Know the Side Effects of Medicines used for managing Period Pains

Many individuals experience pain during their periods. However, is using painkillers during menstruation safe? Perhaps not! As ainkillers come with a plethora of side effects, especially in the long run. It might not be the best idea if you reach for paracetamol/ibuprofen the moment your period cramps start to bother you. We understand that period cramps or pain can occasionally become unbearable, and you may want to try anything to put an end to them. But be careful—painkillers for menstrual cramps should only be used in extreme circumstances to alleviate tolerable pain. In this article, we will talk about dysmenorrhoea (period cramps) and why we should avoid consuming pain medications for period pain.

 

What Is Dysmenorrhoea?

Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for period pain. This might range from mild, achy cramps to severe agony that feels uncontrollable and is difficult to relieve. Usually originating in the lower abdomen, the pain can also spread to the back and inner thighs.

 

Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea:

Abdominal cramps or aches are the primary symptom of primary dysmenorrhea. Also, you may have it in your upper thighs or lower back. Other symptoms that you could experience when you get your period include:

• Feeling of tiredness
• Bloating (your abdomen sticks out more than normal)
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches
• Lower back discomfort
• Mood changes

 

 

 

Side Effect of Medicines for Period Pains

The following side effects are associated with taking pain medications during periods, and have adverse side effects in the long run, such as:

 

1. Constipation
Periods often cause diarrhea, cramping, and a host of other problems. Taking excessive painkillers during your period can also contribute to constipation. This is due to the opioids found in painkillers, which slow down the passage of faeces through the intestines. This causes your intestine to expel more water, which makes your stool firmer, drier, and more challenging to pass.

2. Acid reflux

Acid reflux is a common side effect of taking painkillers. This is due to the fact that painkillers induce the stomach to produce more acid. Additionally, it can prevent prostaglandins from forming, which are necessary to shield your digestive system.

3. Nausea and vomiting

Experiencing nausea and vomiting throughout your menstrual cycle is a frequent occurrence. But taking too many medications when you're menstruating could make you even more nauseated, causing vomiting.

4. Stomach ulcers

Taking too many medications during your menstrual cycle may cause your stomach or small intestine to get ulcerated. This can even bleed and is frequently extremely uncomfortable. You might end up in the hospital as a result of this risky circumstance.

5. Decreased Appetite

Potent medications like painkillers can cause dehydration and damage to the lining of your stomach, which makes it harder to want to eat food.

 

How to Lessen Pain during Menstruation Instead of Medications

 

The following measures can be taken to lessen menstrual cramps:

 

• Applying heat: The muscles that cause cramps can be relaxed by heat. So menstrual cramps can be significantly lessened by using a hot water bag or an electric heating pad on the back or abdomen or taking a warm bath.
  
  
• Exercise: You read that correctly. Exercise can be really beneficial, even when we would prefer to spend our periods curled up in bed. Exercise serves as a non-specific pain reliever by enhancing pelvic circulation and stimulating the body's natural production of endorphins, which help reduce pain
• Hydration: It's important to drink enough water throughout the day to prevent bloating and soreness, which can further exacerbate cramps. Drinking hot water or other warm beverages can help relax the muscles and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.Consuming water-based fruits and vegetables such as lettuce, celery, cucumbers, watermelon, and berries including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries can also help one stay more hydrated than drinking water alone.
  
  
• Diet Modifications: Avoid certain foods and beverages during menstruation, particularly alcohol, carbonated drinks, caffeine, and excess salty and fatty foods. This is because it produces dehydration and bloating, two symptoms that could result in excruciating cramps.

Also, herbal teas ease muscle spasms in the uterus and help in managing pain.

• Reduction of stress: Stress affects our body in a variety of ways, one of which is a lower threshold for pain. To reduce stress, engage in yoga, meditation, massage therapy, and deep breathing exercises.

Medications, including painkillers, can have negative impacts on our health. During periods, it's hard to predict how our bodies will react to certain medications. Therefore, it's advisable to rely on natural therapies and home cures like hot compress, exercise, herbal teas, and massage rather than taking medications during menstruation. However, if you are in immense pain, you can take a painkiller as advised by your healthcare provider to avoid long-term side effects.

 

If you have any questions regarding menstrual pain or associated symptoms, you can check with our gynecologist at Ask a doctor, 24x7.