Period pains

[Chascona]

I'm not a mum but was wondering if any of you would be able to give me some advice.

I have very heavy periods (they last at least a week) and normally get cramps the first couple of days. Every few months, the cramps are much more severe than normal (to the point of vomiting from the pain, not being able to leave the house etc.)...and today is one of those days.

The usual remedies (hot water bottle, camomile tea, naps) haven't worked and I've been constantly sick all afternoon (just after taking paracetamol).

I can't take mefenamic acid, aspirin or ibuprofen as I'm allergic to them (last year I had to go to A and E with a severe allergic reaction after taking mefenamic acid).

Is there anything I can do right now to ease the cramps a little? And, more long-term, what options do I have to try and reduce period pain? I was thinking of going on the Pill, but am overweight, so not sure that my GP would agree to prescribe me it.

Thanks!

Paracetamol unlikely to help much because of the mechanism of action but better than nothing if you can't take ibuprofen etc. have you tried any anti spasmodic - can't remember what they are called it you can buy them OTC - they helped dd a little. In the end the only answer for me (and now dd) was to go on the pill. Worked like some kind of miracle

Your GP should refer you to a gynaecologist for further evaluation. I would insist on having a referral now as this type of problem does impact on your day to day life. In the meantime I would keep a pain and symptom diary to show the gynae.

Something is causing all this and it is certainly in your interests to find out what it is. I could give you two possible causes; endometriosis and fibroids. Fibroids can cause heavy bleeding to arise, endo can cause both heavy bleeding and pain. Given the usual remedies you've tried as well along with the mefenamic acid, endo cannot be ruled out here. Infact its the second most common gynae problem seen in women after fibroids.

The CAUSE needs to be ascertained, the surest way forward is to get a referral to a gynae.

Pills etc only mask the problem and do not address the underlying cause of same.