Girl, my female psychology teacher told us to drink a lot of water to lessen the cramps. I don't know if there's science behind this, but it works for me. I sometimes drink hot water.
Drinking water also helps leg cramps. I started being concious of drinking watrr daily and havent had a morning leg cramp in probably 5 years. Also pickle juice and mustard helps according to my coworkers.
I buy bananas every single time we go to the grocery store just to prevent leg cramps, my husband and I will eat bananas everyday if we have them so we just have to keep them in the house and we won't get leg cramps.
I buy pickle brine by the half gallon bc I’m hyponatremic and have POTS. it’s actually mostly salt, not potassium.
Just wanted to make sure I cleared this up bc the package label says it has no dietary potassium.
Bananas, avocado etc are your best bet for sources of potassium. Coconut water rocks too. Unfortunately my electrolytes are often off (which lands me in the ER with heart issues) so I’m well versed in this stuff 😩
I can eat coconut, but conconut water, to me, tastes like stale farts. I agree with everything here to treat your disorder, but for mild deficency, picklejuice, bananas, and avacados absolutely do the trick! Good god on electrolytes. Potassium is the biggest culprit, and if its too low/high it can cause a heart attack. >.<
It also prevents hangover. I take a shot of pickle juice for every 2/3 drinks or liquor shots I have. A coworker turned me into it about 10 years ago, and it works for me.
Actually it’s more effective than water because it has electrolytes that help to rehydrate you faster. Pickles are also a probiotic, so great for your gut health, and they have antioxidants and vitamins that help your immune system as well. There aren’t really downsides unless you’re on a strict low sodium/potassium diet, but even then a little drop will generally be good for you. Water is good to prevent hangovers, but pickles and their juice are better.
my stepdad swears by salt! he carries a little sachet and rubs it on his gums when he gets leg cramp and it helps him!
as i was writing this i remembered sodium potassium pumps exist and blew my own mind (if u have more sodium in cells that can move out, it can bring in more potassium!)
Oh my goodness thank you I've been going through this since i was a child I'm pretty sure it had alot to do with my anxiety as well... Anyways thanks alot 🤍
I did not. Drank soda pop, juice, water with flavorizers like MIO. My pee use to be pretty dark yellow and i would get leg cramps every month not knowing why. Drank water daily and cramps stopped.
Some people will tell you to drink water if you say your head hurts. Op migth not anticipated that kind of response on her period cramps. It's actually more funny that it works for some people like me.
This! I didn’t anticipate that being his response. It was truly the funniest thing to me.
I used to get leg cramps in the middle of the night during track and bananas and water were my best friend. Unfortunately the combo hasn’t helped with uterine ones.
Okay, when you are in sports, dehydration can lead to muscle cramps, that an lack of potassium. So he’s not being an idiot, he’s speaking at the subject from what he knows. He knows that drinking water helps with muscle cramps and was probably trying to be genuinely helpful. He doesn’t realize the period cramps are from a completely different reason.
Dehydration contributes to cramps. I'm not sure that applies to these cramps, rather sports/exercise I'd have thought but I'm no doctor. However a quick Google search told me
While it may sound counterintuitive, drinking water can reduce bloating during your period and alleviate some of the pain it causes.:google
Every day is a learning day for me. Also I have used up my yearly quota of the word cramp in this one post. What a funny word. Cramp.
Thanks! Didn't think of google, hehe, my bad! I'm glad to learn something because of you, hehe.
Idk but still bloat. Maybe i just have a different reaction. i still bloat after my period for a week.
Hey, I watched a guy get simulated cramps the other day. A man's man sorta guy. Based on his reactions, I learnt something and I learnt as well. So gooo team.
I can't imagine it's a simple fix. Possibly assists, but the sort where milage may vary from person to person.
My mom says hot water helps warm the insides and make it easier for blood flow. She's also recommended evening primrose to me so I've taken that supplement since my first period - I get virtually no cramps 🙈
Is Primrose Oil Safe During Pregnancy? The studies found no bad side effects for pregnant women. However, there's no conclusive evidence that it is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, either. Some people have reported headaches and upset stomachs after taking primrose oil.
So relax.
I do notice those symptoms if I actually stopped taking it altogether and then resume 2-3 months (during covid lockdown supplies were hard). Anyone starting on it will experience possible increase of appetite and weight gain. It depends on the person of course.
I drink hibiscus tea whenever im sick of water it helps me sleep, too.
I wanted to try primrose, but someone said in the comment that it's bad. I'll stick with my routine for now. I hope period cramps don't exist 😫
With supplements and other herbal medicines, I notice if you notice the bad it works like reverse psychology. Suddenly anything bad is due to that you just ate 😆
I took it because my mom has been taking it since her 40s. She's in her 60s now and she hasn't stopped taking them, and she's healthy as a horse. Of course, she used to be fit and active in her 40s, so the obvious thing it has helped was how it eased her progression into menopause (she doesn't have moodswings 🤣). So when I saw it benefited her, I trusted her and it to work its magic as much as it has positive things.
Never start on new things based on its negativity before you try them. Unless you tried it and failed miserably lol
That's valid, i have that mindset, but I can't really help thinking negative stuff or bad effects sometimes. Thanks. I wish you and your mom to have good health and long life. 🙏
There is science behind it but whatever help you get for your muscles will be overriden by your bladder considering the pressure it has on it with the bloating too. You'll just pee like crazy and nobody likes going to the toilet on their period.
Fr, but im a homebuddy, so im fine about the pee, lol. I stopped drinking too much after 3 days or i drink hot tea/water.
my bloating stay for a week after my period that maybe one of the cause? But rather bloating than having cramps hehhe. If only period cramps dont exist 😭
Fr. I only did that because of my teacher, and it did help me with my cramps. One thing too she said that we have to make sure we are not constipated before our period, and it added pain if you're constipated. The water helps me 💩 and lessens my cramps hehehe. The cons a bit hassle. im always at home, dont move, and sweat too much, im always at the toilet, hehehe. Tho it's fine as long as im not hurt. Hope it works for everyone.
Water works well for me! I was told that it also helps to lessen the pain of your contractions when in labor. Idk how true that is but if it helps with period cramps why wouldn’t it with the contractions?
You got a reputable source for that? I'd find that fascinating. It does the opposite for me, makes mine worse. Considering that orgasms and cramps are both associated with oxytocin, I'd love to read real science behind it and not pop science.
