Medical Health Encyclopedia

Some women report relief with reflexology, an acupuncture technique that uses manual pressure on acupuncture points on the ears, hands, and feet. The Relief Brief is an investigative acupressure panty product. It is made from cotton Lycra and applies specific acupressure points in the abdominal and pelvic area. In one interesting study, 90% of women who wore the Relief Brief reported at least 25% less pain and two thirds reported at least half as much pain. This warrants more research.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) applies electrodes to certain parts of the body and administered low-level electrical pulses to those locations. Researchers suggest that it works by altering the body's ability to receive pain signals. The standard approach is to give 80 to 100 pulses per second, for 45 minutes, three times a day; patients are barely aware of the sensation. A major 2002 analysis of a number of small studies suggested that this approach can help some women with dysmenorrhea. There may be some minor side effects.

Yoga and Meditative Techniques. Yoga and meditative techniques that promote relaxation may also be helpful for menstrual cramps.

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Chiropractic. Some women with primary dysmenorrhea have sought help from chiropractors trained in spinal manipulation. One study compared a high-force spinal manipulation technique with a low-force maneuver used as a placebo technique. Both showed lower scores on tests that measure pain, perhaps indicating that a simple back rub by a sympathetic partner or friend may be helpful.

Herbal and Other So-Called Natural Remedies for Cramp Relief. Studies have not found herbal or other so-called natural remedies to be any more effective than placebos for reducing menstrual disorders. In addition to possibly being ineffective, these remedies can be expensive.

• Ginger tea is safe and may help in relieving nausea.
• Valerian has been used by some women for menstrual cramps. This herb is listed on the FDA's list of generally safe products. Of note, however, its effects could be dangerously increased if it is used with standard sedatives. Other interactions and long-term side effects are unknown. As with all herbal remedies, the quality, safety, and effectiveness of specific products are not regulated.