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Painful Periods: Relief, Remedies, and What You Can Do to Feel Better


Menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea, are a common issue for many women and can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. If you experience painful periods, there are several approaches—natural remedies, dietary changes, and medications—that can provide relief and improve your quality of life.


What to do with painful periods
What to do with painful periods

What Causes Painful Periods?

Painful periods are caused by the release of prostaglandins, hormone-like chemicals that help the uterus contract to shed its lining. Higher prostaglandin levels are associated with more severe cramping. Underlying conditions, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or fibroids, can also intensify period pain.


Steps to Relieve Painful Periods

1. Medications for Pain Relief

  • Mefenamic Acid (Ponstan):

    • A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces prostaglandin production, easing cramps and reducing heavy bleeding.

    • Best taken at the start of your period or when symptoms begin for maximum effectiveness.

  • Ibuprofen or Naproxen:

    • Similar to mefenamic acid, these NSAIDs can reduce inflammation and pain. Always take with food to avoid stomach irritation.


2. Herbal Remedies and Natural Solutions

  • Raspberry Leaf Tea:

    • Known for its uterine toning properties, raspberry leaf tea may reduce the intensity of cramps and support overall menstrual health.

    • Drink 1-2 cups daily, starting a few days before your period and continuing during it.

  • Ginger:

    • Fresh ginger tea or ginger supplements can help reduce inflammation and relieve menstrual pain.

    • Brew fresh ginger slices in hot water or take a ginger supplement during your period.

  • Magnesium:

    • Helps relax muscles and reduce uterine contractions.

    • Found in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, or taken as a supplement.


3. Heat Therapy

  • A heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower abdomen can relax uterine muscles and alleviate cramps.

  • Heat is often as effective as NSAIDs in reducing period pain.


4. Gentle Exercise and Movement

  • Light activities like yoga, stretching, or walking increase blood flow and release endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers.


5. Dietary Adjustments

  • Anti-Inflammatory Diet:

    • Focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds), leafy greens, and whole grains.

    • Avoid processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol, which can exacerbate inflammation and cramping.

  • Hydration:

    • Drink plenty of water to prevent bloating, which can worsen cramps. Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can also help.


When to See a Doctor

If period pain is severe, lasts longer than usual, or interferes with your daily life, consult a healthcare provider. You may need further evaluation for underlying conditions such as:

  • Endometriosis

  • Adenomyosis

  • Uterine fibroids

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)


Summary of Remedies

  • Medications: Mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, or naproxen.

  • Herbs & Supplements: Raspberry leaf tea, ginger, magnesium.

  • Lifestyle: Heat therapy, gentle exercise, anti-inflammatory diet.

By combining these strategies, you can significantly reduce painful periods and improve your overall menstrual health.


Dr Purity

 
 
 

Comments

Welcome to Purity Health Women’s Menopause and Wellbeing Centre™

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At Purity Health, we believe in living life to the fullest. Dr Purity Menopause Clinic, in association with Samy Medical Group, is dedicated to providing safe, evidence based information and care in perimenopause, menopause, histamine related conditions, and metabolic health.

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We recognise that there are many myths and misunderstandings surrounding menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy, HRT. One commonly repeated belief is that oestrogen causes breast cancer. This is an oversimplification and does not reflect the full body of evidence.

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Here is the truth.

At Dr Purity Carr Menopause Clinic, we are committed to providing accurate information and personalised care.

Follow us on #drpuritycarr

Extensive evidence shows that for women within 10 years of menopause or under the age of 60, the benefits of HRT generally outweigh the risks.

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For women who start HRT during perimenopause or within 10 years of menopause, there is often no need to stop purely based on age. Ongoing use should be individualised and guided by clinical review.

Even for women who are further beyond menopause or over 60, starting HRT may still be considered under the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner, with careful assessment of risks and benefits.

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A Broader Approach to Women’s Health

Dr Purity is a General Practitioner with a special interest in menopause care, taking a holistic, systems based approach to women’s health.

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In addition to menopause, her work now includes:

Hormone health, including perimenopause and menopause
Histamine related conditions, including suspected mast cell activation patterns
Metabolic health, including weight management, insulin resistance, and inflammation
The interaction between hormones, the immune system, and the nervous system

Many women experience symptoms that do not sit neatly within one system. Hormones do not operate in isolation. There is often an overlap between hormonal changes, histamine activity, and metabolic dysfunction. This integrated approach allows for a deeper understanding of symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, weight gain, brain fog, and chronic inflammation.

 

Dr Purity’s Focus on Care

Dr Purity focuses specifically on menopause, histamine balance, and metabolic health. She works to identify underlying drivers of symptoms and supports women through evidence based, personalised care.

Please note that Dr Purity does not replace your general practitioner. The experienced doctors at Samy Medical, part of the same medical system as Purity Health, are available to manage your broader healthcare needs.

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