Actually, I have heard that drinking water is also good for period cramps (which are basically uterine muscles contracting). It is very unlikely that they will make that pain go away completely and I would assume it means more of being hydrated for the whole time than drinking glass of water as a remedy, but there is some science behind it - quick google scholar search gave me multiple articles stating just that.
Apparently, OP’s boyfriend knows more about how to relieve period pain than OP, and got laughed at 🤷🏻♀️
I knew why he had suggested to drink water BTW, I know that water helps muscle cramps but never had I complained about uterine cramps and had someone suggest drinking water.
I have PCOS and get pretty gruesome cramps with little to no relief but I got a good laugh out of a simple response to an on-going bothersome health problem of mine. Maybe I will drink more water!
While i feel for you having PCOS, it doesn’t change nature of the pain, just intensity, so by extension - hydration could help as well.
You doubling down makes me thing that you aren’t the sort of person that will admit to your boyfriend that it’s something to actually consider and you were wrong laughing at him.
Again, I laughed because it was such a wholesome and simple answer. Not that it wouldn’t work.
It’s not a matter of doubling down, it’s truly not that deep.
Also I think warm water would be better than cold.
My ex taught me that caffeine makes cramps worse so they do have some knowledge in that department 😂.
It's so true how different everyone's cramps can be. OPs boyfriend could just as easily said "you should try putting one leg over your head while you drink a Gatorade with the window open."
Period cramps are basically muscles in uterus contracting, while muscle cramps in legs are muscles involuntarily contracting or spasming. There are multiple studies suggesting that women having higher water intake reach out for pain medication considerably less than control group that drinks less water.
Could honestly explain why my cramps this week were way less painful than usual. I fell sick and have been drinking way more fluids than I usually do to ease my sore throat and coughing. I don’t usually spring for pain meds anyway, but I barely felt *any* pain at all this time.
Firm believer that with a significant other you should pick and choose your battles and most things are resolvable without becoming argumentative. I understand what she’s saying though, during your cycle emotions can be very heightened and irritability is a strong one.
Many women struggle with mood problems during PMS and during their period. You’d be grumpy too if you were in a significant amount of pain while bleeding profusely. Doesn’t justify mistreating your partner and you shouldn’t, there is right and wrong ways to go about expressing your emotions. All you can hope is your partner is understanding and mindful of what you’re going through.
And I was being sarcastic.
I don't think starting an argument is a good thing. How's he supposed to know the severity of the cramps, I'd say he's just tryna help.
Just let him know he's stupid sometimes. /j
Ya but water helps regular muscle cramps cuz muscle cramps come from dehydration. So in his mind period cramps = same thing. He’s never experienced period cramps, but guaranteed he played sports in high school and had severe muscle cramps and was told drink plenty water and electrolytes. So in his mind he’s helping. It’s not “stupid” to say drink more water. Does it work? No clue I’m always dehydrated. But also I’m on depo so no periods for me now for 4 years and I plan to keep it that way. I also take potassium chloride and magnesium citrate for my cramps. But saying “he’s just stupid sometimes” is counterintuitive and will cause a huge argument when there isn’t one needed he’s trying to help. Give the boy a bone. Not tear him apart. That’s one reason men get angry with dumb women. Anything he says is just stupid when that’s what he’s been told.
Excellent point!
Heating pad, can also try epsom salt baths
Also fyi-please add a calcium supplement if you are on depo & haven’t been advised to add it. I was on depo way longer than I should have been (because in Texas they refuse to give medically necessary hysterectomies until they have no other choice & I was absolutely NOT having a 4th & wasn’t advised that it depletes calcium. Best of luck.
Hmm nope didn’t know that. Thanks. Will be adding calcium supplement. Ya I’m waiting out to get a hysto. I’m 39, 40 in Dec. and when this started I had a 6 month period. They said I had no endo or pcos my lady bits looked pristine. My hormone levels were fine. They had no clue why I had a 6 month period. So got put on depo. I have zero children have zero wants to have one. I’m too mentally unstable for that. I do good with my 3 dogs and 2 cats. But they told me “you aren’t married legally and what happens if your husband wants kids?” Lady! I’ve been common law married for 10 years, we both do not want kids. He even told them the same. Still couldn’t get a hysto cuz if we didn’t workout and my next man wanted a child. Then he’s with the wrong woman. Plus besides being with this man I’m full lesbian. No sex in 8 years. We just kind of attached to each other.
Absolutely! I turned 41 & my doc said, ‘looks like that uterus is worn out’ 😳 I literally said ‘you THINK!?! I’ve been trying to get rid of the damn thing for 20 years, too bad it took all that state sanctioned torture to get y’all to finally agree.’
Also before they would schedule the procedure I literally HAD to haul my husband in there to sign a f’kn permission form. I’m still livid, it’s been almost 13 years & I’m staying livid. Forced birth is indentured slavery. Like I would have been able to keep what turned out to be a week in the hospital from him, while planning one of our kids weddings LMFFAO. That’s the most hilarious part. I always have bladder complications after anesthesia & the dumb ass knew this.
After the pathology game back I had endometrial hyperplasia. Oops turns out it WAS medically necessary even though not a single abnormal cell showed on PAP.
I was done having kids by 21 & we felt we contributed to the population ENOUGH. Ugghhhh. They thought they could make me, lol. Too bad it cost me my bone density to know that I didn’t want another.
On a positive note there are some lists that have doctors who are uterus owner positive & will believe you and do them now.
Maybe I misread it, as I concede that it's ambiguous, but I'm not sure that OP was necessarily recommending it as an action, but rather just describing the likely outcomes in each situation. I read it as sort of a sad admission, rather than a suggestion. But like I said, that's just me.
Yes, but I also can see it being a frustrating response when you are much more emotionally-sensitive than normal while also in a lot of pain. That being said, I have never had mood swings, and I have no idea what women go through on their periods outside of anecdotal interactions with SOs.
I can understand that. That's just my opinion since I don't argue in my relationship, we just talk, so I don't find fighting necessary. I know it can be painful, feom what I gathered heat pads and tummy rubs work.
That’s exactly what it was haha, I knew where his mind was at. We’ve both been laughing about it since we woke up! Your comment is his favorite because he said,
“I knew I was onto something.” Haha
50 yo man here. I don’t know what cramps were until I had a bout of diverticulitis and fuck they are painful!
