Periods, painful

How can I treat period pain?

In most cases period pain is mild enough to treat at home.

Painkillers

You cantake ibuprofen and aspirin to help manage your pain.

However, don't take ibuprofen or aspirinif you have asthma or stomach, kidney or liver problems. Aspirin shouldn't be given to anyone under 16 years of age.

You could also try paracetamol ,but studies have shown that it doesn't reduce pain as effectively asibuprofen or aspirin.

If ordinary painkillers are ineffective, your GP may prescribe a stronger painkiller, such as naproxen or codeine.

Other things to try

Youcould also try:

stopping smoking smoking is thought to increase the risk of period pain
exercise you may not feel like exercising during a painful period, butkeeping active can reduce pain; try some gentle swimming , walking or cycling
heat putting a heat pad or hot water bottle (wrapped in a tea towel) on your tummy may help reduce pain
warm bath or shower taking a warm bath or shower can relieve pain and help you relax
massage light, circular massage around your lower abdomen may also help reduce pain
relaxation techniques relaxing activities, such as yoga or pilates , may help distract you from feelings of pain and discomfort
transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS) a small battery-operated device that delivers a mild electrical current to your tummy, which can help reduce pain

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for periods, painful

Introduction

Read about period pain (dysmenorrhoea), including associated symptoms, when to see your GP, causes, diagnosing underlying conditions, and treatment.

What causes period pain?

Period pain occurs when the muscular wall of the womb tightens (contracts). Mild contractions continually pass through your womb, but they're usually so mild that most women can't feel them. During y

How long will my period pain last?

Period pain usually starts when your bleeding begins, although some women have pain several days before the start of their period. The pain normally lasts 48 to 72 hours, although it can last longer.

How can I treat period pain?

In most cases period pain is mild enough to treat at home. Painkillers You cantake ibuprofen and aspirin to help manage your pain. However, don't take ibuprofen or aspirinif you have asthma or s

When should I see my GP?

See your 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. You should also see your GP if you have sympto

Can period pain affect fertility?

Period pain that's part of your normalmenstrual cycle won't affect your fertility. However,if the cause isan underlying condition, this may affect your fertility. For example, endometriosis and pelvi

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