Siziba Thando
Health and environment reporter
For many women, menstruation brings not only discomfort but debilitating pain that disrupts daily life.
To cope, some rely heavily on over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen, paracetamol, or aspirin — sometimes for an entire week each month.
While these medicines offer temporary relief, long-term and unsupervised use may come with serious health risks.Health experts warn that regularly consuming painkillers during every menstrual cycle can quietly damage the body over time, particularly the stomach, liver, and kidneys.
Research shows that most women do not realise that constant use of NSAIDs [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs] like ibuprofen can lead to stomach ulcers, gastritis, and acid reflux.
Paracetamol may seem harmless, but when taken in high doses or too frequently, it can quietly damage the liver, especially if combined with other medications or alcohol.
A local pharmacist in Bulawayo said:
“Ladies during their menstrual period take a lot of different medication without considering the effects of over using, I recommend sticking to one brand of medication during menstrual periods and to make sure to take after meals to avoid any complications”.
In addition to digestive and liver problems, kidney strain is another growing concern. Studies have shown that frequent NSAID use can reduce kidney function, especially in dehydrated individuals or those with existing conditions.
Menstrual pain is not just ‘normal’ if it’s unbearable. Women who depend on medication every month may be suffering from underlying conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances. Pain relief might mask these problems, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Warning Signs to Watch For:
- Needing painkillers every month for several days
- Pain that affects your ability to work or attend school
- Heavy bleeding or irregular cycles
- No improvement despite medication
Safer Alternatives and Steps:
- Use a hot water bottle or heat patches
- Maintain regular exercise and hydration
- Track your symptoms and consult a doctor if they worsen
- Don’t mix or overuse painkillers without guidance The call is clear medicine safety begins with awareness. If you or someone you know uses painkillers heavily during periods, it’s time to talk to a healthcare professional.
Pain relief is important but so is your long-term health.
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