How does magnesium help period pains

First up, what actually causes these monthly pains? “Pains can happen because of a rise in chemicals called prostaglandins, which cause the muscles and blood vessels of the uterus to contract, causing a cramping pain,” explains Dr Nina Fuller-Shavel, founder of women’s health clinic Synthesis Clinic.

For that reason, magnesium seems like a smart solution. As well as being widely known to help aid sleep due to its relaxing properties, the mineral is crucial for aiding proper muscle contractions and nerve transmissions throughout the body. And the uterus is no different.

“Magnesium can influence the contraction and relaxation of the uterine muscle and may inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins that cause cramps,” says Dr Fuller-Shavel.

Period pains: can magnesium supplements ease menstrual cramps?