Period pain - what to do?

Synonyms

Treatment of period pain

Further information can also be found at:

  • Menstrual pain
  • Pain in the abdomen
  • Menstrual period

introduction

Basically, period pain can be treated on three levels:

  • medical therapy
  • alternative healing methods (e.g. naturopathy)
  • physical measures (e.g. heat)

In addition to pain in the abdomen, nausea can also occur in the context of premenstrual syndrome. Read more about this under: Premenstrual Syndrome and Nausea

Medical therapy

Therapy for menstrual pain

Different painkillers help with acute period pain. Butylscopolamine (Buscopan®) can be administered as an antispasmodic and therefore also pain reliever.

All non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have an anti-inflammatory effect, i.e. inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and thus relieve pain. Many of these preparations are available from pharmacies without a prescription, but due to their possible side effects they should be taken cautiously and not for more than three consecutive days. Especially recommended because ibuprofen is well tolerated and effective for menstrual pain, but paracetamol or naproxen can also be used. From acetylsalicylic acid, e.g. B. contained in aspirin, should be avoided, as it also inhibits blood clotting. This can lead to complications, especially in women with heavy menstrual bleeding.
Hormonal contraceptives, e.g. For example, special birth control pills, the hormone coil or hormone implants can have a positive effect on menstrual symptoms, and in many women the pain decreases or disappears completely.
However, this form of therapy is out of the question for women who want to have children, smokers and women with blood clotting disorders. In the case of an underlying endometriosis, certain birth control pills can also be used for drug therapy.

The well-known premenstrual syndrome can also be treated with contraceptives or pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Read more about this under: This is how premenstrual syndrome is treated

Alternative methods

Herbal medicine (phytotherapy) knows some traditional plant substances that have been tried and tested for many centuries. The active ingredients have different points of attack and can therefore be individually tailored to each type of period pain.
The essential oils of chamomile have an antispasmodic and relaxing effect, in the form of teas or warm baths, chamomile provides good relief.
The two plants yarrow and goose weed with the essential oils and flavonoids (yarrow) or tannins (goose weed) they contain are particularly effective in treating spasmodic complaints of the uterus and intestines. They can also be consumed as tea; a mixture of the active ingredients is also possible.
For water retention, we recommend a medicinal tea made from nettle or birch leaves, which has a gently draining effect. Lavender and lemon balm, in the form of teas or essential scented oils, have a positive and relaxing effect on the mood.
Individual advice on herbal medicinal products for menstrual pain can take place in pharmacies, and special tea blends can also be ordered there.
Classical homeopathic remedies can also be used. However, self-treatment is not recommended. It is advisable to seek individual advice from a naturopath or doctor specializing in homeopathy, as the right remedy has to be found for every woman.

Please also read: Schüssler salt No. 25

Further measures

Heat therapy for menstrual pain

Warmth in every form has an antispasmodic effect and alleviates the discomfort.

  • Hot water bottles
  • Spelled pillows
  • warm baths
    or
  • Infrared lamps (Heat lamps)

can provide warmth and also help to physical relaxation.

Massage or acupressure, the pressure massage of certain pressure points for pain relief, also help some women. Light movement such as walking or swimming in warm water e.g. B. in thermal baths also have a positive effect, since the blood circulation in the abdomen is promoted and the prostaglandins can be better flushed out.
It is advisable to keep a regular calendar. All observations during the cycle should be entered there: the type and duration of pain and discomfort, possible water retention and the duration and severity of the bleeding.
A morning temperature measurement is also recommended, since the body temperature rises at the time of ovulation, the monthly cycle and your own body can be better understood.

Read more on the topic: Premenstrual syndrome despite taking the pill