Painful Periods: A Guide To Supplements For Soothing The Monthly Storm

Secure Ordering | Free Shipping | 20% Off Retail Prices

Along with providing information on whether supplements for menstrual problems might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy menstruation supplements for your period through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary and get free shipping and 20% off the retail price of professional-grade supplements.

Navigating menstrual problems can be a challenging journey for many persons, often accompanied by discomfort and disruptions to daily life. Fortunately, nutritional supplements offer a natural and holistic approach to managing these issues. In this article, we’ll learn about nutritional supplements and explore their benefits in alleviating menstrual problems. From reducing cramps to balancing hormones, these supplements provide promising solutions for enhancing menstrual and overall health. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the science behind these supplements and their role in supporting menstrual health.

What Is Dysmenorrhea?

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstrual periods, can involve lower abdominal cramps, back pain, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Primary dysmenorrhea, initiated by prostaglandins, usually arises shortly after menstruation onset. In contrast, secondary dysmenorrhea, linked to conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids, tends to cause more intense pain. Seeking medical guidance for persistent menstrual discomfort is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management strategies.

What Food and Lifestyle Factors Are Important For Managing Dysmenorrhea?

• Balanced Diet: Opt for a diet packed with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods provide essential nutrients and can help keep your body in top shape during your period.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Think about adding salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts to your meals. These goodies are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory powers. They might just dial down those pesky period pains.
• Calcium and Magnesium: Load up on calcium from dairy and leafy greens, and don’t forget about magnesium from nuts and seeds. They work together to relax muscles and soothe those cramps.
• Hydration: Keep sipping on water throughout the day. Staying hydrated can help beat the bloat and ease discomfort when Aunt Flo comes to visit.
• Regular Exercise: Get moving with activities like walking, swimming, or yoga. Exercise boosts circulation, kicks stress to the curb, and can help take the edge off those menstrual woes.
• Stress Management: Try some stress-busting tricks like deep breathing or meditation. Lowering your stress levels can help tame those wild period symptoms.
• Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Cut back on caffeine and booze—they can leave you feeling parched and worsen those period pains.
• Heat Therapy: Treat yourself to a warm bath or cozy up with a heating pad on your lower abdomen. It’s like a hug for your muscles, helping them relax and easing those cramps.
• Herbal Remedies: Sip on ginger tea or brew up some chamomile to calm your cramps. These natural remedies might just offer some sweet relief from the monthly madness.
• Adequate Sleep: Don’t skimp on shut-eye! Aim for a good night’s sleep to keep your hormones happy, reduce stress, and feel your best during your period.

What Nutritional Supplements Are Recommended For Dysmenorrhea?

Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual cramps, can be quite uncomfortable for many persons. Some supplements may help alleviate symptoms or support overall menstrual health. Here are some supplements that have been studied in relation to menstrual cramps:

• Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in muscle relaxation. Some studies suggest that magnesium supplements may help reduce the severity and duration of menstrual cramps. Researchers state, “The picture that emerges shows that magnesium supplementation is effective in the prevention of dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, and menstrual migraine and in the prevention of climacteric symptoms.” [PMID: 28392498] Magnesium also helps to prevent menstrual migraines. [PMID: 28392498]
• Thiamine: In an article entitled: Curative treatment of primary (spasmodic) dysmenorrhoea, researchers found that among young women aged 12-21 being given thiamine at 100 mg/day, they were “87 percent completely cured”. [PMID: 8935744] [PMC4825494]
• Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties. They may help reduce inflammation and ease the pain associated with menstrual cramps. Researchers concluded, “daily supplementation of 300-1800 mg omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids over 2-3 months are generally well tolerated and reduces pain and analgesic use in women with dysmenorrhoea.” [PMID: 37545015]
• GLA Fatty Acids: In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, certain other fatty acids like gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), found in evening primrose oil, have been studied for their potential to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. Researchers have concluded, “Since there are no known side-effects associated with supplementation of these nutrients, management of dysmenorrhea through nutrition modulation should be an acceptable alternative to drug treatments.” [PMID: 18296341]
• Calcium: Calcium is essential for muscle function, including uterine muscles. Adequate calcium intake may help alleviate cramping during menstruation.  In a larger placebo-controlled study, calcium supplementation (1,200 mg/day) significantly reduced premenstrual depression, fatigue, edema, and pain in women with PMS. [PMC5313351]
• Vitamin D: Emerging research has explored the relationship between vitamin D levels and menstrual pain. Maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels is important for this and many other reasons. [PMID: 30898624] Vitamin D dosages should be adjusted based on your blood level with many clinicians recommending an optimal Vitamin D level of 50-80 ng/ml. Vitamin D labs can be ordered online through the NutriScape Lab Shop (Affiliate Link).
• Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that may have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have suggested that vitamin E supplements could help reduce menstrual cramps. [PMID: 36513486]
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a spice with potential anti-inflammatory properties. At 1000 mg for day 1-3 of the menstrual cycle, researchers found, “Cinnamon can reduce the intensity of primary dysmenorrhea. This aromatic spice for relive of primary dysmenorrhea is recommended.” [PMID: 30396627]
• Fennel: Fennel is an aromatic herb that has been traditionally used to relieve menstrual discomfort. It may be consumed as a supplement or in tea form. Researchers in a 2020 review of the studies on fennel concluded, “fennel is as effective as conventional drug therapies in alleviating pain in primary dysmenorrhea.” [PMC7697926]
• Ginger: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Some research has indicated that ginger supplements may help reduce menstrual pain. [PMID: 23865123] A review stated, “Collectively these RCTs provide suggestive evidence for the effectiveness of 750-2000 mg ginger powder during the first 3-4 days of menstrual cycle for primary dysmenorrhea.” [PMID: 26177393]
• Valerian Root: Valerian root is an herbal remedy that may help relax muscles and reduce tension. It has been explored for its potential to ease menstrual cramps. A study was conducted that found that Valerian at a dose 255 mg given 3 times daily for 3 days beginning at the onset of menstruation seemed “to be an effective treatment for dysmenorrhea, probably because of its antispasmodic effects.” [PMID: 21959068]
• Chamomile: Chamomile is an herb known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile tea or supplements may help reduce menstrual discomfort. [PMC8242407]

