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Most women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea can obtain pain relief from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs inhibit the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances which stimulate contraction of the uterine muscles during the menstrual cycle and cause menstrual pain.
Other drugs used for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea are oral contraceptive medications. They inhibit ovulation, reduce menstrual flow and the degree of uterine muscle contraction. They must be taken daily and are recommended for women suffering from severe forms of dysmenorrhea or who want to use pharmaceutical methods of birth control.
In addition, there are nondrug therapies that can relieve menstrual pain. The most common ones are acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).
An array of preparations that can be used to treat menstrual pain include vitamin B1 and magnesium supplements, along with herbal infusions (chamomile, mint, raspberry and blueberry) for the relief of symptoms. All help relax muscles and reduce nervous tension. In some cases, menstrual pain can be relieved with warming applications (like a hot water bottle or heating pad) placed on the abdomen.
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