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Author:Kangdi 23-10-2023
Every month many women suffer from painful menstrual cramps. The medical term for painful periods is dysmenorrhea. It can disrupt your daily life and routines. Over-the-counter medications provide some relief but can cause side effects. An alternative solution to find relief from period pain are topical pain relief patches. Read on to learn how these affordable patches can provide targeted cramp relief without medication side effects.
01. What Causes Period Cramps and Pain?
Menstrual cramps result from contractions in the uterus caused by prostaglandins chemicals. Higher levels of prostaglandins are linked to more severe menstrual cramps. Other factors contributing to cramps include:
Abnormalities in the uterus like fibroids or polyps
Endometriosis where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus
Adenomyosis causing the uterine lining to grow into the uterine wall
Cervical stenosis narrowing the opening of the cervix
Use of birth control methods like IUDs or pills
Symptoms of period cramps include pain in the lower abdomen, back and thighs. Cramps may be accompanied by nausea, headaches, diarrhea and general fatigue. They can range from dull and annoying to severe and debilitating.
02. Benefits of Using Pain Relief Patches for Cramps
Trying to go about your day when experiencing painful cramps is difficult. Taking oral medication can provide some relief but also lead to side effects like drowsiness. Applying a menthol pain relief patch directly on your abdomen is an easy way to alleviate cramps without medication side effects.
Here are the benefits of using pain relief patches:
Convenient - Just stick on a patch and get relief delivered over 8-12 hours
Easy to Use - Apply right on the painful area of cramps
Avoid Medication Side Effects - Topical patches don't pass through digestive system
Provides Heating Sensation - Menthol improves blood flow to relax cramped muscles
Long-Lasting Relief - Steady delivery over 8-12 hours
Low Cost - Available over-the-counter and affordable
03. How Do Pain Relief Patches Alleviate Cramps?
Pain relief patches for cramps contain active ingredients like menthol and camphor. These create a gentle heating or chilling sensation that distracts your nerves from transmitting pain signals. When applied to the skin, these ingredients penetrate deep below the skin surface. They temporarily relieve pain by irritating nerve endings.
The increased blood flow to the area also helps relax the cramping and contracting muscles. Pain relief patches are designed to provide long-lasting relief for up to 8-12 hours. The effects peak in about 1-2 hours after applying the patch firmly on clean, dry skin.
04. Best Pain Relief Patches for Cramps
There are many over-the-counter options when it comes to pain relief patches:
Salonpas Pain Relieving Patches use menthol to provide temporary relief from aches and pains. They are the #1 doctor recommended patch brand.
Icy Hot Max Strength Medicated Patch contains menthol plus the pain reliever trolamine salicylate to numb and cool.
Bengay Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Patch uses a deep heating formula with menthol and camphor.
Aspercreme Large Patch with lidocaine targets and numbs pain receptors.
Thermacare Menstrual Cramp Relief Heatwraps provide gentle low-level heat in addition to menthol.
05. Tips for Using Relief Patches
Here are some tips for getting the most relief from topical pain patches when treating period cramps:
Apply patches a day before your period is expected to prevent cramps
Use patches on clean dry skin and rub firmly to adhere
Place patches on the abdomen or lower back area where cramping occurs
Reapply fresh patches as needed for 12 hours of coverage
Remove used patches gently and avoid applying to the same area
Never apply a heating patch on top of the patch as this can cause skin burns
06. See Your Doctor for Severe Menstrual Pain
While patches can provide temporary relief for mild cramps, severe dysmenorrhea may require further treatment. See your gynecologist if you have excessive pain that interrupts daily life or nausea and vomiting along with cramps. You may need prescription strength NSAID pain medications or even hormonal birth control to ease severe cramping pain. For endometriosis, other options include surgery or ablation procedures.
07. Frequently Asked Questions about Pain Relief Patches
Here are answers to some common questions about using topical pain patches:
1. How long does it take for cramp relief patches to work?
Patches start providing relief within 30-60 minutes after application. Maximal pain relief is experienced 1-2 hours after applying.
2. Are relief patches only for menstrual cramps?
No, patches can also provide relief from backaches, arthritis, muscle strains, bruises, and joint pain.
3. Can I use patches with other cramp medications?
Yes, it is safe to use patches along with over-the-counter pain medications as directed. Avoid applying heat sources on top of relief patches.
4. Do relief patches have side effects?
When used as directed, patches rarely cause side effects beyond mild skin irritation or redness at the site of application. Discontinue use if rash or burning develops.
Don't let menstrual cramps cramp your style each month. Pain relief patches provide an easy, affordable way to alleviate period cramps. Simply apply a menthol patch directly on areas of discomfort. The cooling relief can help you get through your day with less pain and discomfort. However, visit your gynecologist right away if your cramps seem excessively severe each month. With the right treatment plan, you can minimize disruptive period pain.