Painful Periods
Mild cramping during your period is normal .Occasionally you may require an over-the-counter pain killers to cope with this pain.
Severe monthly cramps which are not relieved by medication and which interfere with work or social activities are not normal and require evaluation. You may also suffer from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms due to this pain.
WHAT IS NOT NORMAL CRAMPS
Cramps due to period is not normal if:
- Cramps are severe
- Cramps are associated with heavy menstrual bleeding
- Cramps are not relieved by over-the-counter medicines
- Cramps interfere with work or social activities
Severe cramps may be a symptom of an underlying condition (for example, endometriosis) which can cause infertility and serious harm if not treated. Severe cramps ought to be evaluated by a gynaecologist
About two-thirds of adolescents report menstrual cramps which are severe enough to interfere with daily activities
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF PERIOD PAIN
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Uterine polyps
- Scarring due to sexually-transmitted infections
If you use over-the-counter medications and still have cramps which interfere with your lifestyle, we invite you to make an appointment for consultation.
TREATMENTS
These conditions can be treated with:
- Oral tablets
- Oral tablets
- Painkillers to strong hormones
- Ablation of lining of womb to removal of ovary or womb
- Ultrasound scan to laparoscopy, or
- You may benefit from Hypnotherapy, Acupuncture or physiotherapy
Make an appointment and receive a individualised care plan which evaluates your symptoms and takes into account your personal choices.
