Period problems

[Vates]

I have recently had some of the most painful periods I have ever had in my life. They often wake me up in the night and I can't get back to sleep. Ibuprofen and paracetamol don't help take/numb the pain.

I was on the pill from 19 until 30 years of age (mainly for the benefits for my acne/skin problems). I then got too fat so it was too much of a risk to prescribe it. I came off it and didn't have any type of period for 5 years (apart from the odd day of bleeding). I just figured it was because I was too obese to have a period when I looked it up.

But then I lost a little weight and they came back a few months ago but they are far more painful. I just want to lose enough weight to qualify for the pill again to be honest (never had a baby and never will/want to have one).

Does anybody have any home remedies or recommendations for soothing cramps? I can't take any strong pain killers due to a certain medication I am on.

Fennel or peppermint tea has usually worked for me. Peppermint tea is available in stores, for fennel tea you need to seep a teaspoon of seeds in hot water for 5 minutes. A hot water bottle on your tummy also helps a lot.

Thank you. Definitely going to try the peppermint tea. I normally do the microwave heat bag and use it. I guess I got too happy with not having any for a while.

I have very painful periods due to endometriosis and use the heat patches around my hips/pelvis - really helps to take the edge off!