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For some people, periods are a nuisance that happens monthly, but for others, periods may be associated with painful cramps that can affect their day to day. There are different options for how period pains can be relieved, from warm compresses to period meds.
Dysmenorrhoea (more commonly known as period pains) is a condition experienced by many people during their menstrual cycle. It usually feels like a cramping or aching pain in the lower abdomen that can be mild to severe. Some people describe the pain moving to the lower back and thighs. In more severe cases, people may experience vomiting, diarrhoea, and headaches.
The pain is attributed to the uterus contracting when it sheds its lining. The contractions are triggered by a substance called prostaglandins, so higher levels of prostaglandins have been linked to stronger and more painful period cramps.
Medication can be incredibly useful in helping manage period pain symptoms and targeting the causes of the pain.
o NSAIDs can decrease the levels of prostaglandins which can therefore reduce the intensity and pain from uterine contractions.
o These can use hormones to help regulate the menstrual cycle which can result in periods that are lighter in flow and less painful.
o In cases of endometriosis or fibroids, as well as severe period pain that other medication was unsuccessful in managing, prescription medications may be needed
There are several types of pain relief medications that you can consider when thinking about relieving period pains. If you are unsure which one is right for you, you may wish to consult a medical professional. Here is a brief overview of types of menstruation pain relief medications:
| Period medicine | Overview |
| Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) | For example: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Aspirin NSAIDs tackle period pains by reducing inflammation and blocking prostaglandin production. Often sold under period pain specific brands such as Feminax. |
| Hormonal Contraceptives | For example: Birth control pills, Birth control patches, and Intrauterine devices (IUDs) These tackle menstrual pains by using hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle. |
| Antispasmodics | For example: Hyoscine Butylbromide These work by relaxing the muscles of the uterus to reduce the intensity and pain from contractions during periods. |
| Prescription Medications | For cases where other pain relief has not worked or in specialist cases such as endometriosis, your doctor may prescribe stronger medication that may be more suitable. |
The numerous options of pain killer for periods out there may feel overwhelming so it is useful to step back and think about your personal preferences, any underlying medical conditions you may have, and how serious or intense your symptoms are.
– If you have mild-moderate pain, over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen (NSAIDs) should be effective in relieving menstrual pains
– If you have severe pain or an underlying health condition, you should seek advice from a medical professional who may:
o Recommend that you trial hormonal contraceptives to regulate your periods
o Prescribe stronger medication
If your period pain persists or gets worse, you should consult a medical professional. They will also be able to address any worries about side effects and check for interactions with other medications you are taking.
The most common over-the-counter menstrual pain relief drugs for period pain is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. You can usually find ibuprofen in supermarkets, making them a relatively accessible, affordable, and effective option. Over-the-counter drugs are generally quite good and relieving mild to moderate menstrual pain.
However, if you are experiencing severe period pains or you have an underlying health condition, prescription medication may be more suitable for you. These might be stronger NSAIDs, hormonal contraceptives, or specialist medication to treat a condition like endometriosis. It would be beneficial to get advice from a medical professional.
As well as medical interventions, several natural remedies have been suggested to help with period pains. The more common natural ingredients for menstrual pain include:
Managing menstrual pain is most effective when combining healthy habits, self-care, and medication if needed. For example:
o Put a hot water bottle or another heating pad on your tummy when you feel period cramps or pain. This can help relax your muscles and reduce the pain from the cramps.
o Keeping up regular physical activity but selecting low-impact options such as walking or yoga may help reduce pain and help you relax.
o Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated is important for your overall health and may help reduce period pains and associated symptoms such as bloating.
o Make sure to get enough sleep to help you destress and help regulate hormones. It may also help with the uncomfortable period symptoms.
o You may opt to take some painkillers like ibuprofen to help relieve the pain.
If you have tried all of this and are still suffering from serious period pains then you should consult a medical professional.
Although most period pain relief uk medications are generally safe to take, it is still important to be careful and be aware of possible side effects.
– Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can lead to indigestion, tummy aches, or gastric ulcers if taken for long periods of time or in high doses.
– Hormonal contraceptives can be associated with weight gain, changes to mood, and some may increase your risk of blood clots
Always follow the recommended dosage and consult a medical professional if you experience side effects. Equally, if you have any underlying conditions or are taking medication or supplements regularly, please inform a medical professional before you start menstrual pain medication so they can help you pick an option that is safe and suitable for you.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally some of the most effective medications for period pains. The added positive is that NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are generally easy to find and relatively cheap.
Hormonal contraceptives have also been shown to have largely positive effects on treating menstrual pain. However, they may not be preferable for everyone as the hormonal side effects can be off-putting.
It depends, over-the-counter painkillers for period pain uk such as ibuprofen and naproxen (types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are generally quite effective at relieving menstrual cramps but some people may require different or stronger medication to treat severe menstrual cramps.
If you experience severe menstrual cramps, you should speak to a medical professional who may suggest prescription medications or hormonal treatment.
Naproxen and ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) usually act fairly quickly. You may start to feel the menstrual pain ease within half an hour to one hour as the medication counters the pain and inflammation.
On the other hand, you may need to wait up to a few months for hormonal contraceptives to reduce period pains and regulate the menstrual cycle.
Yes, it is widely believed that consuming natural ingredients believed to have pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties (e.g ginger and turmeric) as well as using essential oils for aromatherapy can help in managing mild-to-moderate period pain.
In fact, even if you take medication for period pain it is advised that you also supplement with lifestyle changes such as a warm compress on your tummy, regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate rest.
For severe menstrual cramps however, you may find that these natural alternatives are not enough and medication is needed.
Broadly speaking, yes, it is safe to use menstruation pain medications such as ibuprofen (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs) or hormonal contraceptives every cycle.
Make sure to follow the recommended dosage and seek advice from a doctor if you have worries or notice any adverse side effects. For instance, long term heavy usage of NSAIDs may need monitoring due to side effects such as indigestion and risks of gastric ulcers.
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