For millions of women around the world, the monthly pain and discomfort associated with their menstrual cycle is an all-too familiar part of being the fairer sex. The pain ranges from being a minor nuisance that is tolerable to a crippling condition that only bedrest and medication can ease.
Dysmenorrhea is the technical term for the pain association with menstruation. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary, which is more common, and secondary.
Primary dysmenorrhea is pain that is caused by excessive prostaglandin production. While pain is the most common sensation experienced, nausea, diarrhea and headaches may also occur.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by an abnormal uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. This may include infections, disease, or endometriosis. Women suffering from secondary dysmenorrhea will experience pain and cramping that lasts longer than their menstrual blood flow. While the only treatment for secondary dysmenorrhea is by medication, surgery or both, the pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea can actually be alleviated with exercise.
Exercise and Primary Dysmenorrhea
Beta-endorphins are released when the body is under stress or pain and act as a natural pain reliever, providing relief from menstrual cramps. To release beta-endorphins, you simply have to exercise.

That’s right. At a time when exercise is the absolute last thing you want to do, it’s the first thing you should do. Drag your miserable self out of bed, grab a drink of water and slip on those runners – it’s time to hit the gym to workout. Experts say that the best type of exercise is aerobic, so try some jogging or a good cardio class to ease those cramps. You can also talk to a personal trainer who can help you set a monthly fitness plan that can ease menstrual pain.
But don’t just workout when you’ve got period pain. Research has shown that regular exercise (4-5 times a week for at least 30 minutes) can help ease the intensity of cramping associated with primary dysmenorrhea.