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Suffering from Period Pain? You’re Not Alone

Suffering from Period Pain? You’re Not Alone

This article has been scientifically reviewed for accuracy

If you have period pain, you’re not alone! Most women have experienced it. Those who get period pain usually find it starts 6 to 12 months after they start having menstrual periods, once they become regular.

In 5% to 10% of women, period pain can be severe enough to disrupt their lives. Some women may also have bloating, tender breasts, struggle to concentrate, mood swings, clumsiness, and tiredness along with period cramps when their period starts.

Woman holding hot water bottle to her stomach

What causes period pain?

Period pain is caused by the contraction (tightening) of the womb. During your period, progesterone hormone levels drop causing endometrial cells in the womb to release chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause the wall of the womb to contract more vigorously (myometrial contractions. These contractions compress (squeeze) the blood vessels lining your womb, which temporarily decreases the blood and oxygen supply to your womb, resulting in period pain.

Ways to Help Relieve Period Pain

There are things you can do to relieve period pain, such as:

Warmth

Holding a hot water bottle wrapped in a tea towel, against your tummy or taking a warm bath or shower may help.

Exercise

Studies suggest that exercising for 45 to 60 Minutes, 3 times a week may help reduce period pain in some women. Either low intensity exercise such as yoga or high intensity such as aerobics eases pain better than not exercising.

Relax and take care of yourself

Stress and depression may contribute to how severely we feel period pains. Exercise such as low-intensity yoga or high-intensity aerobics may provide a large reduction in the intensity of period pain, compared to not doing anything.

Pain-relieving medicine

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, the active ingredient in Nurofen, are recommended to help relieve period pain. Ibuprofen is a type of pain killer called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (or NSAID).

When to Seek Medical Attention

See a GP if you have severe period pain or your normal pattern of periods changes – for example, if your periods become heavier than usual or irregular. It’s also a good idea to seek medical help if you have pain during sex or when peeing or pooing.

This medicine may not be right for you. Read the label before purchase. Follow the directions for use. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional.

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.

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