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Women's HealthReproductive HealthWill a drug for painful periods be safe?
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Will a drug for painful periods be safe?

by Dr Howard Lee

question
I suffer from very painful periods – I turn white, get stomach cramps and feel I am going to vomit. A couple of times I have even fainted. My GP gave me some pills (mefenamic acid) to take three times a day for three days before my period.

I am a bit concerned for two reasons: Firstly, I am not very comfortable with the idea of taking so many drugs, especially every month. Secondly, One of the side effects mentioned on the box is irregular periods, which worries me as I have always had regular periods and I don’t want to upset this. I am aware that contraceptive pills can help with period pain but I would prefer not to take them.

answer

Period pain can really make life miserable. I am happy to reassure you that Ponstan (mefenamic acid) will cause you no problems so long as you have none of the irritating side effects, such as gut or skin irritations. After a while your cycle will settle down. I appreciate your desire to not take the contraceptive pill but do take very secure precautions to prevent any unwanted pregnancy.
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