Heavy and painful periods are a notorious problem for females of varying ages. In some cases, simple changes to your feminine hygiene products and the way you treat pain can make your periods a little easier to handle.
Reduce Tampon Use
Although tampons can give you extra protection when combined with pads, they often contribute to worsening cramps. When possible, try to rely on pads as your primary form of feminine hygiene, especially on the first few days of your period when you are more likely to expel large clots. At night or when you are home, there are plenty of options to reduce leaks. One option is to use adult protective undergarments in lieu of or over your panties. If you experience any accidents, the undergarments can prevent soiling of your clothing or furniture. Newer period panties are designed of highly absorbent material and are to be used in place of all feminine hygiene products. They are more discreet than protective undergarments, which can make you feel more comfortable wearing them during the day.
Take The Right Pain Reliever
There are numerous pain relievers available over-the-counte,r and the right one will depend on your exact needs. Acetaminophen is a popular choice because has a low risk of stomach upset; however, it is often not very effective at reducing menstrual cramps. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually better for minimizing or alleviating menstrual cramps because they also reduce inflammation. Ibuprofen is generally less likely to cause stomach upset than naproxen sodium, although naproxen is more potent and can last up to 12 hours with a single dose. Aspirin is generally not an ideal pain reliever for menstrual cramps. If you are under 19 years old, you should not take aspirin products due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. Additionally, aspirin works as an anticoagulant, which can make your bleeding worse.
Include Alternative Pain Treatments
There are other options to reduce menstrual pain that do not involve medication. Heat therapy is a popular choice because it is soothing and can reduce strong contractions from the uterus. Additionally, heat can help reduce low back and leg pain that may also occur during your periods. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be applied to your abdomen or other places where you feel pain. The goal of TENS is to send non-painful stimuli, such as buzzing or pulsing, along the nerves. In theory, these non-painful stimuli should arrive before pain signals, stopping or minimizing pain. Most TENS units are discreet and can be used at school or in the office to help you through the day.
Although period problems are common, it does not make it any easier. Fortunately there are an increasing number of feminine hygiene and pain-relieving products available to make your periods less intrusive. For more advice, contact a doctor who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology.
Share11 January 2017
As soon as I found out that I was pregnant with my first child, I knew that I needed to make a few changes to ensure that me and my baby stayed safe. For starters, I called around to find a great OBGYN, and I was able to book an appointment with an incredible clinic. They were really nice to work with, and before I knew it, I was having my first appointment. It was really fun to see the little heartbeat and to know that my baby was healthy and safe, which is why I was so happy that I found a great prenatal clinic. This blog is all about getting great prenatal care.