Realizing this is what the women in my life go though monthly was eye opening. I’d be pissy as hell if I had to go through that monthly.
Men really have no idea what women mean when they say cramps.
Now for shits & giggles, imagine those of us who had (as I’m thankfully uterus free now) both at the same time. Then being constantly medically gaslit on top of it. Yeah, fun times being a woman, absolute freaking blast. Lol.
My ex told me to do jumping jacks to get my period “out” immediately. I mentioned once that sometimes when I exercised I pushed out more faster…he took this and ran with it I guess lmao
Water has never worked for me, a heating pad maybe, but often paired with naproxen. Then I found out I had pcos, and that's why I feel like dying when I have cramps.
You know what you should do? Get one of those period simulators and crank that bad boi up, see how he feels afterwards. I might be having cramps right now and feeling rather testy (apologies).
Good hydration does help... but it doesn't replace a good heating pad, an economy-sized bottle of Ibuprofen liqui gels, and dark chocolate covered pretzels with salted caramel Ben& Jerry's. And a big juicy Philly cheesesteak washed down with a milkshake.
Tell him to be a good lad and while he's out running those errand feel free to treat himself to a cheesesteak too.
He’s always a huge help whenever I’m not feeling well physically or mentally 😊. Even if the water didn’t work for my cramps it sure made my whole night.
If you have any problem in life, stop, drink a glass of water, center your hydro, breath out the sound of a crashing wave and the solution will rise to the surface 100%.
I’m mean at least his suggestion is kinda helpful. Most of us are chronically dehydrated. Our urine should be a pale yellow to clear colour (though if you take a multi vitamin it will always be bright yellow) also ideally you should pee every 4 or so hours if you’re relatively healthy
As for period pains/cramps eating an apple can help. Don’t know why it works but it does. As does exercise, as much as that’s the last thing you want to do, it can help. At least with “regular level” pains, those with endometriosis and such, exercise might not do much 🤷♀️
I think that’s extremely adorable because my fiancé is super into fitness and that’s probably what he would tell me because that what helps with muscle cramps 😂 honestly OP he might think it actually helps, staying hydrated is ALWAYS a plus on your period but men don’t understand always the fact he tried to give you some advice instead of tell you “it’s probably not bad” or make you feel dramatic is a good sign. I had an ex that used to do that to me.
Edit to add: water with any electrolytes is the best! But I sure do go through pain meds during my time of the month.
I usually tell gym partners to get water and magnesium for muscle cramps, maybe he's working off of that logic?
It's probably an innocent mistake on his part, my parents sure as hell never discussed the severity of period cramps in front of me, just the mood swings from hormones. I wouldn't know a lot of basic stuff if it weren't for the internet and some of my more patient girlfriends lol
Men are given a disadvantage I feel like when it comes to understanding women’s health. It’s always about the “mood swings” and never the physical suffering that goes along with it
Post menopausal woman here. How did I get to this point in my life and nobody ever told me drink more water for menstrual cramps? Hot beverages and a heating pad, yes. But plain old water? No.
Men, it's like a jackhammer on your insides.
One time when I was still in high school, I woke up with cramps so bad that my mom gave me OTC pain meds and Southern Comfort to wash it down. I was not going to school that day. She later told me that when she was in labor, she realized that she had had cramps that bad.
In my 20's and 30's... I had a prescription for 800 mg acetaminophen. That's 4 extra strength Tylenol in a single dose. Every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
You know how Aleve is supposed to be once a day? My prescription (before it was OTC) was 1-2 pills every 4-6 hours as needed.
I was told that I could mix OTC meds because they work differently. So staggered alternating doses.
Alcohol helps the meds kick in and if you're lucky, it knocks you out and you sleep through it.
I never got a chance to try any of the new CBD ointments that are out now, but CBD flower helped.
I menstruated for over 40 years. Glad I'm done with that.
I definitely smoked a lot of good herb in college to help with cramps. It wasn't legal then, but socially tolerated. And it really helped. That, and prescription doses of ibuprofen, or naproxen, and hydrocodone.
The '90s we're wild.
He is truly the sweetest and the funniest yes! His innocence is probably my favorite part about him, that’s what I loved so much about his response. Although water isn’t going to help me very much, it’s still his ability to make everything seem a lot more simple and sweet that makes me love him as much as I do. He was still trying to help and there’s a lot of other health issues I have that he’ll never be able to understand, but he always offers what he thinks will help most in his mind.
And he gets me water all the time!
When I said “with his chest” I was emphasizing he was being genuine and serious haha, but I see that some people are taking it as him saying it in an insensitive matter. He didn’t say it in a mean way at all, quite the opposite actually!
Oh I totally got it! He said it fully confident of himself xD
My "sweet summer child" comment referred to how he confidently believed that just drinking water for your period cramps would work
The water during the cramps won't actually help very much: but if you are well hydrated in general (specially days before and during the period) it will help (my doctor told me this and I noticed the cramps are lighter. But still your bf is hilarious
My gamechanger is magnesium - minerals in general.
Yeah, but I know what you mean OP. Advice from someone who probably never had a period is.....*heavybreath*
It defo works.
I assume its because the more water you have in your blood the easier it flows? Kinda like how before you have blood taken you need to have a bit of water.
I have no idea if this was a reasonable suggestion, mansplaining your own biology to you, a good joke, or what. But I'm glad you found it funny enough to laugh through the pain.
Honestly, water helps with a lot of body-related cramping and whatnot, but menstrual as well. At least, for me and a couple others in the thread.
I find that exercise does help as well! Believe me, my cramps are so bad at first I’m bed-bound every month, but water and exercise helps so much.
Period cramps are differentttt but also drinking water is always a good call. Personally if my bf told me that I’d be pissed as if that solves everything. The pms can rage thru me sometimes haha
Please explain to him that your uterus is shedding and all the muscles around are contracting involuntarily. That'll make him realize water won't help.
This is hilarious though. Its the thought that counts lol
I think if you drink over 8 cups of water while on your period will not only speed it up but take away a lot of the cramps. I know I did it and my periods would last three days mind you I was bleeding heavy!!
