Medical (dysmenorrhea)

Baths, rest and relaxation, heat and massage.

Massage (massaging pressure points, using a circular motion, in the following spots. A. uterine or ovarian pain: just below the inside anklebone. B. Back pain: bottom of the foot along the inside arch. If pain is felt, continue to massage until it goes away.

Exercise.

Diet: Reduce salt, sugar, alcohol and caffeine intake.

The combined oral contraceptive pill may help reduce bleeding and pain, particularly if the packs are taken ‘back to back’ (42 days tablets then a 7 day break).

Tranexamic Acid and non steroidal inflammatory drugs e.g. Ibuprofen, can help reduce the quantity of bleeding as well as pain, and may be used by women wishing to retain their fertility.

The Mirena IUS is a device inserted into the uterus, which can also reduce bleeding and pain, as well as being an effective contraceptive.