Do you ever feel like your period is the worst time of the month? It's not just you – one in eight women experience period cramps during their menstrual cycle. Period cramps, which vary from person to person, are caused by the contraction of the muscles and blood vessels in the uterus, which can cause discomfort and even severe pain in the lower abdomen and back. But you don't have to suffer through it – there are plenty of easy and natural remedies you can try to ease your pain.

One of the simplest ways to relieve period cramps is to use a hot water bag. Fill it up with hot water, then place it on your tummy to ease the pain. You can also make yourself a hot tea to keep your tummy warm and soothe your muscles. And if you're on-the-go, try using heating patches for discrete relief.

Contrary to popular belief, exercise can also help to relieve period cramps. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, which are chemicals produced by the body to help block the perception of pain. Just be sure to choose light exercises to avoid over-exerting your body, especially if you're feeling more fatigued than usual during your menstrual cycle.

Of course, prevention is key when it comes to period cramps. Ensuring that your body is strong and healthy can help to reduce the severity of your cramps. This means maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and taking in supplements like vitamin B1, iron, and magnesium to reduce fatigue and period cramps during your menstrual cycle. These essential vitamins and minerals can also be found naturally in foods like nuts, spinach, cauliflower, tofu, avocado, and oranges.

The most important thing is to listen to your body. If you're experiencing period cramps that impact your daily tasks, you can take a pain reliever to help dull the pain temporarily. However, if you're experiencing severe pain every menstrual cycle, you may want to consider seeing a doctor to better understand the cause.

By taking care of your body with a healthy diet and the right remedies, you can feel your best even during your menstrual cycle. And if you need any help finding the right products to relieve your period cramps, head over to your nearest City Care outlet and speak to the pharmacist.