Wondering How to Get Rid of Period Cramps? OB/GYNs Recommend These 7 Products

“For mild period cramps, the Rael Heating Patch makes a lot of sense—especially if you’re on the go and want something small to carry in your purse,” says Sherry A. Ross, M.D., a women’s health expert and the author of She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women’s Health. Period. “Heat is a well-known treatment option for mild cramps. It relaxes the muscles of the uterus, which eases pain.” Affix the herb-infused patch on your lower abdomen for therapeutic heat that stays put and provides relief for up to six hours.

There’s a reason hot water bottles have been recommended for cramp relief for, well, ever. They work. “When applied to the lower abdominal area, a hot water bottle helps relax the tense muscles associated with cramping,” Dr. Ross explains. And according to Amazon reviews, this model is a great choice because it “stays hot for a couple of hours” and “never leaks.” The knitted cover simply makes it extra snuggly.

Aromatherapy massage can help with mild menstrual cramps, explains Dr. Ross. Lavender oil, one of the ingredients in this essential-oil blend, has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which helps treat mild cramping, she adds. Spray it directly onto the area where you’re experiencing cramps and massage it into the skin. Pro tip: You can also spritz some onto your temples if you suffer from PMS-induced headaches.

“CBD is the active ingredient in marijuana that helps your body feel good. In this case, it will relax the pelvic muscles and distract your brain from feeling the pain associated with menstrual cramping,” says Dr. Ross. Apply this all-natural salve to your lower abdomen, and the organic CBD, lavender oil and eucalyptus will work quickly to soothe muscles and reduce inflammation. Bye, cramps and backache.

Feminine care brand Blume claims this mixture of clary sage, peppermint, lemon, bergamot and geranium can ease cramps and calm your PMS symptoms—yes, even those mood swings. Simply roll it onto your abdomen in circular motions, then massage it into the skin. “The essential oils in this product have been found to be a helpful aromatherapy treatment for mild period cramps,” confirms Dr. Ross.

“Heat is a tried and true method. A hot bath, a hot water bottle or a heating pad are all very effective for treating cramps,” says Suzanne Gilberg-Lens, M.D., a women’s health expert and ob-gyn at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills. This soft microfiber version offers multiple heat settings and more than 8,000 five-star reviews that speak to its efficacy.

While you might consider reaching for a bottle of Midol for its PMS-specific claims, Dr. Gilberg-Lenz actually recommends taking an NSAID like Advil. That’s because ibuprofen, the active ingredient in Advil, is more effective in fighting inflammation and cramps than acetaminophen (which is found in Midol and Tylenol).