Menstrual Pain Treatment

Self-Care at Home

The best way to relieve painful menstrual cramps is to take an anti-inflammatory medication. Ibuprofen (Advil is a familiar brand name), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), and ketoprofen (Orudis) are available without a prescription and are effective at blocking the effects of prostaglandins.

• These medications work better if taken before the start of menstruation and can be continued as long as needed. If one type does not relieve the pain, try another, because these medications do not work the same in everyone.
  
  
• Anti-inflammatory medicine like this can be harsh on the stomach. If there is a history of kidney problems or stomach problems (such as ulcers or reflux), consult with the health care provider before starting this type of medication. Taking the pills with meals may help prevent upset stomach.

If anti-inflammatory medicine is not an option or if additional relief is needed, the following strategies may help relieve menstrual cramps:

• A heating pad to the pelvic area
  
  
• Massage to the back and lower abdomen
  
  
• Exercise, especially prior to the start of a period
  
  
• Thiamine 100 mg daily
  
  
• Low-fat vegetarian diet
  
  
• Calcium 1200 mg daily