Take the tablets regularly, for 2-3 days each period, rather than 'now and then' when pain builds up. Take a strong enough dose. If your pains are not eased, ask your doctor or pharmacist if the dose that you are taking is the maximum allowed. An increase in dose may be all that you need. Healthcare professionals have reported that it seems to help some people, although how well it works depends on the individual and the condition being treated.

You can choose to buy your own TENS machine without getting medical advice, but it's generally better to have a proper assessment first, so you can find out whether a TENS machine is appropriate for you and be taught how to use it properly. First, we need to first talk about different types of nerves. Nociceptors are nerves that send “danger” impulses about actual or potential tissue damage. Sensory nerves in your skin transmit information about things such as touch and pressure. A commonly prescribed option is mefenamic acid. However, you can buy one type ( ibuprofen) at pharmacies. Some tips when using an anti-inflammatory include the following:

How might TENS work?

TENS machines are not new. They’ve been around since the 1970s and have been used for a variety of painful conditions, from muscular injuries to pain relief in labour. The exact mechanisms of how TENS works to reduce pain is still unclear. There are likely many different pathways. The electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles. They may also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. What TENS is used for TENS is not a cure for pain and often only provides short-term relief while the TENS machine is being used. Turn on the TENS machine when the pads are attached in the correct places. You'll feel a slight tingling sensation pass through your skin.

TENS may be able to help reduce pain and muscle spasms caused by a wide range of conditions including: These are called 'combined' hormonal contraceptives because they contain two hormones - oestrogen and progesterone. They provide contraception (preventing pregnancy), but are still a good option for heavy periods even if you don't need contraception. Heavy and painful periods are much less likely if you take CHC. You can also take them in a way so that you have fewer periods in a year, giving you control over when you have a period. This will reduce the number of times you have pain. See the separate leaflet called Contraceptive Hormone Pills, Patches and Rings for more detail. The intrauterine system (IUS)To get the most benefit from TENS, it's important that the settings are adjusted correctly for you and your individual condition. It’s easy to see why devices like these might be popular. Half of people with period pain say over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen doesn’t get rid of their period pain. Most people with endometriosis report major issues with getting adequate pain relief. Some people may be allergic to the pads and their skin may become red and irritated. Speak to your GP, physiotherapist or pharmacist if you have concerns. You may need to take a short break from using TENS. Special pads are available for people with allergies. The gate control theory of pain says the spinal cord has “gates” that can be open or closed. When these gates are open, nerves can transmit these danger impulses up the spinal cord to the brain where they may be interpreted as “pain”. If these gates are closed, these impulses can’t reach the brain as easily.