Over The Counter Medicine To Stop Your Period
Menstruation, also known as periods, is a normal physiological phenomenon in women. It occurs every month and lasts for an average of three to seven days. However, sometimes periods can be inconvenient and disrupt your daily activities, such as sports events, vacations, or important meetings. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help you stop or delay your period temporarily. In this article, we will discuss the different types of OTC medicines available and their effectiveness.
What Are The Types Of OTC Medicines Available?
There are two types of OTC medicines available to stop or delay your period: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal medicines contain synthetic versions of the female sex hormones, estrogen, and progesterone. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation. Non-hormonal medicines work by constricting the blood vessels in the uterus, reducing the blood flow and thus, delaying or stopping the period.
Hormonal Medicines
The following hormonal medicines are available over the counter:
1. Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation. To delay or stop your period, you need to skip the placebo pills and start a new pack of active pills. However, this method may not be suitable for all women, especially those with a history of blood clots or breast cancer. Also, birth control pills can cause side effects, such as nausea, headaches, and mood swings.
2. Progestin-Only Pills
Progestin-only pills, also known as mini-pills, contain only progestin, a synthetic version of progesterone. They work by thickening the cervical mucus, which makes it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. To delay or stop your period, you need to take the pills continuously without taking any breaks. However, progestin-only pills can cause irregular bleeding, acne, and weight gain.
3. Hormonal Injections
Hormonal injections contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation. To delay or stop your period, you need to get the injection at least two weeks before your period is due. However, hormonal injections can cause side effects, such as weight gain, headaches, and mood swings.
Non-Hormonal Medicines
The following non-hormonal medicines are available over the counter:
1. Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation. It can also reduce the menstrual flow and delay the period. To delay your period, you need to start taking ibuprofen three to four days before your period is due and continue taking it for up to two weeks. However, ibuprofen can cause side effects, such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
2. Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid is a medication that reduces the blood flow during menstruation. It works by preventing the breakdown of blood clots in the uterus. To reduce the menstrual flow, you need to start taking tranexamic acid as soon as your period starts and continue taking it for up to five days. However, tranexamic acid can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, and diarrhea.
Conclusion
Over the counter medicines can be useful in delaying or stopping your period temporarily. However, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before using any OTC medicines, especially if you have a history of medical conditions or taking any other medications. Also, OTC medicines can cause side effects, and their effectiveness may vary from person to person. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh the benefits and risks before using any OTC medicines to stop or delay your period.