boost your endorphins which may counteract those prostaglandins which cause the contractions.

If all else fails, try the corpse pose, which you basically lie flat on the floor, like a corpse and breath. It’s fantastic.

Our Remedy Oil

 

A daily dose of CBD oil may help you ease the period back pain. The cannabinoid is thought to work with the receptors in your body to combat aches and inflammation. You can also buy creams containing the cannabinoid which might be a great way to ease the discomfort and get a little massage from someone too!

Ibuprofen 

Over the counter, anti-inflammatories and paras have helped me in the past. However, I have also tried some of the super-strong ones, which I wouldn’t suggest. I felt pretty spacey, which isn’t ideal when you’ve got a day at the office or a child to look after!

There are 6 ways that I have helped make my monthly guest more bearable. I also find that when it is at its worst I need to be somewhere silent, as music or even people talking seems to make it feel worse – what is the science behind that? We’re on instagram if you want any more period related life hacks @itsourremedy