Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Types of Menstruation Treatments?

Marisa O'Connor
Marisa O'Connor

Menstruation treatments come in a wide variety of forms. The treatment depends on the symptoms experienced. Normally, sanitary napkins, tampons, and over-the-counter menstruation medication is enough to treat symptoms. If menstrual problems are present, such as dysmenorrhea or menorrhea, additional remedies can be used. Many natural, home remedies can be implemented to relieve symptoms of a painful or heavy period, including red meat, basil, and buckwheat, to name a few.

Menstruation itself doesn't necessarily need to be treated. It is a natural and healthy function of the female reproductive system. The type of menstruation treatments most used are more about managing the period rather than treating it. Sanitary napkins and tampons are the most common treatments for normal menstruation. They are made from absorbing materials, like cotton, and serve as a protective barrier between the menstrual blood and the woman's clothing. Many different brands and sizes are available to meet any woman's needs.

Red meat is a good source of iron, which is lost during menstruation.
Red meat is a good source of iron, which is lost during menstruation.

Besides managing the blood shed during menstruation, other menstruation treatments are available to treat side effects. The most common type of menstruation treatment is over-the-counter medication. There are custom-made pain relief medications available, such as Midol, that target the specific symptoms of menstruation. These symptoms include abdominal cramps, headache, and bloating.

A woman with menstrual cramps.
A woman with menstrual cramps.

Some menstruation treatments can be found in a woman's own kitchen. Eating foods rich in iron and zinc are highly recommended home remedies for menstrual problems. Iron is easily depleted during any prolonged bleeding, including menstruation, and an insufficient level of iron in the body can exacerbate menstrual symptoms. Suggested foods to eat during menstruation include red meat, fortified breads and cereals, and citrus fruits. Poultry, fish, and green leafy vegetables are also great to eat during menstruation.

A tea made with basil may help relieve menstrual cramps.
A tea made with basil may help relieve menstrual cramps.

Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common menstrual problems. It describes a painful period. Most over-the-counter pain medications can treat dysmenorrhea. Some home menstruation treatments for dysmenorrhea include drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can make cramps worse. Putting a heated towel or water bottle on the abdomen can also relieve cramps. Other natural cramp relievers include basil, ginger, and mustard.

Buckwheat, which is high in bioflavonoids, can help relieve blood flow.
Buckwheat, which is high in bioflavonoids, can help relieve blood flow.

Menorrhea is another common ailment that requires menstruation treatment. Menorrhea is a heavy blood flow, which is most often caused by a deficiency in the blood, usually calcium. When taken with vitamin C, buckwheat can serve to reduce the heavy menstruation. Buckwheat is high in bioflavonoids, which are responsible for the blood flow relief. Buckwheat pancakes are a great and delicious way to reduce blood flow.

Discussion Comments

fify

@SteamLouis-- Have you tried herbal teas? I use a herbal tea that has a combination of various types of herbs. It's wonderful for menstruation bloating and pain. Last month, I had a cup of this tea every day before and during my menstruation. And guess what, there was no bloating whatsoever. I couldn't believe it either. I will continue to use it.

These teas are sold labeled for a woman's monthly cycle but you can also buy these herbs separately and use them as tea if you want.

The herbs/flowers listed in my tea are: senna, birch, juniper, wagtail, milfoil, daffoil and elder flowers.

SteamLouis

Green lentil is another great food rich in iron. It's suitable for vegetarians and vegans and relieves issues caused by iron loss during menstruation.

My biggest issue during menstruation is bloating. I get so bloated that it's uncomfortable. I can't fit into my clothes and I feel like I'm going to explode. I just hate it.

bluedolphin

I was going to say also that menstruation is not an illness, therefore it doesn't require a treatment. I wouldn't want young girls who are just starting to get their first period to feel that this is abnormal or something that needs to be gotten rid of. This is a natural part of being a woman and everyone gets used to it. In fact, after some time, if the period is late for some reason, it creates more issues physically and psychologically. And one desires the period to occur and arrive on time.

Young women need to be educated about menstruation. I urge mothers to put together a menstruation basket for their daughters with sanitary napkins of various sizes, a booklet about menstruation and pain reliever for cramps.

Supervise them through the process and teach them that this is nothing to be ashamed of. Make sure that they ask you before taking a pain relieving medication and make sure they know about the correct doses to prevent accidents and overdosing. Teach them how to apply sanitary napkins and if they absolutely prefer, tampons. Although I don't think young women should use tampons as they may leave it in for far too long and develop an infection.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Red meat is a good source of iron, which is lost during menstruation.
      By: Artyshot
      Red meat is a good source of iron, which is lost during menstruation.
    • A woman with menstrual cramps.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      A woman with menstrual cramps.
    • A tea made with basil may help relieve menstrual cramps.
      By: Barbara Pheby
      A tea made with basil may help relieve menstrual cramps.
    • Buckwheat, which is high in bioflavonoids, can help relieve blood flow.
      By: Vidady
      Buckwheat, which is high in bioflavonoids, can help relieve blood flow.
    • Tampons are used to soak up the blood during menstruation.
      By: matka_Wariatka
      Tampons are used to soak up the blood during menstruation.
    • As menstruation is normal for women, it typically doesn't need to be treated, but sometimes must be managed according to its symptoms.
      By: lukasmajercik
      As menstruation is normal for women, it typically doesn't need to be treated, but sometimes must be managed according to its symptoms.
    • Sanitary napkins and tampons are the most common treatments for normal menstruation.
      By: DoraZett
      Sanitary napkins and tampons are the most common treatments for normal menstruation.
    • Sanitary napkins are available in different sizes, shapes and levels of absorbency.
      By: lukasmajercik
      Sanitary napkins are available in different sizes, shapes and levels of absorbency.
    • An ice pack may help relieve pain associated with menstrual cramps.
      By: overcrew
      An ice pack may help relieve pain associated with menstrual cramps.