Period pain — medically known as dysmenorrhoea — affects up to 80% of women at some point, with around 20% describing it as severe enough to affect daily activities. It is completely legitimate pain, and there are treatments that genuinely work.

What Causes Period Pain?

Prostaglandins — hormone-like substances released from the uterine lining as it breaks down — cause the uterus to contract. These contractions reduce blood supply, causing ischaemic pain (similar to the mechanism of angina). Women with dysmenorrhoea typically have higher levels of prostaglandins. Secondary dysmenorrhoea has an underlying cause: endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease.

The Best OTC Treatments

Ibuprofen is the evidence-based first-line treatment for primary dysmenorrhoea. By inhibiting COX enzymes, it reduces prostaglandin production, tackling the root mechanism of the pain. The key is to take it at the first sign of cramping — or even just before the period is due if it’s predictable — and to take it regularly (every 6–8 hours with food) for the first 1–2 days rather than waiting until pain is severe. 400mg three times daily is an effective regime. Naproxen (available OTC as Feminax Ultra) — a longer-acting NSAID, can be more convenient. Feminax Express (ibuprofen lysine) — faster-absorbing form of ibuprofen. Buscopan (hyoscine butylbromide) — antispasmodic, can help with cramping and spasm element. Paracetamol provides some relief but is less effective for prostaglandin-driven pain than NSAIDs.

Heat Therapy

Heat patches (like ThermaCare) or a hot water bottle applied to the lower abdomen are as effective as ibuprofen in some studies. Heat relaxes uterine muscle and reduces prostaglandin activity. A combination of heat and ibuprofen may be more effective than either alone.

Nutritional Approaches

  • Omega-3 fatty acids — reduce prostaglandin synthesis; evidence suggests supplementing can reduce period pain severity
  • Magnesium — reduces uterine muscle cramping; 300–360mg daily
  • Vitamin D — deficiency associated with worse dysmenorrhoea

Shop Period Pain Treatments at Chemist 2 Customer. Related: Ibuprofen vs Paracetamol, Period Health.