Cramps are one of the most unpleasant side effects that come with your monthly menstrual cycle. Whether you feel them in your stomach, back or legs, cramps can cause a lot of discomfort and make it difficult to complete your daily tasks. However, if you make some lifestyle changes, you can relieve some of the pain. Here are five helpful tips for decreasing period cramps:

Change Your Diet

Your diet can go a long way in helping relieve menstrual cramps. If you cut fatty and fried foods out of your diet and eat more nutritious items, like vegetables, fruits, nuts and fish, you may notice an improvement in your cramps. Also, try to reduce your caffeine intake during your menstrual cycle, as it can make cramps worse.

Try a Heating Pad

When you are suffering from menstrual cramps, try putting a heating pad on the affected area. Heat increases blood flow to the skin, which can help decrease pain. Keep the heating pad on the area until you feel the pain subsiding. If there is not a heating pad around, try soaking in a hot tub.

Get Out and Exercise

Exercise is probably the last thing on your mind when you are dealing with menstrual cramps. However, a little physical activity can actually boost your endoprhins and decrease pain. Try doing a low-intensity exercise during your menstrual cycle, like walking or yoga.

Consider Birth Control

Preventing pregnancy is not the only thing birth control is good for. It can also reduce cramps at that time of the month. The next time you visit your gynecologist, discuss your birth control options with him or her. He or she can help you choose the right birth control for your needs.

Give Acupuncture a Chance

If your menstrual cramps have been really bothering you, think about acupuncture. During this holistic treatment, a trained acupuncturist will insert thin needles in certain parts of your body to reduce muscular contractions and ultimately relieve pain. If you work with a skilled and experienced acupuncturist, you should feel minimal discomfort during this treatment.

You do not have to deal with menstrual cramps for the rest of your life. If you follow these helpful tips, you can relieve pain and feel much better. However, if you still experience severe cramps during your period, see your gynecologist soon so that he or she can check for underlying health issues.