Having a menstrual period can, quite literally, be a pain. When menstruation occurs, prostaglandins are released that causes the muscles of the uterus to contract to expel the blood and tissue through the vagina. The Mayo Clinic explains that women with higher levels of these prostaglandins will experince more painful menstrual cramps, but menstrual cramps can also be caused by endometriosis, fibroids or other medical conditions. Although it is always best to be checked by a doctor to discover the cause of menstrual cramping, many women can experience relief from their menstrual cramps by turning to certain medications.
Over-The-Counter NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like the medications ibuprofen and naproxen, are available over-the-counter and by prescription. These medications are effective in reducing the pain of menstrual cramps. While many women turn to acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol and many other over-the-counter pain relievers, Medline Plus explains research indicates that NSAIDs are much more effective at relieving menstrual cramps than acetaminophen. However, although NSAIDs work well, they are not without side effects. Indigestion, drowsiness, dizziness and headaches are a few common side effects that some women may experience while taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, warns Medline Plus.
Prescription NSAIDs
A woman may want to consider talking to her doctor about prescription NSAIDs. Options may include prescription strength ibuprofen and naproxen, which are similar to their over-the-counter counterparts but available in higher doses. Mefanamic Acid, commonly sold under the brand name Ponstel, is another prescription NSAID that may be useful. Common side effects of this mefanamic acid include upset stomach, mild heartburn, diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation, gas, bloating, headache, dizziness, nervousness, skin itching, rash, increased sweating, runny nose, blurred vision, dry mouth or ringing in the ears, according to Drugs.com.
Hormonal Birth Control Medications
In addition to pain relieving medications, using hormonal birth control on a regular basis can help reduce the severity of menstrual cramps, according to the Mayo Clinic. Oral contraceptives pill are a popular choice, but other options include the birth control vaginal ring, the birth control patch and the birth control shot. However, the popular parenting website points out that hormonal birth control medications may take three or four months before noticeably decreasing the severity of menstrual cramps. In addition, hormonal birth control medications can have serious side effects, including the risk of heart attacks, strokes and blood clots. There are also some that may not want to use birth control for moral or emotional reasons. Those with concerns about taking birth control medications to relieve menstrual cramps should talk to a doctor.
