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Period pain is real. These are days of cramps and bloating, nausea, and weakness that hamper women from their daily activities. Fortunately, there are several menstrual cramp relief pills which provide some much-needed relief. Here, we’ll discuss five of the best OTC options to take for menstrual cramps, covering how they work and their efficacy, together with possible side effects.
Why does it occur, and at what age does it happen?
So, why do we get period cramps? It’s because of those nagging chemicals at work in the body called prostaglandins. These uterus contractions may manifest as cramping or discomfort and usually start one to two days before actual flow. Most women have very painful cramps during adolescence and throughout their 20s. But don’t worry, the severity usually lessens as we get older, especially after having children, thanks to hormonal changes.
Why Are Over-the-Counter Medications Effective?
Period cramps, or dysmenorrhea, can be quite a challenge. Thankfully, OTC medications, especially NSAIDs, work on the principle of reducing the production of prostaglandins responsible for pain and inflammation. Other medications block pain signals in the brain, while others are specifically designed to take care of whole sets of symptoms related to periods ranging from bloating to lethargy.
Here are 5 such OTC pain relief pills:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Ibuprofen will likely be one of the most common NSAIDs. It reduces prostaglandin levels, and that’s why it’s so good for helping with menstrual cramps. It really does help, especially if you take it as soon as possible after the start of those cramps. You may have a little stomach upset, heartburn, or dizziness. You can take it with food if you want.
The usual doses are 2 tablets, 400 mg every 6 hours. Do not take more than 1,200 mg in a full day.
- Naproxen (Aleve)
Naproxen, another NSAID, is not so very different from ibuprofen, but hey, it just lingers around a little longer. This quality is perfect if taking a pill every couple of hours isn’t what you’re into. So, it’s actually significantly good for relief from stronger cramps, which especially need longer-lasting relief. Similar to ibuprofen, its side effects are an upset stomach, gastrointestinal problems, etc., so take it with food.
The typical dose is 1 tablet, 220 mg orally every 8-12 hours as needed, not to exceed more than 660 mg in one day.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, however, is a little different. What it doesn’t do is decrease inflammation like NSAIDs; instead, it blocks the pain receptors in the brain. It isn’t as potent on cramps as NSAIDs, but still proves to be of good value, especially if you can’t take NSAIDs. Generally, it’s safe, but too much will lead to liver damage. Just remember to stay within the recommended dosage!
You may take 2 tablets, 650 mg each, every 4 to 6 hours as necessary. Caution should be taken not to exceed 4,000 mg a day.
- Midol
Midol combines acetaminophen, caffeine, and pyrilamine as its active ingredients. It is formulated not only to fight pain but also to fight bloat and fatigue. It’s pretty effective, especially when you have multiple symptoms going on. Caffeine can make one jittery, and pyrilamine can make one drowsy.
2 caplets every 6 hours as needed can be taken. Don’t take more than 6 caplets in a day.
- Keffy PMS Care Supplement
Keffy PMS Care Supplement, contains all-natural herbal ingredients and essential nutrients in its composition which helps in managing period pain, mood swings, and all other symptoms of PMS. It packs active ingredients such as Shatavari and Chamomile that serve to soothe inflammation, and it is carefully designed to offer a powerfully comprehensive experience. Not only does it show a high potency to promote hormonal balance, but it can also reduce cramps and improve general well-being.
Generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Always follow the instructions on the product for the best results.
What Helps Period Pain without Painkillers?
If you don’t like popping pills, there are other ways to deal with the pain of your period. These can actually be quite effective, and sometimes they can even be used to augment over-the-counter medications for extra relief.
- Heat Therapy: Take a heating pad or hot water bottle and apply it to your lower abdomen, and those cramped muscles will start relaxing.
- Exercise: Believe it or not, some mild exercises like yoga can help in reducing the severity of the cramps over time.
- Dietary Changes: Maintain a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to reduce symptoms. Even reducing salt intake may benefit bloating.
- Herbal Supplements: Herbal supplements, in this case, ginger, magnesium, and cramp bark, are equally worth the try when one seeks natural relief measures.
- Fluid Intake: Keeping the body well-hydrated can help reduce bloating and, in turn, diminish the overall intensity of cramps.
In a nutshell.
Dealing with period cramps is never fun, but knowing the options can make all the difference. From ibuprofen to trying out Keffy’s PMS support capsules, it all comes down to what works best for you in terms of menstrual cramp relief pills. Ibuprofen and Naproxen do miracles when what is required is strong and fast relief, while acetaminophen offers one a much gentler option if she really needs it.
People with more comprehensive symptoms would prefer Keffy PMS Care Supplement as it helps with multiple symptoms in a rounded-out manner. It’s not only for pain relief; it promotes overall health. If you are looking for a supplement that covers all spectrums of simple pain relief, Keffy surely has to be considered.
