Menstrual problems

Question 1

What is period pain (3)

Answer 1

1. usually a cramping spasm in the lower abdomen that usually starts on the first day of the menstrual cycle
2. usually lasts 48 to 72 hours, although it can last longer.
3. It can be accompanied by headaches, nausea, tiredness, dizziness, weakness and diarrhoea.

Question 2

When should you refer someone with period pain (6)

Answer 2

1. Have pains that are getting worse each month or are very severe
2. Have a fever
3. Have thick or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
4. Experience pain during sexual intercourse
5. Have abnormal bleeding (for example bleeding between periods) as well as pain
6. Are older than 30 years – period pain in this age group needs further investigation

Question 3

What is used to treat period pain (3)

Answer 3

1. is most effectively treated with anNSAIDsince these have a particular action against body chemicals called prostaglandins.
2. The levels of prostaglandins are raised during bouts of period pain, and it is thought that reducing them will help with the pain.
3. Certain customers including people with asthma and people with stomach ulcers may not be able to take these. They can takeparacetamolalthough it may not be as effective.

Question 4

What is pre-menstrual syndrome/pre-menstrual tension (5)

Answer 4

1. Both of these terms can be used to cover the same collection of symptoms that can affect women before their periods.
2. Some women experience the symptoms just before their period
3. some experience them in mid-cycle
4. generally the symptoms disappear when bleeding starts.
5. It is most likely to affect women between their mid 20s to their early 40s.

Question 5

What are PMS/PMT symptoms (13)

Answer 5

1. Mood swings
2. Irritability and restlessness
3. Bloating and increased weight
4. Swelling of the feet or hands
5. Headache and backache
6. Appetite changes or food craving
7. Depression
8. Tiredness
9. Stomach pain
10. Nausea
11. Dizziness
12. Muscle and joint pain
13. Trouble sleeping

Question 6

What can cause PMS/PMT (6)

Answer 6

1. Hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle
2. Chemical changes in the brain: for example serotonin
3. Women who do minimal exercise are more likely to be affected by PMS
4. Stress can worsen the symptoms of PMS worse
5. Certain foods can also contribute to the symptoms, for example, eating excessive salty food
6. Alcohol and caffeine-containing drinks can affect the mood and low levels of vitamins and minerals can worsen the symptoms of PMS

Question 7

What treatment is there for PMS/PMT (4)

Answer 7

1. For women who get mild to moderate symptoms of PMS, it may be worthwhile advising them to make diet and lifestyle changes before looking to treat the symptoms with medicines.
2. Women may want to try supplements such as vitamin B6, however there is limited evidence for their use and the pharmacist should check for any interactions with other medicines they are taking.
3. Vitamin B6 may contribute to the regulation of hormonal activity.
4. If symptoms are mild, women can benefit from dietary and lifestyle changes

Question 8

What are dietary changes for PMS/PMT (5)

Answer 8

1. eating smaller meals more frequently
2. avoiding salty and sugary foods
3. drinking sufficient water.
4. Increasing exercise
5. stopping smoking