It’s important to approach supplements and natural remedies for dysmenorrhea with caution and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most suitable approach to managing menstrual cramps based on your individual health and needs.

Our findings suggest that consuming sufficient protein, with a focus on fish, vitamin B12, vitamin D and zinc, as a part of daily meals and adopting lifestyle habits that raise the body temperature, such as having breakfast and taking a warm bath, may be effective in preventing and improving menstrual pain and PMS.

Severity of Menstrual Pain Is Associated with Nutritional Intake and Lifestyle Habits [PMC10178419]

Order Supplements For Managing Painful Periods

Why Professionals Choose the Fullscript Formulary

Your health is on the line. Health professionals know that many other online and retail options set a very low bar for quality–sometimes amazingly low. The Fullscript formulary is the most secure online source for the highest quality brands securely sourced to assure freshness and purity. Here’s what makes Fullscript the best:

• Meticulous vetting of brand quality. Health professionals trust Fullscript to continuously monitor the quality of each item on the platform. Other retailers operate with profit as their highest or only motive when choosing brands. Fullscript cares only about quality and reliability. Unlike discount stores, large online marketplaces, and other retailers you won’t find ingredients sourced from China or other questionable locations or companies.
• Always 20% Discount off the manufacturer’s retail price. When you follow any link from Supplement-Sciences.com, you will automatically get 20% off the retail price.
• Free shipping over $50.
• Freshness. Fullscript prioritizes freshness over bulk buying even if it means an increased risk of briefly being out of stock.
• Top quality phone and online support. When you call, knowledgeable humans at Fullscript answer your questions.
• How It Works:
  • Easy Sign-up & No Spam Email: Click the “View Product” button below to be taken to Fullscript’s login page where you can quickly create your secure account with just your name, email, and phone number. Then you will be taken directly to the product page.
  • Wide variety of supplement options: Once you sign in to your account, you are not limited to the products listed below. You will see similar items listed at the bottom of each product page on Fullscript.
  • Search For What You Want: Once inside Fullscript, you can search for the exact brands and products you want from their wide selection of quality brands.

When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.

Thank you for your support!

Are These Supplements Safe?

When it comes to managing dysmenorrhea, a variety of supplements like Magnesium, Thiamine, Omega-3, GLA Fatty Acids, Calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Cinnamon, Fennel, Ginger, Valerian Root, and Chamomile have been extensively researched and are safe for use in alleviating menstrual pain and discomfort. Studies have shown promising results, suggesting that they can effectively reduce cramping and inflammation associated with dysmenorrhea.

Medication Interactions:

• Antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline, quinolones): Magnesium supplements may bind to antibiotics, reducing their absorption and effectiveness.
• Diuretics: Thiamine supplements may interact with diuretics, increasing the risk of thiamine deficiency.
• Alzheimer’s medications (e.g., donepezil): Thiamine absorption may be interfered with by certain medications used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
• Blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin, aspirin): Omega-3, Vitamin E, and Ginger supplements may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications.
• Cholesterol-lowering medications: Omega-3 supplements may interact with certain cholesterol-lowering drugs, affecting their effectiveness.
• Epilepsy medications: GLA Fatty Acids supplements may interact with medications used to treat epilepsy, possibly reducing their effectiveness.
• Antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline, quinolones): Calcium supplements may interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics.
• Thyroid medications: Calcium supplements may reduce the effectiveness of certain thyroid medications.
• High blood pressure medications (e.g., thiazide diuretics): Vitamin D supplements may interact with medications used to treat high blood pressure, may increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
• Cholesterol-lowering medications: Vitamin D supplements may interfere with certain cholesterol-lowering medications.
• Blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin, aspirin): Vitamin E supplements may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications.
• Cancer medications: Vitamin E supplements may interfere with the absorption of certain medications used to treat cancer.
• Blood-thinning medications: Cinnamon supplements may interact with blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
• Diabetes medications: Cinnamon supplements may affect blood sugar levels and interact with medications used to treat diabetes.
• Hormone-sensitive condition medications (e.g., breast cancer medications): Fennel supplements may interact with medications used to treat hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer.
• Benzodiazepines, central nervous system depressants: Valerian Root supplements may enhance the sedative effects of medications such as benzodiazepines or central nervous system depressants.
• Insomnia or anxiety medications: Valerian Root supplements may interact with medications used to treat insomnia or anxiety.
• Benzodiazepines, central nervous system depressants: Chamomile supplements may enhance the sedative effects of medications such as benzodiazepines or central nervous system depressants.
• Blood-thinning medications: Chamomile supplements may interact with blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Supplement Interactions:

