Period Pain
Period pain refers to the discomfort or pain that women experience during their monthly menstrual cycle, as the uterus contracts to shed its lining. It can affect women from their early teens through to menopause.
It is very normal to experience period pain, with common symptoms including cramping and heaviness in the pelvic area, intense spasms, as well as pain in the lower back, stomach or legs.
Pain is usually at its worst when bleeding is heaviest, and often lasts for the first 48-72 hours (2-3 days) of a period.
Period pain is a universally accepted part of womanhood, but understanding how it works and what treatment is available might make that time of the month just a little bit easier.
Period pain symptoms
Period pain is experienced differently by each woman and can vary in intensity between different periods.
Pain often starts when bleeding begins, however, some women also experience pain several days before a period begins.
Some women experience mild or no discomfort, while others will experience severe pain which can be debilitating and disruptive to daily life. The most common symptoms women experience during a period include:
Abdominal cramps
Bloating
Lower back pain
Nausea
Diarrhea
Headaches
Is period pain and PMS the same?
No, they are different. Pre-menstrual syndrome, or PMS, is the physical and mental symptoms experienced in the 1-2 weeks before a period. PMS causes different symptoms (including some that overlap with period pain), such as weight gain, bloating, irritability and fatigue.
If your symptoms are extreme, last longer than your period, or differ from normal, it is recommended you see your GP.
Period cramps
Cramps are a very normal part of periods. Abdominal cramping can occur when chemicals called prostaglandins trigger the muscular walls of the uterus (womb) to contract or tighten.
Every month during a woman’s menstrual cycle, a series of events result in the activation of prostaglandins – they encourage the uterus to contract further to help shed the lining of the womb, further increasing the level of pain.
Not all women cramp during periods, however it’s a very common symptom.
How to treat period pain
Period pain is never fun, but there are several ways to help cope with and ease the discomfort of period pain:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are recommended as they inhibit the production of prostaglandin, thereby targeting the cause of period pain.
It might be useful to take these medications a few days before your period is due to reduce and help control pain symptoms.
Speak to your pharmacist about what may be right for you, for the following:
Contraceptive medication or devices – there are several different contraceptives available that contain hormones that can reduce the severity of period pain and regulate periods. It is essential to consult with a GP to discuss available options, the pros and cons, and what may be right for you. Learn more about contraception
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication, such as paracetamol
Hot water bottle or heat pack applied to the area of discomfort
Warm bath or shower
Wear loose-fitting clothing
Gentle exercise – such as yoga, swimming or walking. Exercise is thought to release endorphins (feel-good hormones)
Alternative therapies – meditation, acupuncture or TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) may assist with reducing period pain.
Lifestyle changes
may assist in the long-term management of period pain symptoms, and contribute to a greater quality of life overall.
Quit smoking – it’s believed smoking reduces the supply of oxygen to the pelvic area, which can make period pain worse
Reduce alcohol consumption
Eat fresh fruit and vegetables
Cut down on ‘junk foods’ – or foods high in fat, salt and sugar
Self-care – find time for relaxing or enjoyable activities that can take your mind off period pain and help elevate your mood. You might read a book, bake, watch a movie, take a bubble bath, light a candle, or practice yoga.
When to seek help
Period pain is a completely normal part of life, but sometimes the assistance of a GP may be needed.
If your pain is extreme, doesn’t go away with the use of pain relief, or if you are experiencing new or different symptoms to those commonly associated with period pain, it may be an indication of something more serious.
It is recommended you seek the assistance of a GP immediately, who can help.
While it’s an expected part of life for most women, there are lots of ways to help make your period easier. At MediADVICE, we are here to support you during your period (and every other day and week in the month) with expert advice and a range of products to help manage the symptoms of period pain, so you can get back to seizing the day.
Speak to us today about how we can help you manage your period with the right support.
If you’re experiencing period pain, we are here to help.
Speak to your local MediADVICE Pharmacist about your symptoms so we can recommend products and treatments that may be right for you, to help relieve pain and inflammation.
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Disclaimer
General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your healthcare professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your healthcare professional. Information current as of date of publishing.