If there’s one thing you know for sure during your period, it’s this: It’s the most uncomfortable time of the month (Hello, bloating, soft spots on your breast, and cramps!) While there are still no clear answers on what causes PMS, the Office on Women’s Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says it could be because of the hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.  So what really happens when you cringe in pain during your period? "Your uterus is a muscle, and it squeezes really hard,” says Susan Haas, M.D., an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Boston University. "Sometimes it can squeeze so hard it blocks the arteries coming into it. Just like in a heart attack, when the arteries are blocked, it causes pain,” she added. The good news? There are simple things you can do to banish that sakit ng puson. Here’s how: 

Place a heated pack on your lower tummy
When your dysmenorrhea takes a toll on you, consider putting a heat pack or a hand towel soaked in lukewarm water over your puson for about 15 minutes. The heat is said to open vessels that can improve blood flow, letting the pain dissipate. 

Drink tea

When in pain, drink tea—chamomile in particular. A study has found that chamomile tea contains compounds that may help fight infections due to colds and relieve menstrual cramps.  

Eat more greens
Eating your veggies can cure those stomach cramps. Registered nutritionist Kathy Smart says, "Try to have a mixture of everything. In terms of fighting cramps and PMS, 80 percent of it is nutrition. Stick to foods that are natural, low in sugar, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy whole grains, and nuts and seeds.” 

Exercise more

Don’t make cramps as an excuse to skip exercising. Do a routine that pumps up your heart rate and is something you can enjoy since exercise can fight both physical and emotional PMS symptoms. 

Photo: Flickr (Tipstimes); GIFS: Giphy