Manage your pain and symptoms
Pain
There are lots of things you can try to manage your pain.
These include both pharmacological options like painkillers, and non-pharmacological options, which don’t involve medications, such as those listed to the right.
Mood
You might find your mood changes before or during your period. You might feel down or depressed. This is sometimes called premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or if severe, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Other
You may experience other problematic symptoms with your period including:
- bloating
- back pain
- headaches/migraines
- constipation or diarrhoea
- breast tenderness
- aching down your legs
- fatigue.
There are lots of things you can do to manage your period pain and symptoms. Try some of these ideas before you go to a doctor.
- heat (heat packs or hot baths)
- yoga and stretching
- exercise and movement
- deep breathing/meditation/relaxation
- massage
- acupuncture
- distractions such as music, reading or movies
- stress reduction/monitoring
- creative outlet such as writing, art or photography
- healthy eating
- adequate rest and good quality sleep
- taking Vitamin B6 and/or magnesium
- taking Vitex Agnus Castus, also known as Chasteberry or Chaste tree.This is available from health food shops and pharmacies.
Educate yourself
There are many reasons why you might be having painful periods. Visit our website for more information about your period and period pain.
Test Yourself
Take the Period Impact and Pain Assessment (PIPPA) at school or online. Please note that if you score a four or five on the assessment, you should make an appointment to see your doctor as well as trying the techniques below.
It worked
Your pain and symptoms are being managed. Keep doing what you have been.
It didn’t work
Your symptoms and pain haven’t really improved. You should see your GP to get more help. You can download a letter for your doctor.