Does the pill reduce pain at periods ?

With Sophie-Hélène Zaimi, Radiologist

In this article, we talk about the contraceptive pill!

Why does your stomach hurt during periods ?

Dysmenorrhea, or periods pain, is the pain that accompanies menstruation. These pelvic pains, located in the lower abdomen or lower back, are linked to contractions of the luterus. They vary in intensity from person to person, with women suffering from dysmenorrhoea having a uterus that contracts more intensely. This could be due to an overproduction of prostaglandins, which act on other muscles, explaining certain dysmenorrhea symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches and malaise. Severe dysmenorrhea affects 1 in 4 people.

How does the pill reduce pain periods ?

Women on the estrogen-progestin pill experience less pain at periods . 

In fact, the estrogen-progestin pill prevents lovulation, which reduces the secretion of prostaglandins that affect periods and, in particular, the flow of periods, thus relieving pain. The pill has an analgesic effect.

Another important point: when taking the pill, you can link two packs together if you don't want to have your periods (for example, for an important event). There's no danger to your health. However, if you take several packets in succession, you may find that you experience a few spottings while you're still on the pill. In this case, it is advisable to take a 7-day break from periods, so that the cycle "gets back on track".

Of course, this advice applies only to the estrogen-progestin pill, not to the progestin-only pill, which is taken continuously.

Other benefits of the pill?

In addition to reducing menstrual pain, for women with irregular periods cycles, the pill helps to regulate them. Indeed, when we take the contraceptive pill, our cycles are in fact artificial and therefore more regular. The pill can also reduce acne and premenstrual syndromes. It's a simple method of contraception and, if taken correctly, is 99% effective. However, the pill does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases and infections.

In any case, it's up to each individual.s to choose the contraceptive method that suits her best! Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

How else can you relieve pain at periods ?

There are several techniques available to relieve dysmenorrhea. 

The best-known is the hot-water bottle. The action of heat dilates blood vessels, increases oxygen supply and ultimately relaxes uterine muscles, reducing menstrual pain.

Medication can also be used, for example paracetamol or spasmolytics to counter contractions. Anti-inflammatories can also soothe pain.

Certain plants can help relieve pain at periods, such as raspberry leaves, sage, yarrow and cbd oil. 

To keep you safe and comfortable during your cycles, our menstrual briefs are ideal: made from soft, certified organic cotton.