Ah, first time cramps. Don't worry, we've all been there. Except for those lucky few who seem to breeze through their periods without so much as a twinge (you know who you are). For the rest of us mere mortals, here's what you need to know about where your cramps might strike.
The usual suspects
Let's start with the basics: most period cramps come from your uterus contracting. Contractions help your body shed its uterine lining (or endometrium) and get things moving along.
Lower abdomen
That means that most people will feel cramping in their lower abdomen, around where they would expect menstrual-related pains (the classic spot!) If this is happening to you - congratulations! You're normal! Everyone usually experiences some kind of discomfort in that area during menstruation.
Back area
But don't let it stop at one location though; sometimes these pesky muscle contractions can spread out and cause cramping elsewhere too. One common spot outside of your tummy is lower back-area soreness or aches, which can definitely catch you off guard if it's new territory for ya!
Thighs
And brace yourself - but in some rare cases, people report feeling pain farther down into their thighs or even pelvis areas, though be assured, anything beyond those three hotspots could potentially indicate an underlying issue.
What’s happening inside?
The muscles responsible for draining blood eventually push them towards broader vessels known as vessels vasculature. They constrict causing ischemia which results in metabolic acidosis which signals these blood vessels whose constriction brings up menstrual-like symptoms [source needed].
In layman terms? Blood cells are delivering oxygen + nutrients then ultimately getting squeezed into tight spaces till’ they break up into little pieces that your body will later get rid of. This process causes cramps, bloating, and "marking" a new cycle for the month.
So what can you do?
Now comes the fun part. What should you do if your uterus is causing havoc on your life? (Apart from letting out an exasperated scream in agony!)
Cat stretch
Try doing some gentle yoga poses like the cat stretch or downward dog; don't worry about looking silly - everyone looks silly doing yoga at first. Deep breathing exercises are great as well!
Avoid coffee and alcohol
Surprisingly enough, caffeine can actually make cramping worse, so try to avoid coffee when worst days approach.
Alcohol too contains a chemical compound..er…something called histamine which tends to inflame your insides even further aggravating period pain- not ideal!
Heating pads
A heating pad or hot water bottle pressed against those sore areas (ahh blessed relief) soothes tense muscles around abdomen/back helping alleviate symptoms without the need for medication!
And although sometimes it feels like there's nothing one could wait till’ next week when most people experience some sort of periodic soothing effects just by naturally shedding bits of their uterine lining little by litte each day.
When should I see a doctor?
Sometimes minor cramping is normal but anything severe / prolonged outside usual menstrual symptoms may warrant medical attention.
- If accompanied with fever
- Extreme nausea/vomiting
- Clamminess + Dizziness
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
/ Check in with licensed professionals anytime doubts surrounding gynecological health arise//
Don't hesitate seeing specialized experts: not only they're equipped with variety-of-treatments/ therapies but countless doctors have confirmed numerous cases stemming from simple over-the-counter medicine gone wrong!
So there ya go comrades! An in-depth look at your ovary-overlord's deadly weapons. Remember to take care of yourself, let others pitch-in help wherever needed and approach menstrual days with a positive outlook! [Fight the power!]