• Painful menstrual cycles
• May affect entire body
• Symptoms may include cramping abdominal pain prior to and during menstrual cycle, diarrhea and headaches
• Caused most often by changes in hormones but may be related to physical abnormality or birth control devices
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects females only
• Can occur at any age following the start of the first menstrual cycle
• May be mild to severe pain and can be emotionally difficult
• Not life threatening

GENERAL THERAPY

• Use hot baths, hot water bottle or heating pad to relax muscles
• Herbal teas: such as chamomile; mint; raspberry; blackberry can help
• Regular exercise
• Empty bladder when you have the urge and as soon as possible
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Acetaminophen
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Ibuprofen
  • Naproxen
  • Aspirin
• Dietary supplements
  • • Vitamin E
    • Thiamin
    • Omega-3

ALTERNATIVE THERAPY

• Stress reduction, such as yoga, massage, and meditation
• Acupuncture

PRECAUTIONS AND AVOIDANCES

• Avoid smoking
• Limit intake of alcohol, caffeine, salt and sweets
• Eat balanced meals including fruits, and vegetables
• Reduce stress

SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IF

• You become pregnant
• Even with home treatment your pain gets worse
• Cramps that last longer than your period
• Symptoms become more frequent or severe
• You start having a fever, nausea, vomiting, and/or vaginal discharge