• Magnesium: Enhances absorption and effectiveness of calcium for bone health, regulates vitamin D levels potentially enhancing its absorption and utilization, and works synergistically with vitamin E to support muscle function and overall health.
• Thiamine: Part of the vitamin B complex, enhancing energy metabolism and nervous system function when taken alongside other B vitamins, and works with magnesium to support nerve function and muscle relaxation.
• Omega-3: Complementary anti-inflammatory effects with GLA fatty acids, reducing inflammation throughout the body, and works synergistically with vitamin D to support immune function and bone health.
• GLA Fatty Acids: Have complementary effects on inflammation and cardiovascular health when taken with omega-3.
• Calcium: Works with magnesium to support muscle function and bone health, and absorption is facilitated by vitamin D, enhancing bone health when taken together.
• Vitamin D: Aids in calcium absorption and utilization, enhancing bone health, and works synergistically with omega-3 to support immune function and cardiovascular health.
• Vitamin E: Provides synergistic support for muscle function and overall health when taken with magnesium.
• Cinnamon: Has complementary effects on inflammation and digestive health when taken with ginger.
• Fennel: Works with ginger to support digestive health and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Ginger: Has complementary effects on inflammation and blood sugar regulation when taken with cinnamon, and works with fennel to support digestive health and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Valerian Root: Has complementary effects on relaxation and sleep when taken with chamomile.
• Chamomile: Works with valerian root to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

Food First!

Although this article discusses supplements in detail, don’t forget that we are absolutely committed to the “Food First” approach to nutrition. When it comes to your health, the totality of your eating habits far surpasses the impact of individual nutrients or any single supplement you consume. Even though this article doesn’t delve into the broader picture of your overall diet, it’s crucial to keep this element at the forefront of our minds. Your food needs to provide all the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals to nourish your body systems down to the cellular level.

Food choices, rather than supplements, are the most critical factors for a healthy gut microbiome. These trillions of tiny inhabitants in your gut affect your brain waves; they orchestrate your immune system. They possess the power to create molecules that can switch genes on or off and are even capable of synthesizing neurotransmitters. Opting for organic foods and steering clear of plastic packaging (including those labeled BPA-free) is a smart move to limit toxin exposure. The sum of all these parts leads to a powerful conclusion: the ultimate key to your health lies in the quality and balance of the food you consume. Supplements are secondary.

To Sum It Up

The health benefits of magnesium, thiamine, omega-3 fatty acids, GLA fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin E, cinnamon, fennel, ginger, valerian root, and chamomile for dysmenorrhea are diverse and noteworthy. Magnesium aids in muscle relaxation, while thiamine supports nerve function. Omega-3 and GLA fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties, and calcium contributes to muscle function. Vitamin D regulates hormone levels, while vitamin E acts as an antioxidant. Cinnamon and ginger exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, and fennel aids in digestive health. Valerian root and chamomile promote relaxation and may alleviate discomfort. However, consulting with a Registered Dietitian is advisable to determine the most suitable supplements and doses for individual needs. While these supplements offer potential relief, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If experiencing severe or persistent menstrual pain, seeking evaluation and treatment from a healthcare provider is essential.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The Supplement Sciences website seeks to provide comprehensive access to the most relevant supplement information along with convenient online ordering. We do not provide medical advice and cannot guarantee that every product suggested is completely without risk. Since each person is unique in their health history and medication use, it is important to discuss supplements with your personal physician. Specifically, pregnant women and individuals being treated for cancer or liver or kidney problems must consult their physician about every nutritional supplement they plan to take. People taking medications for the treatment of HIV or with a history of organ transplant must not take supplements without consulting with their physician.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The Supplement Sciences website seeks to provide comprehensive access to the most relevant supplement information along with convenient online ordering. We do not provide medical advice and cannot guarantee that every product suggested is completely without risk. Since each person is unique in their health history and medication use, it is important to discuss supplements with your personal physician. Specifically, pregnant women and individuals being treated for cancer or liver or kidney problems must consult their physician about every nutritional supplement they plan to take. People taking medications for the treatment of HIV or with a history of organ transplant must not take supplements without consulting with their physician.