How to Stop Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps affect up to 90% of women during their reproductive years. The good news is there are many ways to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps, from over-the-counter medicines to simple home remedies.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are the most effective option for period cramps. These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). They work by blocking prostaglandins, the chemicals that cause your uterus to contract and cramp.

For best results, start taking NSAIDs the day before your period begins, or as soon as cramping starts. Most people can safely take up to 600 mg of ibuprofen every six hours.

Will Tylenol Help With Menstrual Cramps?

Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help with menstrual cramps, but studies show it's less effective than NSAIDs. This is because Tylenol doesn't reduce prostaglandins like ibuprofen does. However, if you can't take NSAIDs due to stomach issues or other health conditions, Tylenol is a reasonable alternative.

Home Remedies That Work

Heat therapy is one of the best ways to stop menstrual cramps naturally. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower belly or back. Research shows heat can be as effective as NSAIDs for some women.

Exercise helps too. While it might be the last thing you want to do, studies show regular exercise reduces cramp intensity and duration. Even a short walk can boost endorphins, your body's natural painkillers.

Other helpful remedies include drinking herbal teas (ginger, chamomile, or peppermint), getting enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol, which can increase inflammation.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes severe cramps signal an underlying condition like endometriosis. See your doctor if pain prevents you from doing daily activities, cramps get worse over time, you have very heavy bleeding, or you're over 25 and severe cramps are new for you.

Your doctor may suggest hormonal birth control, which can significantly reduce menstrual pain for many women.