Even though #periodsarenotaninsult (we're looking at you, Donald Trump), there's no getting around the fact that menstrual cramps still suck. So we decided it was high time to review exactly how to get rid of cramps so you can get on with your life.

First, where do cramps come from? Cramps occur during your period when hormones called prostaglandins trigger muscle contractions in your uterus (fun times) to help the uterus shed its lining. The result: pain and inflammation. The higher your levels of prostaglandins, the more severe your cramps. Usually, discomfort rolls in one to two days before your period and peaks within the first 24 hours of blood flow. (If menstrual cramps last longer than that and/or are very severe, see a doctor, because a secondary cause of menstrual cramping can come from conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease or uterine fibroids.)

About half of all women get menstrual cramps, and some 15 percent describe the pain as severe. Generally if you are younger than 20, have heavy bleeding, started puberty at age 11 or younger, or have never delivered a child, you get it the worst.

The jury is out on if you can prevent menstrual cramps: Some say regular exercise will help although that hasn't been proven. In fact, one study disproved the theory: Researchers at Birmingham University in England found that the amount that you work out does not impact the severity of your menstrual cramps. (To note: We're obviously not saying don't work out. Regular exercise can make you feel better during your period: endorphins are released, sleeping is improved, healthy eating is more likely. But it might not reduce your cramping.)

Instead try out these six tried and true ways to get rid of cramps.

So how do you get rid of cramps? The quickest and easiest way is to pop an over-the-counter pain reliever. Rather than reach for Tylenol, choose NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, and Nuprin) and naproxen (Aleve) relieve menstrual cramps on two fronts: they diminish pain and reduce uterine contractions.

Doctors recommend you start taking the drug as soon as there is any menstrual flow, or even the day before, if possible. Ibuprofen you can take two tablets three times a day. For naproxen, take up to one tablet three times a day. Never take both drugs together.

How about more natural cramp remedies? Everyone knows chamomile tea makes a good bedtime tea because it's calming, but researchers in England have found that drinking tea made with German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) also relieves muscle spasms, which the scientists hypothesize is the reason the tea appears to be helpful in relieving menstrual cramps; it relaxes the uterus. They also found that glycine, another ingredient in the tea, was found to act as a nerve relaxant, meaning it works as a pain reliever.

Dong Quai, derived from the root of the Chinese Angelica sinensis, has been used in Asia for thousands of years to heal the female reproductive system and get rid of cramps. Drinking tea made from this plant is said to promote uterine health and regulate the menstrual cycle.

Some researchers contend that its active ingredients, called coumarins, dilate blood vessels and relax the muscles of the uterus, which would help to explain the herb's traditional use for relieving menstrual cramps.

Yogi Tea's Moon Cycle formula includes Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) as well as Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus -- castus), which according to recent clinical research is effective in reducing symptoms of PMS. To calm hormonal influences and purify the skin and blood, Yogi Tea added Organic Raspberry Leaf, recognized by German Commission E for menstrual respite. Juniper Berry and Organic Parsley Leaf ease water retention and promote mineral and hormonal steadiness.

Foods high in magnesium are always essential, but can be particularly beneficial for getting rid of cramps. Dr. Mark Hyman, MD, founder and medical director of the UltraWellness Center, notes that depleted levels of magnesium can contribute to period cramp pains.

"Think of magnesium as the relaxation mineral," he says. "Anything that is tight, irritable, crampy and stiff -- whether it is a body part or an even a mood -- is a sign of magnesium deficiency."

High-magnesium foods include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, whole grains, avocados, yogurt, bananas, dried fruit and dark chocolate. Aim for about 300 milligrams a day. Buh-bye cramps, hello relaxed muscles.