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Natural Remedies for Period Pain

Self-help Measures for Period Pain

This article has been scientifically reviewed for accuracy

For some women, there are times when periods might cause painful symptoms. If you’re one of those women and you’re looking for something to ease your discomfort, such as a remedy or things you can do at home, then you might find this article helpful.

Period pain is common. Women may experience different types of pain and associated symptoms including nausea. These can be at varying intensity leading up to and, or during her period. There are some ways that may help to relieve or ease your symptoms, from remedies to lifestyle changes. Some things may work for some women, whilst others may be less helpful. We’ll discuss options you can try, to see what might help you to carry on doing the things you love during your period.

What causes period pains?

Before a woman’s period starts, progesterone levels drop causing endometrial cells to release a chemical called “prostaglandins”. These stimulate muscles in the uterus to contract, which leads to less blood and oxygen, as well as pain in the uterus. Prostaglandins also affect muscles in the gut which for some women, can cause symptoms such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhoea during their periods.

Ways to help relieve Period Pains

Luckily, there are things you could try to help relieve pain during your period, including remedies and lifestyle measures.

Applying Heat

Some studies have shown that heat therapy may help to reduce period pains for some women during their periods. Putting a heat pad or hot water bottle on your tummy (wrapped in a tea towel to avoid burning or scalding your skin), may help reduce period pains. It’s thought that heat may help by increasing blood flow to the area where it’s applied, and by interfering with pain signals from the area to the brain. Taking a warm bath or shower may also help.

Massage the Area

Another self-help method that some women find helpful, is massage. You could either ask someone else to gently rub or massage your back and lower abdomen or you might find that massaging your own abdomen, may help bring relief.

Regular Exercise

Some gentle, low intensity exercise like yoga, swimming, walking or cycling could also help reduce period pain. Some women find that regular exercise also helps with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome can interfere with your daily activities. It can include physical symptoms such as:

Tender or swollen breasts
Bloated tummy
Swollen hands or feet
Weight gain
Increased headaches

PMS can also affect a woman emotionally (such as her mood, anxiety, confidence and tension) and her behaviour (such as her thinking and attention).

Relaxation

Trying exercise relaxation programmes before your period is due and on the first few days, may help relax the muscles and improve blood supply to the area of your abdomen, where your uterus is (pelvis).

Stop Smoking

Smoking is thought to increase the risk of experiencing period pain as it may reduce oxygen to the pelvis . Cutting down or stopping smoking can improve your general health, including your physical and mental wellbeing. It may also improve blood flow to muscles and reduce your risk of disease like stroke, cancer, lung and heart disease.

Over-the-Counter Painkillers

If you are experiencing period pain, you can also try taking over the counter (OTC) painkillers to help ease your symptoms. NSAID Medicines with anti-inflammatory properties can be helpful. Paracetamol is another option for period pain. Ibuprofen is an NSAID medicine with anti-inflammatory properties and is considered to be effective at helping to relieve period pain. Nurofen Express 200mg Liquid Capsules contain ibuprofen for pain relief including period pain relief. It starts to get to work in 8 minutes*, providing up to 8 hours relief with a 400mg dose.

*refers to absorption

When to speak to a doctor about your period pains

Period pains can sometimes affect your well-being and restrict your daily activities, such as school or work. However, if your period pains are severe, worse than usual or you’re unable to get relief from self-help or pain killers, it’s advisable to speak to your doctor immediately. You should also speak to your GP if:

Your periods change – they’re heavier, more painful than usual or irregular

You have pain during sex or when pooing or peeing

You’re bleeding between periods

FAQs

What Causes Period Pains?

Period pains are caused by painful cramps usually in the lower abdomen (pelvis) shortly before or during periods (menstruation). The pain can occur when progesterone decreases. This causes cells in the uterus to release chemicals called prostaglandins, leading to contractions, restricted blood flow and oxygen as well as pain in the uterus.

What is the Most Appropriate Natural Remedy for Your Period Pain?

The most appropriate natural remedy for period pain depends on each person. You need to experiment with a range of options and see which ones work best for you. Keeping a diary of your symptoms and the remedies you’ve tried, may also help you understand what works for you.

Is there a fast way to Relieve Period Cramps?

You may find that some remedies work faster than others. You could apply heat by using a hot water bottle or heat pad or take a warm bath or shower to relieve pain. You could also try a painkiller such as Nurofen Express 200mg Liquid Capsules. It starts to get to work in 8 minutes,** providing up to 8 hours relief with a 400mg dose.

What about Herbal Remedies for Period Pain?

Herbal medicines are made from parts of plants, such as leaves, roots or flowers. Being classified as "natural" doesn't necessarily mean they're safe for you to take. Like conventional medicines, herbal medicines can influence the body and may be harmful if they’re not used correctly. Herbal products may lack the scientific evidence to prove that it works effectively. If you choose to use herbal medicines, make sure that they comply with the relevant quality standards relating to safety and manufacturing. Herbal products are only appropriate for conditions that can be self-medicated, like coughs or general aches or pains.

This article is not meant for self elf diagnosis, always seek medical advice if you have any concerns.

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