Mefenamic Acid isn't working, the pill?

Question

A couple of months ago i decided to go to my Doctor about my heavy and painful periods. I mentioned that i'd like to go on the Pill. She poked and prodded at my abdomen and back, and said that she'd like to put me on Mefenamic Acid (500mg) to make my periods lighter and less painful. I have to take one tablet 3 times a day for the first 3/4 days of my period.

As i say, it's been a couple of months.

The first time i took it, it made me feel sick..but i decided i'd stick with it. The next month i didn't really have any problems, or the one after that. It's definitely made my period lighter and less painful.

However, i got my period on Sunday and took the medication as soon as i could (has to be taken on a full stomach) but i still got cramps. I then started to feel really, really sick, light-headed and had what i could only describe as like a cold sweat. I lay down and after about half an hour, i felt okay again.

It seems to be that i have problems on the first day, and am fine after that..but that was how it was without the mefenamic acid.

So i'm considering going back to the doctor, and seeing if there is another option e.g. the birth control pill. I find that i also get pretty bad pms symptoms a good week or so before my period is due (breast tenderness and mood swings)...and am looking for something which could hopefully alleviate that too.

It just seems so weird sometimes that i have such a bad time with cramps on the first day of my period and after that it's usually completely fine. I don't know, i guess i'd just like a bit of advice if anyone else has had a similar experience?

Thanks

Answer 1

Mefenamic acid is a painkiller which is especially good at treating menstrual pain, which is probably why it was prescribed. However, if side effects from mefenamic acid are unbearable and making life more difficult, then it isn't worth taking.

There is probably a different drug available that "suits you" better, and I'd say it is worth going back to the doctor, explaining all this and pushing for the drug you wanted in the first place (contraceptives)

Stomach upsets are a common side effect with the drug you are taking, but then nausea, vomiting, stomach upset and sweats can also be associated with menstruation. However, as a general rule and to stay safe, if you are convinced the symptoms are related to the drug, I'd trust my instinct (you know your body) and avoid the drug.

Contraceptive drugs to alter your hormones and change the experience of menstruation, which may be better or worse, but there are several out there to try, all aimed at different women. It may or may not help with your PMS, and it may make it worse.

I would definitely recommend going back to your doctor and discussing this, as there are plenty of other options available, and she should be discussing these with you.

If you don't feel she is doing that properly, you can always ask for a second opinion.

After all, it is your right to find a drug that suit your individual condition and lifestyle.

Good luck! x