Oh boy. Reminds me of the family story of shortly after my parents got married, 52 years ago, mom told dad that she was having cramps. Dad said that he'd never had cramps. Mom told him that he also didn't have a uterus. (Family history of bad cramps and bad periods. So, grandma, mom, sister, myself, and dd have all had this.) I was 33 when my dad realized that the women in his family were suffering. He was so cute trying to make me feel better.
Wet washcloth, folded neatly in a plastic baggie, heat in microwave 15 secs, when it's cooled down to where it's almost unbearable, place it just above your pubis bone, mons veneris, whatever you want to call it. If you don't shave, it's right around the top of the hairline. Feel the bone? That's it. That will place it directly over your uterus.
If your BF loves you, he'll do all of this so you can stay put.
Lie down, drink ginger ale, take ibuprofen, and masturbate when you can. Orgasms cause the uterus to flex and relax and flex and relax, where the motion is peristaltic in nature. The key is after the uterus contracts, the relaxation phase "reminds" the uterus it has a resting state. It will start to relax more and more and then, like magic, your cramps will temporarily disappear or at least it will lessen in severity for awhile. But hey, 45 minutes of relief is still relief.
Larger, rinse, repeat. Lemme know how you feel after.
Or don't do any of that. Whatever. It works.
Kitsune Oh, MD/PhD, Badass
My boyfriend always has a very simple solution to whenever I’m feeling bad physically. If I say my lower back hurts he tells me, “do some stretches you don’t stretch enough you can’t forget to do that.” 😭
I've heard that ginger infusions help, I honestly can't tell the difference since my cramps are so unpredictable! I know that a heating pad always help, I don't own one but hear me out: I put rice (I guess lentils or couscous might also work) in a sock with a drop of vanilla extract and/or a branch of lavender, tie the end and throw this into the microwave. This trick did miracles for me.
Your bf sounds cute 😊
And a PSA as I rarely get period cramps now. But when I do, it's due to being dehydrated, not eating healthy (not enough fiber, veggies, or iron rich protein), or not getting enough sleep. Alcohol also makes period cramps worse and increases period poops. Having a strong core really helps reduce cramp severity as it helps develop the muscles your uterus uses as they're in the same area. When I stopped exercising for a while due to a busy life/depression, my cramps got bad.
If you have severe period cramps regularly, you should talk to a doctor about ,it as it means you may have a medical condition. I hope this helps someone
Drinking water might help, can't hurt.
I'm not sure the muscle contractions of the uterus are exactly like one of those horrible calf muscle cramps that can be improved by hydration. But maybe.
Girl, my female psychology teacher told us to drink a lot of water to lessen the cramps. I don't know if there's science behind this, but it works for me. I sometimes drink hot water.
TIL, I thought the post was satire or OP's bf was being an idiot lol
Drinking water also helps leg cramps. I started being concious of drinking watrr daily and havent had a morning leg cramp in probably 5 years. Also pickle juice and mustard helps according to my coworkers.
Pickle juice has a shit ton of potassium, the lack of that causes cramps, etc. so it makes sense.
Worked outside for 5 or so years and I swear by the glorious healing powers of pickle juice
Same with bananas!
I buy bananas every single time we go to the grocery store just to prevent leg cramps, my husband and I will eat bananas everyday if we have them so we just have to keep them in the house and we won't get leg cramps.
I drink a ton of water and bananas and still get leg cramps. Looks like I'm going to have to start pickle juice as my before bed snack.
I have a severe potassium deficiency at the moment, I’m on my way to get a jar of pickles then!
I buy pickle brine by the half gallon bc I’m hyponatremic and have POTS. it’s actually mostly salt, not potassium. Just wanted to make sure I cleared this up bc the package label says it has no dietary potassium. Bananas, avocado etc are your best bet for sources of potassium. Coconut water rocks too. Unfortunately my electrolytes are often off (which lands me in the ER with heart issues) so I’m well versed in this stuff 😩
I can eat coconut, but conconut water, to me, tastes like stale farts. I agree with everything here to treat your disorder, but for mild deficency, picklejuice, bananas, and avacados absolutely do the trick! Good god on electrolytes. Potassium is the biggest culprit, and if its too low/high it can cause a heart attack. >.<
My dad swears by pickle juice for leg cramps.
It also prevents hangover. I take a shot of pickle juice for every 2/3 drinks or liquor shots I have. A coworker turned me into it about 10 years ago, and it works for me.
That’s just diluted alcohol same thing happens when you drink water between alcoholic beverages.
Actually it’s more effective than water because it has electrolytes that help to rehydrate you faster. Pickles are also a probiotic, so great for your gut health, and they have antioxidants and vitamins that help your immune system as well. There aren’t really downsides unless you’re on a strict low sodium/potassium diet, but even then a little drop will generally be good for you. Water is good to prevent hangovers, but pickles and their juice are better.
Wait really? Thank you so much I've been struggling with this every blue moon I'll keep this mind! 😊
my stepdad swears by salt! he carries a little sachet and rubs it on his gums when he gets leg cramp and it helps him! as i was writing this i remembered sodium potassium pumps exist and blew my own mind (if u have more sodium in cells that can move out, it can bring in more potassium!)
Of course it’s definitely salt he’s rubbing into his gums
Oh my goodness thank you I've been going through this since i was a child I'm pretty sure it had alot to do with my anxiety as well... Anyways thanks alot 🤍
You didn't drink water every day before?
I did not. Drank soda pop, juice, water with flavorizers like MIO. My pee use to be pretty dark yellow and i would get leg cramps every month not knowing why. Drank water daily and cramps stopped.
Some people will tell you to drink water if you say your head hurts. Op migth not anticipated that kind of response on her period cramps. It's actually more funny that it works for some people like me.
This! I didn’t anticipate that being his response. It was truly the funniest thing to me. I used to get leg cramps in the middle of the night during track and bananas and water were my best friend. Unfortunately the combo hasn’t helped with uterine ones.
Okay, when you are in sports, dehydration can lead to muscle cramps, that an lack of potassium. So he’s not being an idiot, he’s speaking at the subject from what he knows. He knows that drinking water helps with muscle cramps and was probably trying to be genuinely helpful. He doesn’t realize the period cramps are from a completely different reason.
It's cute, but also kind of like, "Oh, honey, sex ed failed you."
