Many women have menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) in association with their periods. It is usually felt in the lower abdomen and/or in the lower back. Some women have cramps that are so severe that it interferes with normal activities. Rarely the cramps can be so bad that they cause nausea and vomiting or fainting. If your cramps restrict your activities at home, school or work you should consider strategies to lessen them. A healthy lifestyle is the most important treatment.

Menstrual cramps occur because of the hormonal and biochemical changes that occur during your monthly cycle. All treatments modify these directly or indirectly.

A regular exercise program is the single best remedy for cramps. You should engage in 30 to 45 minutes of vigorous exercise (running, swimming, aerobics classes, exercise bicycle...) 3 or 4 times a week. Just before your period try to exercise daily.

Alcohol and cigarettes may make cramps worse.

Over-the-counter pain pills are effective. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the least effective. Aspirin is better. Ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin, etc.) is usually much better. Naproxen (Alleve) may be the best. Generic acetaminophen and ibuprofen are exactly the same as the various brands. They're much cheaper since they don't spend money on advertising. If you have medical insurance with drug coverage get these in prescription strength from you doctor. That makes them much less expensive. Narcotics like codeine are sometimes necessary.

Birth control pills greatly reduce and sometimes completely eliminate menstrual cramps.

Some women notice that having an orgasm reduces their cramps. This information should probably not be shared with men to avoid too many offers of assistance.

Menstrual discomfort that gradually increases may be due to endometriosis.

A sudden increase in cramps with more bleeding than usual may signify something else. If the period comes earlier than expected it might mean a sexually transmitted disease like chlamydia. If it comes in association with a late period it could be a miscarriage.

If cramps are a problem for you consult your gynecologist.