How do you get rid of cramps naturally? The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) advocate acupuncture for the relief of menstrual cramps.

One study, published in the European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Biology, evaluated acupuncture on women who couldn't get pain relief from ibuprofen or other over-the-counter medications. They found that acupuncture provided significant pain reduction without any of the negative side effects associated with taking drugs, such as intestinal sensitivity.

Taking birth control pills, either cyclically (for 21 days) or continuously (for 28 days), prevents ovulation, so it's no surprise that while on the pill you will no longer have the hormonal triggers linked to cramps and pain. However, check with your doctor before using birth control pills to get rid of menstrual cramps. These pills can cause blood clots in women over age 35 or in those who are overweight, and there are other factors you may want to consider.