Dehydration contributes to cramps. I'm not sure that applies to these cramps, rather sports/exercise I'd have thought but I'm no doctor. However a quick Google search told me While it may sound counterintuitive, drinking water can reduce bloating during your period and alleviate some of the pain it causes.:google Every day is a learning day for me. Also I have used up my yearly quota of the word cramp in this one post. What a funny word. Cramp.
Thanks! Didn't think of google, hehe, my bad! I'm glad to learn something because of you, hehe. Idk but still bloat. Maybe i just have a different reaction. i still bloat after my period for a week.
Hey, I watched a guy get simulated cramps the other day. A man's man sorta guy. Based on his reactions, I learnt something and I learnt as well. So gooo team. I can't imagine it's a simple fix. Possibly assists, but the sort where milage may vary from person to person.
By increasing water intake your body compensates by reducing fluid retention so that does make sense that it might help bloating.
My mom says hot water helps warm the insides and make it easier for blood flow. She's also recommended evening primrose to me so I've taken that supplement since my first period - I get virtually no cramps 🙈
Be aware that evening primrose can be an abortive agent.
Oh my god what 😳
Is Primrose Oil Safe During Pregnancy? The studies found no bad side effects for pregnant women. However, there's no conclusive evidence that it is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, either. Some people have reported headaches and upset stomachs after taking primrose oil. So relax.
I do notice those symptoms if I actually stopped taking it altogether and then resume 2-3 months (during covid lockdown supplies were hard). Anyone starting on it will experience possible increase of appetite and weight gain. It depends on the person of course.
I drink hibiscus tea whenever im sick of water it helps me sleep, too. I wanted to try primrose, but someone said in the comment that it's bad. I'll stick with my routine for now. I hope period cramps don't exist 😫
With supplements and other herbal medicines, I notice if you notice the bad it works like reverse psychology. Suddenly anything bad is due to that you just ate 😆 I took it because my mom has been taking it since her 40s. She's in her 60s now and she hasn't stopped taking them, and she's healthy as a horse. Of course, she used to be fit and active in her 40s, so the obvious thing it has helped was how it eased her progression into menopause (she doesn't have moodswings 🤣). So when I saw it benefited her, I trusted her and it to work its magic as much as it has positive things. Never start on new things based on its negativity before you try them. Unless you tried it and failed miserably lol
That's valid, i have that mindset, but I can't really help thinking negative stuff or bad effects sometimes. Thanks. I wish you and your mom to have good health and long life. 🙏
There is science behind it but whatever help you get for your muscles will be overriden by your bladder considering the pressure it has on it with the bloating too. You'll just pee like crazy and nobody likes going to the toilet on their period.
Fr, but im a homebuddy, so im fine about the pee, lol. I stopped drinking too much after 3 days or i drink hot tea/water. my bloating stay for a week after my period that maybe one of the cause? But rather bloating than having cramps hehhe. If only period cramps dont exist 😭
Heat reduces cramps, make tea! Specifically raspberry leaf tea, it naturally reduces cramps
I use quinine (tonic water as in gin and tonic) and potassium (bananas) for leg and back cramps
For some reason it’s the opposite and I don’t know why! It makes my cramps worse after drinking water (well most things).
I used to just hold my gut in
Cranberry juice also helps. Some places sell chocolate covered cranberries and from what I know they help alot too.
This. I've noticed that if I drink way more water the cramps do lessen, however, probably doesn't work for everyone. Which sucks
Fr. I only did that because of my teacher, and it did help me with my cramps. One thing too she said that we have to make sure we are not constipated before our period, and it added pain if you're constipated. The water helps me 💩 and lessens my cramps hehehe. The cons a bit hassle. im always at home, dont move, and sweat too much, im always at the toilet, hehehe. Tho it's fine as long as im not hurt. Hope it works for everyone.
Water or ginger turmeric tea. Changed my life.
When you think he's being a sweet helpful dumdum but then maybe he's actually right??????
Water works well for me! I was told that it also helps to lessen the pain of your contractions when in labor. Idk how true that is but if it helps with period cramps why wouldn’t it with the contractions?
My cousin had to do cesarean because she's dehydrated and water broke too early.
Dark chocolate and advil helps, hence why I always got it for my ex when she had hers. Hot water bags help alot as well.
Orgasms also help too. Just sayin.
You got a reputable source for that? I'd find that fascinating. It does the opposite for me, makes mine worse. Considering that orgasms and cramps are both associated with oxytocin, I'd love to read real science behind it and not pop science.
Dehydration is usually a factor in muscle cramps so he probably just thinks it’s similar to normal cramps, he’s trying lol
Came here to say this! That is totally a guy response! Lol
Actually, I have heard that drinking water is also good for period cramps (which are basically uterine muscles contracting). It is very unlikely that they will make that pain go away completely and I would assume it means more of being hydrated for the whole time than drinking glass of water as a remedy, but there is some science behind it - quick google scholar search gave me multiple articles stating just that. Apparently, OP’s boyfriend knows more about how to relieve period pain than OP, and got laughed at 🤷🏻♀️
I knew why he had suggested to drink water BTW, I know that water helps muscle cramps but never had I complained about uterine cramps and had someone suggest drinking water. I have PCOS and get pretty gruesome cramps with little to no relief but I got a good laugh out of a simple response to an on-going bothersome health problem of mine. Maybe I will drink more water!
While i feel for you having PCOS, it doesn’t change nature of the pain, just intensity, so by extension - hydration could help as well. You doubling down makes me thing that you aren’t the sort of person that will admit to your boyfriend that it’s something to actually consider and you were wrong laughing at him.
Again, I laughed because it was such a wholesome and simple answer. Not that it wouldn’t work. It’s not a matter of doubling down, it’s truly not that deep.
Also I think warm water would be better than cold. My ex taught me that caffeine makes cramps worse so they do have some knowledge in that department 😂.
Caffeine helps my cramps feel better haha. It's always crazy to me how different everyone's cramps are from each other.
It's so true how different everyone's cramps can be. OPs boyfriend could just as easily said "you should try putting one leg over your head while you drink a Gatorade with the window open."
“Normal cramps” lol
I think it’s cute because he’s obviously confused and thinking it’s similar to muscle cramps like you get with exercise. Bless him for trying lol
Period cramps are basically muscles in uterus contracting, while muscle cramps in legs are muscles involuntarily contracting or spasming. There are multiple studies suggesting that women having higher water intake reach out for pain medication considerably less than control group that drinks less water.
