Period Pain
Period pains come about as a result of the release of prostaglandins, chemical messengers that control the strength of the contractions of the womb. The womb contracts to shed its extra lining and the unfertilised egg. If these contractions are especially strong, some women will suffer from period pains. The higher the level of prostaglandin in the womb, the stronger the contractions will be.
More than half of the women in Britain suffer from period pains at one time or another. In fact, it is because so many women do suffer, that period pains are often accepted as an unavoidable fact of life. Fortunately, this is not entirely true and there are a number of effective ways of reducing the pain.
Although the intensity and duration of period pains varies from person to person, they always occur in the lower abdomen, although they can spread to the legs and back. In addition, the cramping sensation feels very different from any other kind of stomach pain. For some women, they start at the first day of the period, whilst for others they start just before. The pain can last as little as two or three hours, or as long as two to three days, and can be sharp and stabbing or a dull, steady ache.
Pain relievers that contain aspirin or ibuprofen, such as Anadin* Extra (Aspirin 300mg, Paracetamol 200mg, Caffeine 45mg) or Anadin Ultra* (Ibuprofen 200mg), are effective for period pain as they inhibit the production of prostaglandin in the womb.
Additional tips:
- Taking a warm bath or using a hot water bottle encourages the muscles to relax
- Eat a healthy diet, as constipation has an effect on the pain
- Take gentle exercise to relax the muscles
Always read the label
*Trade Mark