Period pains are a natural part of female fertility and can occur during and sometimes just before a woman’s monthly period. Most women experience period pains to some degree on a regular monthly basis. In some women, the pain can be quite severe. Studies show that around fifty per cent of women claim that period pains seriously disrupt their lives.
Period pains are often worse in adolescence and tend to improve as women get older. Many women notice that their periods are less painful after they have had a baby.
Period pains are caused by contractions of the uterus. Contractions are necessary in order for the uterus to shed its delicate lining so that a new lining can be grown in the following monthly cycle. This process prepares the body for a potential pregnancy every 28 days or so.
In order to shed the lining, the body releases chemicals called prostaglandins which cause strong contractions and pain in the uterus.
These symptoms can start a day or so before the period starts and usually last between 12 and 48 hours:
If you have regular or severe period pain, please see your GP.
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Homeopathy has been traditionally used to relieve the symptoms of painful periods, and useful remedies include Mag phos, Dioscorea, Nux vom and Colocynthis. (Always read the label.)
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Acupuncture is primarily used to ease the symptoms of pain and can improve wellbeing and restore balance.
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Aromatherapy massages can be very helpful in relieving cramps and pain, stress and emotional imbalances associated with menstruating. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of chamomile, geranium or lavender oil to a warm bath.
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Manipulation such as chiropractic and osteopathy have been shown to be effective in treating sufferers of chronic period pains.
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Warmth can help relieve period pain by relaxing the stomach muscles.Try applying heat pads or a hot water bottle on your lower abdomen and lower back.
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There is some evidence that Vitamin B1, Omega 3 and magnesium supplements* can help reduce period pains.
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Iron supplements*, such as Spatone can be good for women whoexperience heavy periods.
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The gamodenic acid in Evening Primrose Oil, Starflower Oil and Blackcurrant Oil has also been shown in some studies to help with breast pain.
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Eat a balanced diet as being a healthy weight helps relieve period pains.
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Herbs such as Black & Blue Cohosh and Roman Chamomille have also been traditionally used for period pain.
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Gentle exercise can help as it relaxes the muscles and releases pain relieving endorphins. Try yoga or going for a brisk walk if anything else seems too much to handle.
*A food supplement must not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.
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