What to Avoid & the Best Period Pain Relief Tablets
Period pain is extremely common. In fact, more than half of people who menstruate experience cramps for one to three days every month. For some, it feels like a dull ache. For others, it can be sharp, intense, and disruptive enough to affect work, studies, or daily life. Period pain relief tablets and good foods are very useful in this situation.
Menstrual cramps are usually felt in the lower abdomen, but the discomfort doesn’t always stop there. Many women also experience lower back pain, thigh pain, headaches, nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, gas, and fatigue. Some even describe a “bubbling” or unsettled feeling in the stomach during their period. The medical term for painful periods is dysmenorrhoea. The good news is that period pain can be managed effectively through the right combination of diet, medication, and simple self-care techniques.
Table of Contents
Why Do Period Cramps Happen?
To understand how to relieve period pain, it helps to understand why it happens. Every month, the uterus builds a lining in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the body sheds this lining during menstruation. To push the lining out, the uterus contracts.
These contractions are triggered by chemicals in the body called prostaglandins. When prostaglandin levels are high, the contractions become stronger. Stronger contractions mean reduced blood flow to the uterus and increased pain signals — which result in cramps.
Primary vs Secondary Dysmenorrhoea
There are two types of menstrual pain:
Primary Dysmenorrhoea
This is the most common type. It is caused by natural hormonal changes and high prostaglandin levels. It is not linked to any underlying disease.
Secondary Dysmenorrhoea
This type is caused by medical conditions such as:
- Fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the uterus)
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Complications from an intrauterine device (IUD)
If your pain becomes unusually severe, worsens over time, or does not improve with medication, it’s important to consult a doctor.
What to Eat for Period Pain Relief ?
Research shows that food plays a role in inflammation. Since menstrual cramps are linked to inflammatory chemicals, certain foods may help reduce pain.
Omega-3 Rich Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They help regulate how cells function and reduce pain signalling in the body.
Foods rich in omega-3 include:
- Salmon, sardines, mackerel, and herring
- Chia seeds and flaxseeds
- Walnuts
- Edamame
- Fish oil and flaxseed oil
Recent research suggests that consuming between 300–1,800 mg of omega-3 daily for two to three months may significantly reduce menstrual pain and even decrease the need for painkillers. Adding omega-3-rich foods to your diet regularly — not just during your period — may provide better long-term results.
Warm Foods and Fluids
Warmth relaxes muscles and improves blood circulation. Drinking herbal teas, warm water, or soups during your period may help ease cramps. Ginger tea, in particular, is often used for its soothing effects.
Foods to Avoid During Your Period
Some foods may increase bloating or inflammation and make cramps worse. These include:
- Fried and heavily processed foods
- Excess sugar
- Salty snacks
- Alcohol
- Too much caffeine
Reducing these during your cycle may help you feel less bloated and more comfortable.
Period Pain Relief Tablets: What Works Best?
When cramps are moderate or severe, medication can provide fast and reliable relief. The most effective medicines for menstrual pain belong to a group called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). These medicines work by blocking prostaglandins the chemicals responsible for strong uterine contractions.
1. Ibuprofen for Period Pain
Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used period pain relief tablets. It works by reducing inflammation and lowering prostaglandin levels. When taken correctly, it can significantly reduce cramping and discomfort.
How to take it:
- Usually up to 3 times daily
- Leave at least 4 hours between doses
- Follow label instructions carefully
Incorrect dosing or delayed timing can reduce effectiveness.
Nurofen for Fast Relief
Nurofen Express 400mg liquid capsules contain ibuprofen in fast-absorbing form.
- May start working within minutes
- Can provide up to 8 hours of relief
It is ideal for women who need quicker relief from sudden cramps.
2. Naproxen
Naproxen is another strong NSAID period pain relief tablets often recommended for menstrual pain.
Benefits:
- Longer-lasting relief
- Suitable for moderate to severe cramps
Many women prefer naproxen when ibuprofen is not strong enough.
3. Mefenamic Acid
Mefenamic acid is commonly prescribed specifically for Period pain relief tablets.
It is particularly helpful for:
- Severe cramps
- Pain accompanied by heavy bleeding
It requires a prescription in many countries.
4. Diclofenac
Diclofenac is a stronger anti-inflammatory Period pain relief tablets.
Usually prescribed when:
- Pain is severe
- Other NSAIDs fail to provide relief
5. Aspirin for Period Pain
High-dose aspirin can reduce inflammation and it is good Period pain relief tablets.
However:
- Not recommended for children under 16
- Must be taken under medical guidance
Low-dose aspirin is not typically effective for menstrual cramps.
6. Paracetamol for Period Pain
If you cannot take NSAIDs due to asthma, stomach ulcers, or allergies, paracetamol is another option.
It relieves pain but does not reduce inflammation like NSAIDs.
You can sometimes combine paracetamol with ibuprofen if one alone is insufficient (after medical advice).
