The Menstrual Cycle

•  
  Overview
   
• Period
  pains
   
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS or PMT)
•  
  Treatment
   
• Contraception methods
   

Supplements

• To help maintain hormonal balance, try taking vitamin B6 supplement or a supplement that contains gamma linolenic acid (GLA) such as starflower oil or evening primrose oil
• Taking thiamine (vitamin B1) or magnesium supplements may also help to ease period pains.

Painkillers

• Over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol can often help to ease period pains
• To provide relief from period pain and cramps you could alternatively choose an over the counter painkiller that contains naproxen, which specifically targets period pain
• Previously only available on prescription, naproxen works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which in turn reduce the contractions of the uterus.

Prescribed medicines

• Anti-inflammatory drugs available on precription, such as mefenamic acid, can relieve pain by decreasing the levels of prostaglandins
• They work best when taken regularly from the onset of pain, or the day before a period is due. However, these drugs are not suitable for everyone, for example if you have asthma or a sensitive stomach

Transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS)

A TENS machine (available from many pharmacies) helps to block pain, by releasing small electrical impulses that stimulate the nerves in your pelvic area and help to block the pain signals being sent to the brain. The impulses are released through sticky pads