Period pain is awful

[Housequestion45]

I'm struggling so much today. I've got loads to get done but have come to a complete stop with pain in my lower back, lower abdomen, groin and thighs. I've taken co codamol and mefanamic acid (first time I've had it) but it doesnt seem to have done much at all. I've had ultrasound scans in the past that showed possibly polycystic appearance but my periods are regular and hormone bloods were normal so dr said its not PCOS. I dont know what to do, I guess I have to go back to the GP?

Have endometriosis been considered?

No

Do some research. It's not that uncommon but often GP doesn't think about it.

Have you considered getting the contraceptive injection? It usually stops periods and you can self inject every 3 months

Buscopan can help with stomach cramps if you get those as a result of periods

I found a hot bath and of hot water bottle helped

Ibuprofen. Max dose. I’ve suffered 38 years and counting. You have my sympathy.

Mefenamic acid takes quite a while to kick in and builds in effectiveness. Try to take it asap and regularly space doses. It does work well but it's not as quick as OTC meds. You can take paracetamol as well. I also used buscopan to relieve the cramps and heat pads when it was at its worst. I had a hysterectomy last month and no blood and pain has been bliss.

But please go back and ask for further investigation. It shouldn't be this painful.

Try a mirena coil. Marmite experiences but I had periods so bad I'd be lying on the floor.

One memorable xmas day I just stood, lying across the worktop in the kitchen alternating champagne and paracetamol (yes I know!)

I had the Mirena fitted for HRT but the pain is so much reduced now. Am having a period at the moment and whilst I still have cramps and pain into the top of my thighs, there's barely any blood and paracetamol does the job nicely.

Some people's periods stop totally on mirena.

I've got stage 4 endo.

Now I take the mini pill so I don't have periods. God knows why I put up with it for so many years when you don't have to.