Avoid paracetamol if you:
- Have liver problems
- Drink excessive alcohol
- Take epilepsy or tuberculosis medication
- Weigh under 50kg
Panadol Period Pain Relief Tablets
Panadol Period Pain Relief tablets is specially formulated for menstrual cramps.
Key Features:
- Contains paracetamol + caffeine
- Provides stronger pain relief than standard paracetamol
- Caffeine enhances the pain-relieving effect
- Also helps with headaches and cold symptoms
It is suitable for women who need moderate relief and cannot tolerate stronger NSAIDs.
Who Should Avoid NSAIDs?
Although NSAIDs are effective, they are not suitable for everyone.
Speak to a healthcare professional if you:
- Have asthma
- Have had stomach ulcers
- Have heart, liver, or kidney problems
- Have high blood pressure
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are over 65
- Take blood thinners
Safety is essential. Never exceed recommended doses.
Diet Chart For periods
| Sunday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Soy Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Egg Poach (1) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | 2 Orange/ Lemon |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Parboiled Rice (1/2 cup) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Paneer Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Aloo Chat with Curd n Boiled Black Chana (1 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + Spinach Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Monday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Whole Grain Toast (2) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | Grapes (1 cup) |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Chapati (3) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Fish Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Boiled Peas n Carrot Chat (1/2 cup) + Green Tea (1 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + Bottle Gourd Curry (1/2 curry) |
| Tuesday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Soy Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Egg Poach (1) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | Cantalope (1 cup) |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Parboiled Rice (1/2 cup) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Chicken Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Chana Chat (1/2 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + Beetroot n Peas Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Wednesday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Whole Grain Toast (2) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | 1 Apple + 1 Kiwi |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Chapati (3) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Fish Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Mur-mure Chat (1/2 cup) + Green Tea (1 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + MIx Veg. Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Thursday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Soy Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Egg Poach (1) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | Pomegranate (1 cup) |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Parboiled Rice (1/2 cup) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Raw Jackfruit Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Grated Coconut n Puffed Rice (1/2 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + Lotus Stem Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Friday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Whole Grain Toast (2) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | 1 Mango |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Chapati (3) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Fish Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Roasted Tomato n mushrooms (1/2 cup) + Green Tea (1 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + Baked Lady’s Finger (1/2 cup) |
| Saturday | |
| Breakfast (8:00-8:30AM) | Soy Milk (1 glass) + 6 Almonds + 4 Cashews + 4 Raisins + Egg Poach (1) |
| Mid-Meal (11:00-11:30AM) | 1 Guava |
| Lunch (2:00-2:30PM) | Parboiled Rice (1/2 cup) + Daal (1/2 cup) + Chicken Curry (1/2 cup) |
| Evening (4:00-4:30PM) | Custard with Dry Fruits (1/2 cup) |
| Dinner (8:00-8:30PM) | Chapati (2) + Pointed Gourd Curry (1/2 cup) |
Self-Care Tips for Period Pain
Medication works best when combined with lifestyle strategies.
1. Heat Therapy
Using a Period Heating pad ( Available on TwoBazar.pk ) on the lower abdomen relaxes uterine muscles and improves blood flow.
2. Gentle Exercise
Yoga, walking, swimming, and stretching can reduce cramp intensity.
3. Massage
Light abdominal or lower back massage can reduce tension.
4. Avoid Smoking
Smoking may worsen inflammation and pain.
5. Reduce Alcohol
Alcohol can increase bloating and discomfort.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if:
- Your pain is unusually severe
- Pain worsens each month
- Bleeding is excessively heavy
- Medication does not provide relief
- Your symptoms suddenly change
Persistent or worsening pain may indicate an underlying condition that requires treatment.
Final Thoughts
Period pain is common, but it should not control your life. Understanding the role of prostaglandins and inflammation helps explain why NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen are often the most effective Period pain relief tablets. At the same time, long-term strategies such as increasing omega-3 intake, reducing processed foods, using heat therapy, and maintaining gentle physical activity can make a meaningful difference. By combining proper nutrition, appropriate medication, and healthy lifestyle habits, most women can significantly reduce menstrual discomfort and maintain their daily routines with confidence.
FAQ‘s
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What is the best Period pain relief tablets?
Ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly considered the most effective because they reduce prostaglandins. For mild pain, paracetamol or Panadol Period Pain may help.
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Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together for period pain?
Yes, paracetamol and ibuprofen can sometimes be taken together for better pain control, as they work differently. However, doses should not exceed recommended limits. It is best to consult a pharmacist or doctor before combining medications.
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How quickly does ibuprofen work for cramps?
It typically starts working within 20–30 minutes.
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Are period pain relief tablets available without prescription?
Yes, common NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen are usually available over the counter in many countries. However, stronger doses or specific medications may require a prescription.
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Are there any side effects of period pain relief tablets?
Common side effects of NSAIDs include stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, and dizziness. Taking them with food can reduce stomach irritation. Long-term or excessive use may increase the risk of stomach ulcers or kidney problems.
