3 Helpful Products for Cramps
Ever since the start of my cycle in 7th grade, I’ve had cramps. I don’t mean the small, uncomfortable ones that make you wince here and there. I’m talking about the bad ones, the ones that made me cry out to Jesus, asking him to either take me now or stop the pain. Seriously! I was hanging on for dear life. So, if you’ve ever struggled with cramps, here are my 3 ultimate favorite ways to ease them.
I’ve reached a stage in my life where I rarely have cramps, and if I do, they are minor. Well, minor by my standards. I used to throw up everything I ate and sleep in the nurse’s office because of the pain. I mean, it was so bad that the nurses knew me, and when I’d go in once a month, they already knew what I was in for. I won’t say these products will 100% cure your cramps. I’m not a doctor, though I will say, as someone who struggled with intense cramps for the past 8 years and is now liberated, I’ll share my hacks. No gatekeeping!
Portable Heating Pad for Cramps
This right here has saved me on numerous occasions: a heating pad. And I know what you’re thinking, yes, everyone says you need a heating pad because, well, you do. Heat helps with the pain of cramps. Cramps are caused by muscle tension, and the heat helps relax those muscles and aids in blood flow. Heating pads are a fast way to ease that muscle tension, which thankfully releases you from the pain!
Now, you don’t need just any heating pad. I personally wouldn’t recommend the ones you have to plug in and lay down on. I’ve had more of those than I can count, and the heat isn’t targeted enough for my liking.
So, I recommend this heating pad. I have this exact one, and it takes about 90 minutes to charge for almost 3 hours of use. I go everywhere and anywhere with this on! No more being bedridden; I hook it on my waist and go about my day. It has 3 heat settings and even has a massage function. I can easily flip it from my back to my stomach. My sisters ask to use mine all the time; even they love it!
And if you’re worried about having it on in public, I suggest wearing it under oversized shirts or a hoodie. Personally, I don’t care lol. The pain of my cramps is more of an issue than what others think of what I have going on. Though, I will say I get a lot of compliments from women; I’m always being asked where I got it from and if it works. I tell them 1000% yes and they need one if they get cramps at all. Trust me, this heating pad is so cute and handy; you need it! It’s super affordable, plus it comes in pink and with a cute little fox.
Raspberry Leaf Tea
If you don’t get anything else on this list, please at least try raspberry leaf tea. I don’t play when it comes to this tea. This tea may be difficult to find depending on where you live, but it should be at your local grocery store. If all else fails and you can’t find it, it’s definitely on Amazon. Now, I’ve tried so many herbs and teas for my cramps, but this one is the best by far. Raspberry Leaf tea makes my cramps evaporate, no joke. But you can’t just wait until you’re falling out from cramps to drink it. Here are the steps I recommend to properly use raspberry leaf tea for your cramps:
- Check when your next cycle is coming (you can usually tell, lol).
- Drink a cup of tea at least 2x a week leading up to your next period.
That’s it. No joke, just drink the tea 2x a week before your cycle. I like starting right when I get the first hint that my period is starting. You know, when your boobs start to hurt or you’re getting more annoyed than usual. Just start drinking the tea immediately. Please don’t be like me and wait until the last minute. It’ll be too late, unless you’re lucky.
I’ve got to be honest, raspberry leaf tea isn’t as tasty as it sounds. But I’ve got you covered; I usually just down it with a little honey. Look out for my tea recipes if you want yours a little tastier. Also, an important note is that this works for ME, and while it’s worked for others I’ve recommended it to, it may not work for everyone. Though, I say it’s definitely worth a try.
Also please check in with your doctor to make sure this tea is okay for you to drink. Especially if you are taking medication, I don’t play about y’all health. Seriously, ask your doctor before drinking this tea. A quick phone call won’t hurt anybody.
Advil
Advil is my best friend when I’m on my cycle. Not in a weird way, but it is truly helpful. I use Advil similarly to the raspberry leaf tea. I usually start taking them right when I start to feel my first mini cramp. First off, before you take any Advil, ask your doctor and read the directions. It’s recommended to take 200 mg by mouth every 4 to 6 hours. But, again, ask your doctor for your recommended dose and how to use them properly.
I use all these methods combined, and I have slim to no cramps each period. Just make sure to stay on top of it, and the more it will become routine, and you will see improvements in your periods.
Ciao Ciao!
I’d like to end by saying I hope we can all be free of cramps. Just know you are not alone, as 60% of women are struggling with cramps. I hope we can all be free from the horrors of cramps.
Share below if you’ve tried these products or if you have any tips for us! <3
