Iranian researchers from the Kashan University of Medical Sciences recently conducted a study exploring the effects of acupressure for dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain/cramps).  30 young female college students with primary dysmenorrhea were selected and randomly assigned to either a acupressure treatment group or a control (n = 15).  Using a visual analog scale of pain researchers looked at pain levels prior to acupressure, immediately with acupressure, and then at 30 minute, 1 hour, 2 hour and 3 hour follow-ups. 

The study found that acupressure on the points SP 6 lowered pain symptoms significantly for up to 3 hours after an initial treatment.  This can easily be applied as a self treatment or by others and can reduce or even eliminate the need for pain medicines which have side effects if used too frequently.