Period Pain

Period Pain

Most woman at some point in their lives experience period pains or dysmenorrhoea, the medical term for the condition. Studies estimate it is experienced by around 75% of young women and around 25-50% of adult woman.

For up to 20% of women the pain can be so severe that it stops them carrying out their normal day to day activities. In adolescent girls it is the most commonly given reason for absence from school with approximately 15% complaining of severe pain.

Women more likely to suffer from the condition include those whose periods started very young, who have lengthy periods and have not had children. The condition has also been shown to be more common in smokers.

What causes it?

The pain is thought to be caused by the excessive production of prostaglandins in the menstrual fluid, causing the womb to contract. For the majority of women, there is no reason for the pain; it is purely a part of the body’s natural menstruation process. In some women however, especially as they grow older, the symptoms may be associated with an underlying medical condition including fibroids, endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease. For this reason it is very important that women with severe or worsening symptoms consult their GP to have any medical reasons excluded.

What are the symptoms?

The pain is usually felt in the lower abdominal area but can spread to the thighs and back. In woman with no underlying cause it normally starts with the onset of the period and lasts for around 24- 72 hours. With medical conditions such as fibroids and endometriosis the pain starts before the period is due and lasts for longer. Other symptoms associated with the pain include nausea, diarrhoea, migraine, dizziness and mood swings.

What are the treatment options available?

There are various treatment options for the condition including over the counter (OTC) medicines, prescription medicines from your doctor, complementary and alternative therapies and self-help techniques.

Over the counter (OTC) medicines

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most effective medicines for relieving the pain .The two OTC medicines available are ibuprofen and naproxen. Brands of ibuprofen include Cuprofen and Nurofen. Naproxen used to only be available on prescription but is now available to buy as Feminax Ultra. Neither product should be used by anyone allergic to aspirin or NSAIDs nor who suffers from stomach or kidney problems. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking if you are taking any other medicines. Women who cannot take NSAIDs can take paracetamol based products instead including Feminax, Solpadeine and Propain.

From your doctor

Your doctor will check for any underlying medical conditions before prescribing any medicines. Medicines you may get prescribed include pain relievers, hormones including the contraceptive pill, antispasmodics for the cramps and anti-sickness medicines. In some women a hysterectomy can be a solution to the problem.

Complementary and alternative therapies

Some dietary supplements have been shown to help with the condition. These include fish oil supplements, ginger, vitamin B1, calcium and magnesium.
Other therapies available include acupuncture, Trans Electrical Stimulation (TENs) and magnetic therapy including the MN8 device by Ladycare which some women have found to be effective.

Self help techniques

•Camomile and mint tea. Mint can relax abdominal muscles
•A warm bath or hot water bottle. Alternatively a heat pack i.e. Cura-Heat can give relief for up to 12 hours
•Abdominal and back massages
•Exercise in some cases has been shown to be helpful
•Life style changes, including stopping smoking can reduce symptoms