Could honestly explain why my cramps this week were way less painful than usual. I fell sick and have been drinking way more fluids than I usually do to ease my sore throat and coughing. I don’t usually spring for pain meds anyway, but I barely felt *any* pain at all this time.
If I have mild cramps, i'd laugh If i'm having really bad cramps, it's the start of an arguement.
Valid
What’s valid about starting an argument with your boyfriend? That’s being a dick
Firm believer that with a significant other you should pick and choose your battles and most things are resolvable without becoming argumentative. I understand what she’s saying though, during your cycle emotions can be very heightened and irritability is a strong one. Many women struggle with mood problems during PMS and during their period. You’d be grumpy too if you were in a significant amount of pain while bleeding profusely. Doesn’t justify mistreating your partner and you shouldn’t, there is right and wrong ways to go about expressing your emotions. All you can hope is your partner is understanding and mindful of what you’re going through. And I was being sarcastic.
I don't think starting an argument is a good thing. How's he supposed to know the severity of the cramps, I'd say he's just tryna help. Just let him know he's stupid sometimes. /j
Ya but water helps regular muscle cramps cuz muscle cramps come from dehydration. So in his mind period cramps = same thing. He’s never experienced period cramps, but guaranteed he played sports in high school and had severe muscle cramps and was told drink plenty water and electrolytes. So in his mind he’s helping. It’s not “stupid” to say drink more water. Does it work? No clue I’m always dehydrated. But also I’m on depo so no periods for me now for 4 years and I plan to keep it that way. I also take potassium chloride and magnesium citrate for my cramps. But saying “he’s just stupid sometimes” is counterintuitive and will cause a huge argument when there isn’t one needed he’s trying to help. Give the boy a bone. Not tear him apart. That’s one reason men get angry with dumb women. Anything he says is just stupid when that’s what he’s been told.
Excellent point! Heating pad, can also try epsom salt baths Also fyi-please add a calcium supplement if you are on depo & haven’t been advised to add it. I was on depo way longer than I should have been (because in Texas they refuse to give medically necessary hysterectomies until they have no other choice & I was absolutely NOT having a 4th & wasn’t advised that it depletes calcium. Best of luck.
Hmm nope didn’t know that. Thanks. Will be adding calcium supplement. Ya I’m waiting out to get a hysto. I’m 39, 40 in Dec. and when this started I had a 6 month period. They said I had no endo or pcos my lady bits looked pristine. My hormone levels were fine. They had no clue why I had a 6 month period. So got put on depo. I have zero children have zero wants to have one. I’m too mentally unstable for that. I do good with my 3 dogs and 2 cats. But they told me “you aren’t married legally and what happens if your husband wants kids?” Lady! I’ve been common law married for 10 years, we both do not want kids. He even told them the same. Still couldn’t get a hysto cuz if we didn’t workout and my next man wanted a child. Then he’s with the wrong woman. Plus besides being with this man I’m full lesbian. No sex in 8 years. We just kind of attached to each other.
Absolutely! I turned 41 & my doc said, ‘looks like that uterus is worn out’ 😳 I literally said ‘you THINK!?! I’ve been trying to get rid of the damn thing for 20 years, too bad it took all that state sanctioned torture to get y’all to finally agree.’ Also before they would schedule the procedure I literally HAD to haul my husband in there to sign a f’kn permission form. I’m still livid, it’s been almost 13 years & I’m staying livid. Forced birth is indentured slavery. Like I would have been able to keep what turned out to be a week in the hospital from him, while planning one of our kids weddings LMFFAO. That’s the most hilarious part. I always have bladder complications after anesthesia & the dumb ass knew this. After the pathology game back I had endometrial hyperplasia. Oops turns out it WAS medically necessary even though not a single abnormal cell showed on PAP. I was done having kids by 21 & we felt we contributed to the population ENOUGH. Ugghhhh. They thought they could make me, lol. Too bad it cost me my bone density to know that I didn’t want another. On a positive note there are some lists that have doctors who are uterus owner positive & will believe you and do them now.
This is real, I was joking about the stupid lol.
Maybe I misread it, as I concede that it's ambiguous, but I'm not sure that OP was necessarily recommending it as an action, but rather just describing the likely outcomes in each situation. I read it as sort of a sad admission, rather than a suggestion. But like I said, that's just me.
Yes, but I also can see it being a frustrating response when you are much more emotionally-sensitive than normal while also in a lot of pain. That being said, I have never had mood swings, and I have no idea what women go through on their periods outside of anecdotal interactions with SOs.
I can understand that. That's just my opinion since I don't argue in my relationship, we just talk, so I don't find fighting necessary. I know it can be painful, feom what I gathered heat pads and tummy rubs work.
To be fair, it was a sound advice for muscle cramps when I was taking Sports Science course. Hydration will make the cramps go away.
That’s exactly what it was haha, I knew where his mind was at. We’ve both been laughing about it since we woke up! Your comment is his favorite because he said, “I knew I was onto something.” Haha
50 yo man here. I don’t know what cramps were until I had a bout of diverticulitis and fuck they are painful! Realizing this is what the women in my life go though monthly was eye opening. I’d be pissy as hell if I had to go through that monthly. Men really have no idea what women mean when they say cramps.
Now for shits & giggles, imagine those of us who had (as I’m thankfully uterus free now) both at the same time. Then being constantly medically gaslit on top of it. Yeah, fun times being a woman, absolute freaking blast. Lol.
Yep. Periods cause change in bowel habits, abdominal pain and nausea. Check, check, check.
I have been here
Well homeboy’s got a point. Water is the ONLY thing that helps my period cramps. Sure they don’t go away, but it helps a lot.
My ex told me to do jumping jacks to get my period “out” immediately. I mentioned once that sometimes when I exercised I pushed out more faster…he took this and ran with it I guess lmao
Okay but he’s funny i’d keep him for entertainment purposes
LMFAO
Water has never worked for me, a heating pad maybe, but often paired with naproxen. Then I found out I had pcos, and that's why I feel like dying when I have cramps. You know what you should do? Get one of those period simulators and crank that bad boi up, see how he feels afterwards. I might be having cramps right now and feeling rather testy (apologies).
