Menstrual health: Managing pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Menstruation is a natural process, but the intense pain or premenstrual symptoms that affect your quality of life are not something you simply have to endure. Many solutions exist to help you better manage your cycle.
Understanding the cause of these discomforts and knowing the treatment options is the first step to regaining control of your well-being.
Understanding common discomforts
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Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps): This is the pain that occurs before or during a period, caused by contractions of the uterus. It is distinguished into two types:
- Primary: The most common type, with no underlying medical cause.
- Secondary: Linked to another condition, such as endometriosis.
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): This is a set of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to a period (mood swings, irritability, bloating, breast tenderness, etc.).
Solutions for managing symptoms: The pharmacist's approach
Your pharmacist is a first-line resource to help you find the right strategy.
Pain management (cramps)
- Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen are often the first-choice treatment. Tip: for maximum effectiveness, start taking them as soon as the pain begins, without waiting for it to become too intense.
- Hormonal contraception: The pill or a hormonal IUD are very effective options for reducing severe pain by regulating cycles.
PMS management
- Lifestyle advice: Regular exercise, a good diet, and stress management can greatly help.
- Supplements: Some supplements like calcium and magnesium have shown benefits for some people.
- Prescription treatments: For more severe forms of PMS, hormonal contraception or, in some cases, antidepressants (SSRIs) may be prescribed.
When to see a doctor
It is important to see a doctor if:
- The pain is so severe that it prevents you from functioning.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers do not provide relief.
- You have very heavy or irregular bleeding.
- You suspect an underlying condition like endometriosis. Endometriosis is a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. It can cause extreme menstrual pain, pain during sexual intercourse, and sometimes infertility.
Trusted resources to learn more
- Sex & U by the SOGC : The Canadian medical reference on menstrual pain and PMS.
- EndoAct Canada : A support and information network for people with endometriosis.
- Gia On Top : A Canadian resource specifically dedicated to Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), the most severe form of PMS.
