We're looking into the Science, Remedies and Treatments that help with Painful Period Pain and Cramps

Pharmacist Abraham, discusses Period Pain. How To Stop Period Cramps or Period Pain. Painful Period Relief, Reduce Period Pain, Remedies and Lots More.

In this weeks video we’re looking at How To Stop Painful Period Pain Cramps. This video consists of the current information on home remedies and treatments you can try to Stop Painful Period Pain Cramps.

VIDEO BREAKDOWN:

00:00 Period Pain | How To Stop Painful Period Pain Cramps

00:30 What Causes Period Pain | Painful Period Pain Cramps

01:17 Period Pain | How To Stop Painful Period Pain Cramps

06:30 How To Prevent Period Pain | Painful Period Pain Cramps

08:03 When To Seek Medical Advice For Period Pain | Painful Period Pain Cramps

PAINFUL PERIOD PAIN AND CRAMPS:

Period pain is common and a normal part of your menstrual cycle. Most women get it at some point in their lives.

It's usually felt as painful muscle cramps in the tummy, which can spread to the back and thighs. The pain sometimes comes in intense spasms, while at other times it may be dull but more constant.

It may also vary with each period. Some periods may cause little or no discomfort, while others may be more painful. Sometimes you may get pelvic pain even when you do not have your period.

WHAT CAUSES PAINFUL PERIOD PAIN AND CRAMPS:

Period pain happens when the muscular wall of the womb tightens (contracts). Mild contractions continually occur in your womb, but they're usually so mild that most women cannot feel them.

During your period, the wall of the womb starts to contract more vigorously to help the womb lining shed as part of your period.

When the wall of the womb contracts, it compresses the blood vessels lining your womb. This temporarily cuts off the blood supply – and oxygen supply – to your womb. Without oxygen, the tissues in your womb release chemicals that trigger pain.

While your body is releasing these pain-triggering chemicals, it's also producing other chemicals called prostaglandins. These encourage the womb muscles to contract more, further increasing the level of pain.

It's not known why some women have more period pain than others. It may be that some women have a build-up of prostaglandins, which means they experience stronger contractions.

HOW TO STOP PAINFUL PERIOD PAIN AND CRAMPS:

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

Painkillers:

You can take ibuprofen and aspirin to help manage your pain. However, do not take ibuprofen or aspirin if you have asthma or stomach, kidney or liver problems. Aspirin should not be taken by anyone under 16 years of age. You could also try paracetamol, but studies have shown that it does not reduce pain as well as ibuprofen or aspirin. As always, check with your Pharmacist which one might be best for you and read the information leaflet for everything you need to know before you take any medication.

If ordinary painkillers do not help, your GP may prescribe a stronger painkiller, such as naproxen or codeine.

Other self-help measures to try,

You could 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, but being active may 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 to help reduce pain

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE FOR PAINFUL PERIOD PAIN AND CRAMPS:

When should I see my GP?

See your healthcare professional if your period is unusual in any way, this could mean,

? A heavier period than what’s normal for you or if your periods suddenly don’t come on time or you have too many in a short period of time.

? You might notice a strange yellow or green discharge

? Any lumps around your pelvis area, experience extreme pain or sudden weight loss.

DISCLAIMER:

This video is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Abraham The Pharmacist has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Always consult a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.