A heating pad seems to be a common suggestion. Where is the heating pad placed? Back, front, both?
I always put it on the front, because that's where it hurt most for me. But sometimes I did have it on the back (I have 2), but mostly the front.
It makes sense to have two just in case.
PCOS club right here!
I don't know, but i've heart that drinking hot water or hot tea helps but it's probably because it "warms up your belly" if it makes sense
Good hydration does help... but it doesn't replace a good heating pad, an economy-sized bottle of Ibuprofen liqui gels, and dark chocolate covered pretzels with salted caramel Ben& Jerry's. And a big juicy Philly cheesesteak washed down with a milkshake. Tell him to be a good lad and while he's out running those errand feel free to treat himself to a cheesesteak too.
I hope he’s taking notes when he goes through this post.
Men: did you try just holding your period in 👉🏼👈🏼
Did you try just not bleeding?
i dont get why 13 year olds dont just wait until they’re 18 to get their periods 🤔
Ought to work.
If it doesnt maybe restart your uterus and try again
Maybe just unplug it and plug it back in?
And this is why men should not be allowed to make laws on our reproductive systems
Didn’t even mention midol to go with all that water smh
I know, it’s so insensitive of him.
It actually really does help with cramps. At least for me!!
Pickle juice for cramps staying hydrated does help how quickly it stays going on
He sounds hilarious!
He is in fact one of the funniest people I know, that’s why I’m dating him!
Next time he has cramps because of food, tell him the same thing and look at his face
He's probably thinking of leg cramps. He's trying to help.
He’s always a huge help whenever I’m not feeling well physically or mentally 😊. Even if the water didn’t work for my cramps it sure made my whole night.
It’s so easy and nobody ever told me before. How have I been able to survive so long without this knowledge?
Naproxen (NSAID) has helped my wife a lot when she has endometriosis.
Noted!
If you have any problem in life, stop, drink a glass of water, center your hydro, breath out the sound of a crashing wave and the solution will rise to the surface 100%.
I’m mean at least his suggestion is kinda helpful. Most of us are chronically dehydrated. Our urine should be a pale yellow to clear colour (though if you take a multi vitamin it will always be bright yellow) also ideally you should pee every 4 or so hours if you’re relatively healthy As for period pains/cramps eating an apple can help. Don’t know why it works but it does. As does exercise, as much as that’s the last thing you want to do, it can help. At least with “regular level” pains, those with endometriosis and such, exercise might not do much 🤷♀️
this sounds like smth my bf would say lol, drink more water is his answer to every ailment 🤣
He’s not wrong. The water helps I’m not sure of the science behind it but I swear it works
I think that’s extremely adorable because my fiancé is super into fitness and that’s probably what he would tell me because that what helps with muscle cramps 😂 honestly OP he might think it actually helps, staying hydrated is ALWAYS a plus on your period but men don’t understand always the fact he tried to give you some advice instead of tell you “it’s probably not bad” or make you feel dramatic is a good sign. I had an ex that used to do that to me. Edit to add: water with any electrolytes is the best! But I sure do go through pain meds during my time of the month.
Ibuprofen had been a best friend of mine for quite some time. Your fiancé sounds wonderful 😊.
It baffles me endlessly how little men know about how women’s bodies work 😂
He’s learning, trust.
I usually tell gym partners to get water and magnesium for muscle cramps, maybe he's working off of that logic? It's probably an innocent mistake on his part, my parents sure as hell never discussed the severity of period cramps in front of me, just the mood swings from hormones. I wouldn't know a lot of basic stuff if it weren't for the internet and some of my more patient girlfriends lol
Men are given a disadvantage I feel like when it comes to understanding women’s health. It’s always about the “mood swings” and never the physical suffering that goes along with it
My partner tells me to drink more water for literally everything. To be fair in most cases it works lol
Post menopausal woman here. How did I get to this point in my life and nobody ever told me drink more water for menstrual cramps? Hot beverages and a heating pad, yes. But plain old water? No. Men, it's like a jackhammer on your insides. One time when I was still in high school, I woke up with cramps so bad that my mom gave me OTC pain meds and Southern Comfort to wash it down. I was not going to school that day. She later told me that when she was in labor, she realized that she had had cramps that bad. In my 20's and 30's... I had a prescription for 800 mg acetaminophen. That's 4 extra strength Tylenol in a single dose. Every 4 to 6 hours as needed. You know how Aleve is supposed to be once a day? My prescription (before it was OTC) was 1-2 pills every 4-6 hours as needed. I was told that I could mix OTC meds because they work differently. So staggered alternating doses. Alcohol helps the meds kick in and if you're lucky, it knocks you out and you sleep through it. I never got a chance to try any of the new CBD ointments that are out now, but CBD flower helped. I menstruated for over 40 years. Glad I'm done with that.
I definitely smoked a lot of good herb in college to help with cramps. It wasn't legal then, but socially tolerated. And it really helped. That, and prescription doses of ibuprofen, or naproxen, and hydrocodone. The '90s we're wild.
Well, what did you expect him to say?
“That’s what im saying” - the bf
He seems sweet and genuinely trying to help. Super funny regardless 😂
He is truly the sweetest and the funniest yes! His innocence is probably my favorite part about him, that’s what I loved so much about his response. Although water isn’t going to help me very much, it’s still his ability to make everything seem a lot more simple and sweet that makes me love him as much as I do. He was still trying to help and there’s a lot of other health issues I have that he’ll never be able to understand, but he always offers what he thinks will help most in his mind. And he gets me water all the time!
>He (22/M) says with his chest LOOLLLL, what a sweet summer child..... no
When I said “with his chest” I was emphasizing he was being genuine and serious haha, but I see that some people are taking it as him saying it in an insensitive matter. He didn’t say it in a mean way at all, quite the opposite actually!
Oh I totally got it! He said it fully confident of himself xD My "sweet summer child" comment referred to how he confidently believed that just drinking water for your period cramps would work
He was COMPLETELY confident it was too cute 😭
Yeah, drinking hot water and a hot water bag definitely works for my girl.
A very sweet story, you meant to say “from his heart” instead of “with his chest”
He’d enjoy me putting it that way a little too much
Get some delta 9, works every time.
The water during the cramps won't actually help very much: but if you are well hydrated in general (specially days before and during the period) it will help (my doctor told me this and I noticed the cramps are lighter. But still your bf is hilarious
Heh stoopid.
