Menstruation can cause great discomfort for some girls. In many cases, pain-relieving medications can help reduce symptoms such as cramps. However, these medications should not be taken without first consulting a physician. Hot baths or use of heating pads or hot water bottles can also ease cramps.

Other steps that can be taken to reduce discomfort associated with menstruation include:

• Dietary changes. Eating fruits and vegetables and reducing intake of salt and caffeine may help. Chips, crackers and other processed foods should also be avoided.
  
  
• Supplements. Taking supplements with magnesium, B-complex vitamins and calcium may reduce symptoms. However, these should not be taken without first consulting a physician.
  
  
• Regular exercise. Brisk walks, bike rides, yoga and other exercise can release endorphins that may make menstruating girls feel better.

More serious menstrual problems that require medical care can be treated with prescription medications (e.g., birth control pills or other medications that contain estrogen or progesterone) or surgery (e.g., to remove uterine polyps or fibroids).