Menstrual Health Support
The menstrual cycle is a process where the body first prepares for possible pregnancy, then sheds the lining of the uterus to flow out of the vagina. The cycle is controlled by the rise and fall of hormones, is different for every person, and can change at different life stages.
From understanding your cycle and period care products, to managing cramps and period pain, to dealing with complex conditions like endometriosis, it’s important to have access to effective care and support. Amcal is committed to helping women navigate these issues across different life stages, offering menstrual health products and services to maintain your quality of life
Understanding Period Pain
Period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a common experience for many women and may present as cramps, aches, or a feeling of heaviness. Cramps can range from mild to severe and are usually felt in the lower abdomen, back, or legs. Period pain can be of two types, primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhoea is caused by prostaglandins, naturally occurring chemicals found in the uterine lining, triggering contractions in the uterine muscles during your period. Secondary dysmenorrhoea is caused by underlying health conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroids.1 While primary period pain is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, it can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.
It is important to speak to your GP if your period pain lasts longer than two days or is getting worse, if it inhibits your daily activities, if the pain doesn’t lessen even after taking pain relief or if you have pain in your pelvic region when you don’t have your period.
Do you have Heavy Periods?
A heavy period, also known as menorrhagia, is when you lose lots of blood each period, or you have periods lasting longer than eight days. About one in four women have heavy periods and it is most common between the ages of 30 and 50. Your Amcal pharmacist can help you complete a checklist to see if your periods are considered “heavy” and can advise you on best next steps. It is important to understand the underlying cause of heavy periods and keep an eye on iron levels which can be low in people with frequent heavy periods. Amcal pharmacies can supply and provide advice on treatments for heavy periods and low iron.
Menstrual Care Across Life Stages
At Amcal, we recognise that women’s menstrual health needs can change throughout different life stages. Here’s how we can support you:
- Adolescence and Early Adulthoo
For young women starting their menstrual journey, education on keeping a symptom diary (pain, bleeding and other symptoms) and access to appropriate products are crucial. Amcal offers a wide range of sanitary products, including pads, tampons, period underwear and menstrual cups, along with guidance on their use.Your Amcal pharmacist also provides advice on over-the-counter pain relief options, such as ibuprofen, mefenamic acid, naproxen and paracetamol as well as other options such as heat packs, acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which can help manage mild to moderate menstrual cramps.
. - Reproductive Years
During these years, women can experience varying levels of menstrual discomfort and may also start considering issues like fertility and reproductive health. In addition to period management, Amcal can support you with products for your fertility journey, such as ovulation kits and pregnancy tests. For those dealing with more severe menstrual pain, your Amcal pharmacist can offer advice on pain management options.
. - Perimenopause and Menopause
As women approach menopause, menstrual cycles can become irregular and symptoms such as hot flushes, mood changes and night sweats may occur. Your local Amcal pharmacy can dispense menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT) and provide advice on lifestyle changes and supplements available to you. Our pharmacists are available to provide personalised advice on managing menstrual changes and maintaining overall health during this time.
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Read more about perimenopause and menopause here.
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Managing Your Menstrual Cycle
Managing period pain and other symptoms such as mood changes related to your menstrual cycle requires a comprehensive approach. Visit your local Amcal pharmacy for assistance with various aspects of care:
Pain Relief Medications: Speak with your Amcal pharmacist to discuss pain relief options to assist in managing your period pain.
Hormonal Treatments: Hormonal therapies, such as contraceptive pills, or an intrauterine device (IUD), may be effective in managing period pain by regulating or stopping menstruation. Your Amcal pharmacist can provide information about these options and may be able to provide a resupply of your oral contraceptive pill.
Diet and Exercise: Regular exercise releases serotonin and endorphins which may assist in reducing symptoms during your period.2 A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D may help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Amcal offers a selection of supplements and can provide advice on finding the most appropriate option for you.
Amcal. For You. For Life.
At Amcal, we are dedicated to supporting women through all stages of life, providing comprehensive care and solutions for menstrual health. Our knowledgeable pharmacists are here to offer expert advice, personalised care, and products to help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, nutritional support, or guidance on treatment options, visit your local Amcal today to discover how we can help you on your health journey.
References:
- Managing Period Pain,Healthdirect, Managing period pain, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/managing-period-pain
- Exercise Diet Plan,The Royal Women’s Hospital, Exercise, diet & periods, https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/periods/healthy-periods/exercise-diet-periods
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia), https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/periods/heavy-periods-menorrhagia
This webpage is for general information only. Always seek the guidance of your pharmacist or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health, vaccinations or a medical condition.
We acknowledge individuals in the transgender community and people who are non-binary who might not identify as women. Efforts have been made to use neutral language. Where the word ‘woman’ has been used, we include all people with a uterus.
Last reviewed: 10 Oct 2024