For women today, juggling a job, family and an active social life can leave little time to focus on health. Getting to know your body better helps you stay on top of the health issues you'll face as you go through life. Your Co-operative Pharmacy is also on hand to help. Here we focus on period pain and pre-menstrual syndrome.

Periods, their symptoms and how to cope

Periods are part of life for all women – but don't necessarily affect all women the same way. Some women will have light periods with few menstrual cramps, some the opposite. No matter what your experience, it certainly shouldn't stop you getting on with life. Here's some useful information and advice to help.

Ways period pain can affect you

• Cramps caused by a hormone called prostaglandin released during your menstrual period. Felt in the abdomen, pelvic area, lower back and legs.
• The higher the level of prostaglandins, the worse your period pain is.
• Some women may suffer from breast pain, nausea, tiredness and headaches.
• Stress and poor diet can also lead to more painful menstruation.

Ways to cope with period pain

• Cuddle up with a hot water bottle or soak in a warm bath to soothe cramps.
• Try exercise such as gentle swimming, walking or stretching to keep yourself active and take your mind off things.
• Common painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol can help. Ibuprofen isn't suitable for everyone e.g. those with asthma so please speak to your Co-operative Pharmacist.
• Specialised anti-inflammatory painkillers are also available to help reduce the symptoms.
• The combined contraceptive pill can also help to ease period pains by thinning the lining of the womb and also help to reduce the amount of prostaglandin chemicals your body releases.

Remember, you can get free advice on this or any other health matter and pick up any relevant medicines or treatments at your local Co-operative Pharmacy or The Co-operative Pharmacy online.

PMS, its symptoms and how to cope

Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a condition that can affect many women. It's linked to a change in the levels of progesterone – a hormone that's released when you ovulate. The most common experience with PMS is feeling unwell and/or emotional before your period (what's often described as one 'bad day'). But for some, PMS is more severe and can be debilitating. Here's what to look out for and ways to cope.

Ways PMS can affect you

• Tiredness and lack of concentration
• Crying and mood swings
• Food or sweet cravings
• Weight gain, abdominal swelling or feeling bloated.

Ways to cope with PMS

• Exercise can lift your mood and help to relieve the symptoms
• Eating less salt will help to minimise any bloating
• Eating a healthy diet will also help and try to avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Take Vitamin B6 to help with mood swings and irritability
• Evening Primrose Oil can be helpful in easing any breast discomfort during a cycle but may not suit all women.
  
  

IMPORTANT: These symptoms can also be related to other health issues so if your PMS is severe, it's important to make a note of dates to see if they are definitely linked to your periods. Record the accurate timing of symptoms and menstruation on a menstrual chart. If the same symptoms occur or continue in the time following menstruation then PMS is not the correct diagnosis. In which case consult your GP.