Every month, the same story: cramps in your lower abdomen, back pain, and the feeling that you just want to stay in bed. If you're among those who experience significant menstrual pain, you know how much it can disrupt your day - and sometimes your entire week. But which products actually help, and where can you buy them at the best price?
What is menstrual pain?
Dysmenorrhea, the medical term for menstrual pain, affects between 50 and 90 percent of women. Cramps occur because your uterus contracts to shed its lining. Your body produces prostaglandins - substances that intensify contractions and are responsible for that pain.
Pain relief: what works best?
Ibuprofen - the gold standard
Ibuprofen is an NSAID most commonly recommended by doctors for menstrual pain. It inhibits prostaglandin production, addressing the cause rather than just masking the pain.
Nurofen 400mg Tablets range from €5.29 to €9.26 depending on the pharmacy - nearly a €4 difference.
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Nurofen 200mg Tablets (48 pieces) are available at 3 pharmacies, ranging from €6.72 to €9.25.
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Paracetamol - the gentler alternative
Dafalgan Caps Forte 1g (40 capsules) shows a remarkable price difference: from €3.40 to €14.50. That's a potential saving of over €11.
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Natural alternatives
A.Vogel Menstruation Tablets based on Agnus castus (monk's pepper) are available from €8.07.
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Period underwear
Saforelle Menstrual Briefs offer a comfortable and reusable alternative, available from €23.34.
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Compare and save
Price differences between Belgian pharmacies can be staggering. Compare prices on PharmaCompare to find the best deals at Viata, Farmaline, and Medi-Market.
Source: article inspired by a review on Miss Prettiness.