Menstrual cramps can be super irritating and often painful (as if we don’t have enough to deal with already). If this is something you struggle with, take a little comfort in knowing that you’re not the only one. In fact, a whopping 90% of women experience painful periods within their lifetime. However, even though it might not seem like it, painful periods do happen for a reason. Here comes the science-y bit. Period pain occurs when the muscular wall of the womb contracts to help shed its lining (as part of your period). As the wall of the womb contracts, the blood vessels that line your womb are compressed, temporarily cutting off their blood and oxygen supply. Ouch. Due to this lack of oxygen, the tissues in your womb release pain-triggering chemicals, all whilst your body is also producing prostaglandins. These nasty little chemicals encourage the womb muscles to further contract, which in turn increases the level of pain… and brings a whole world of it, if we’re being honest.

Too often, we find ourselves searching for the Holy Grail of period pain relief. With an ongoing list of various remedies and treatments on offer, it seems like nothing will ever really work. But an increasing number of women have reported that some of the absolute best tools they have used for treating painful periods are CBD and THC products.

So how could CBD help ease your period pain?

So, not only is CBD potentially aiding you as an anti-inflammatory, it’s also linked to both muscular and vascular relaxation. As the dreaded monthly cramps are related to the smooth muscle of your uterus contracting, the relaxant properties of CBD could potentially help you out. Cannabinoids’ wide recognition as a relaxant means use of CBD products can help your muscle tissue relax and ultimately help bring that pain level down. As the muscles relax, CBD can also pump up your blood flow, helping to provide relief to your poor, oxygen-starved muscles and work on soothing that gnawing pain.

As well as the introduction of CBD into your pain relief options, here are some of our other suggestions to incorporate into your monthly period routine, with the hope of reducing and easing your period pain:

Gentle Exercise

Exercise may feel like the last thing you want to do when you’re on your period, but even mild forms of exercise release endorphins. These chemicals can relax your muscles, reduce pain and make you feel happier. Perhaps try a steady walk, a simple yoga flow or some light stretching.

Herbal Teas

Cosying up with a cup of tea can sometimes be the perfect cure. Herbal teas, such as chamomile and peppermint, can help soothe and relieve cramps thanks to their anti-inflammatory capabilities. If you need that extra bit of relief, try adding a drop of your Restore Me CBD to your tea.

Warm Bath or Shower

Taking time for yourself and sinking into a warm bath or shower can help you unwind and ease up those bad cramps.

Heat

Putting a heating pad or hot water bottle on your tummy or lower back may also offer some comfort, allowing your muscles to relax and help reduce the pain.

Massage

Massaging in a light, circular motion around your lower abdomen may also help alleviate period pain.

Medication

Anti-inflammatory painkillers can be an effective treatment for the easing of period pain. NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) not only inhibit the production of prostaglandins and inflammation but are also used in reducing heavy bleeding. It may be suitable for some women to choose hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill or hormonal IUD, to relieve and prevent menstrual cramps, in which case you should consult a healthcare professional.

It is important to remember that every woman is different and so is their period, so not all treatments work the same way for everyone; it’s all about what works best for you and your body. Don’t let your period limit you, find the presence and power in the divine feminine and use it to your advantage to turn inwards, tune in and listen.