Having your period can be a pain in itself. Then there are those period cramps we sometimes have to deal with. Not every girl gets cramps, but many do. Cramps usually begin during the first three years of your period. The good news is, there are some things you can do to ease the discomfort of period cramps.

Relieve aches and pains with over-the-counter pills. Try a little light exercise. Activity makes many women feel better. Apply some heat. Warmth can often soothe period cramps. Take a long, hot bath or place a hot water bottle or heating pad on your stomach. Give yourself a gentle massage. Gently rubbing or massaging your abdomen can often relieve cramps. Eat less salt. Drink more water. That “huge” feeling you get each month is caused by increased hormones that make you retain water, which in turn makes body tissue swell. So, drink more water and eat less salt. You'll help relieve bloating and headaches—and you might even feel more comfy in your favorite jeans! Limit caffeine. As tough as it is to cut back on those grande, extra hot, no whip mochas, taking in less caffeine does help some women feel better. Get enough sleep. It's much easier to deal with discomfort when you're not tired and cranky. Try to catch a few extra z's if you can.