Lie down if possible at the first sign of pain, and place a warm heating pad on your abdomen. A relaxing, warm bath may also help. Seek advice from your pharmacist about suitable painkillers. Over the counter medications may be very helpful. For maximum relief, take painkillers before the pain gets too bad.
Massage can ease menstrual cramps.
Gently rub your abdomen, or ask your partner to massage your back. Exercise routines, practiced throughout your cycle, but particularly a few days before the onset of your period may help to reduce pain by lowering your levels of prostaglandins. Exercise also helps to keep the blood flowing in your pelvis, easing that heavy, bloated feeling. Women who do not ovulate, that is produce a mature egg each month, will rarely have menstrual cramps. Your doctor may prescribe a hormone treatment to stop ovulation.