I suffer from really painful periods

Delaying the period

How can I cope with my heavy periods?

Irregular periods

Painful cramps in between periods

Question

I am 18 years old, and suffer from really bad period pains.

On the first day of my period, I am unable to go to college, work or go out with friends and it really gets me down.

I have really bad abdominal pain, headache, vomiting. I feel as though I can't move because my stomach hurts so much. Can you help?

I can't speak to my mum and don't want to see my doctor.

Answer

Your problem is a very common one but it is also a difficult one to help.

The first few years of the periods are the years when there is usually most difficulty. That's the light at the end of the tunnel – in the future it may all settle down of its own accord.

Without going for medical treatment, your options are limited. Here is something safe to try by yourself – take 10mg zinc a day plus 50mg of vitamin B6. Do this for three months and note if anything improves.

These two supplements are involved in the body's manufacture of hormones that control menstruation and sometimes taking this amount will improve your periods.

If this doesn't work, the next thing I would suggest is homeopathy – your GP could refer you for this on the NHS. It, too, is a safe approach.

Yours sincerely

Dr Bob Leckridge, GP

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