Dear sexepimp ,

Believe it or not, menstrual cramps actually serve a useful purpose! Your uterus is squeezing hard to remove its blood-filled lining in a hurry — those cramps are actually making your period go by faster! But that may be the last thing you want to hear when you're feeling the pain they can cause.

Keeping your body in good shape throughout your entire menstrual cycle can help keep menstrual discomfort under control. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains throughout the month. Take a multivitamin supplement to make sure you're getting all the nutrients that you need, and
exercise regularly.

If you don't want to take medicine, or you want some relief while waiting for medicine to kick in, try putting a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen. Having someone massage your lower back might help. Some women masturbate because they know that orgasms relax the uterus and release natural painkillers called endorphins into the bloodstream. Some health care providers also prescribe the birth control pill to help ease menstrual discomfort.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.