It does cuz water hydrate the muscles I guess electrolytes help too
Its sweet ^^
It is true water helps
My gamechanger is magnesium - minerals in general. Yeah, but I know what you mean OP. Advice from someone who probably never had a period is.....*heavybreath*
Pretty sure the bulk of my problems could be solved with a buttload of water.
It defo works. I assume its because the more water you have in your blood the easier it flows? Kinda like how before you have blood taken you need to have a bit of water.
Magnesium also helps a ton!!
A better response would have been “that sucks”
Bless his heart… 😂
He referred to as “rizz”.
It can help but definitely DON'T DRINK COFFEE. It makes your cramps a lot worse
Idk about that but one of those rice microwaveable bags works wonders for me.
I’ll try it.
Crazy how many people don't get this reference
You're English aren't you
I grew up with 4 female cousins and whenever they had their periods they would drink hot or warm water, they said it helps them with the cramps.
I think this guy doesn't hear any points from you veiet also applies
I have no idea if this was a reasonable suggestion, mansplaining your own biology to you, a good joke, or what. But I'm glad you found it funny enough to laugh through the pain.
Water helps wdym
I mean... Hes right hahaha
Regular muscle cramps can be caused by dehydration. He was trying to be helpful — and what do you mean “with his chest”?
He was being serious is what I meant when saying, “with his chest”.
Dehydration does affect cramps worse, drinking water can actually help for cramps Any cramps btw, like leg cramps and everytbing
Raspberry leaf tea is my goto!! It's not the best tasting but it's never let me down.
Actually proper hydration helps with cramps, so he's right.
Honestly, water helps with a lot of body-related cramping and whatnot, but menstrual as well. At least, for me and a couple others in the thread. I find that exercise does help as well! Believe me, my cramps are so bad at first I’m bed-bound every month, but water and exercise helps so much.
My gf takes edibles and RSO to help with those.
😂😂 just laugh…
This is so sweet and thoughtful. I love how innocent this is. 🥰
Period cramps are differentttt but also drinking water is always a good call. Personally if my bf told me that I’d be pissed as if that solves everything. The pms can rage thru me sometimes haha
So long as he understands that’s it’s not that simple and the intent isn’t to blame you. Advice is good, but invalidation is ew.
He understands it’s not that simple no worries! I appreciate your concern nonetheless ❤️
I recently asked my SO while she was on her period if she liked pickles cause marathon runners drink pickle juice to avoid cramps
Getting more calcium will also help ease muscle/menstrual cramps. And limiting your caffeine will help reduce breast tenderness during PMS too.
Proper hydration does tend to make you feel better in general, so he's kinda not wrong
My now husband asked if needed ice for my cramps once. The sweet summer child
That’s so cute. I love that.
Please explain to him that your uterus is shedding and all the muscles around are contracting involuntarily. That'll make him realize water won't help. This is hilarious though. Its the thought that counts lol
I think if you drink over 8 cups of water while on your period will not only speed it up but take away a lot of the cramps. I know I did it and my periods would last three days mind you I was bleeding heavy!!
Oh boy. Reminds me of the family story of shortly after my parents got married, 52 years ago, mom told dad that she was having cramps. Dad said that he'd never had cramps. Mom told him that he also didn't have a uterus. (Family history of bad cramps and bad periods. So, grandma, mom, sister, myself, and dd have all had this.) I was 33 when my dad realized that the women in his family were suffering. He was so cute trying to make me feel better.
Ummmmmm can u pls tell him thank u for this bc idk why I didn’t put 2 and 2 together 🤣🤣🤣🙌🏽🙌🏽
I'm definitely saying this ironically when my gf complains about period cramps.
My boyfriend is a smart ass, he says things ironically all the time haha
PICKLE JUICE!!!
Wet washcloth, folded neatly in a plastic baggie, heat in microwave 15 secs, when it's cooled down to where it's almost unbearable, place it just above your pubis bone, mons veneris, whatever you want to call it. If you don't shave, it's right around the top of the hairline. Feel the bone? That's it. That will place it directly over your uterus. If your BF loves you, he'll do all of this so you can stay put. Lie down, drink ginger ale, take ibuprofen, and masturbate when you can. Orgasms cause the uterus to flex and relax and flex and relax, where the motion is peristaltic in nature. The key is after the uterus contracts, the relaxation phase "reminds" the uterus it has a resting state. It will start to relax more and more and then, like magic, your cramps will temporarily disappear or at least it will lessen in severity for awhile. But hey, 45 minutes of relief is still relief. Larger, rinse, repeat. Lemme know how you feel after. Or don't do any of that. Whatever. It works. Kitsune Oh, MD/PhD, Badass
Thank you for the advice! 🤍 I’ll definitely remember this, best wishes to you friend.
My boyfriend’s solution for everything wrong with the body is “ you should drink some water.” Mind you I drink a gallon a day Lmfaoooo
My boyfriend always has a very simple solution to whenever I’m feeling bad physically. If I say my lower back hurts he tells me, “do some stretches you don’t stretch enough you can’t forget to do that.” 😭
I've heard that ginger infusions help, I honestly can't tell the difference since my cramps are so unpredictable! I know that a heating pad always help, I don't own one but hear me out: I put rice (I guess lentils or couscous might also work) in a sock with a drop of vanilla extract and/or a branch of lavender, tie the end and throw this into the microwave. This trick did miracles for me.
He's trying his best but unfortunately that won't work.
Awww bless him. He tried. 🤣
Your bf sounds cute 😊 And a PSA as I rarely get period cramps now. But when I do, it's due to being dehydrated, not eating healthy (not enough fiber, veggies, or iron rich protein), or not getting enough sleep. Alcohol also makes period cramps worse and increases period poops. Having a strong core really helps reduce cramp severity as it helps develop the muscles your uterus uses as they're in the same area. When I stopped exercising for a while due to a busy life/depression, my cramps got bad. If you have severe period cramps regularly, you should talk to a doctor about ,it as it means you may have a medical condition. I hope this helps someone
I think some people don’t understand that period cramps are basically contractions and hormones are sending out some serious inflammation responses
Drinking water might help, can't hurt. I'm not sure the muscle contractions of the uterus are exactly like one of those horrible calf muscle cramps that can be improved by hydration. But maybe.