Have you every struggled with period pain? You're not alone.
Despite the taboo that still lingers around the topic of menstrual cramps, 92 per cent of Australian women say they have experienced them. And of the women who are employed, 77 per cent say that these cramps have affected their ability to work.
We know that this is just one of many aspects of womens health that is under-studied and under-funded. While there have been some steps in the right direction, research and treatment takes time. Alas, many of us are still in a position where we suffer through debilitating and abnormal cramping each month.
If you're tired of pill after pill each month attempting to block the pain, there are actually some devices that can help you manage your menstrual pain without medication. Below, we round up our favourite devices that assist with period pain.
Scarlet Period rae Heat Pad
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The rae Heat Pad is a rechargeable implement that heats up and eases menstrual cramping. The device is curved and design to sit comfortably around your lower belly. It also comes with a pair of period underwear with a front pocket, so you can discreetly slip the rae Heat Pad into the front and wear it under your clothes. It's far more convenient than having a hot water bottle resting against your abdomen all day – its portable and has five hours of battery life.
Ovira
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This unassuming device is a pocket-sized TENS machine. It stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. It sounds scary if you've not used one before, but the Ovira is so easy to use and really works. You place two sticky pads on your abdomen, and when you turn the device on it send small electrical currents through your skin to stimulate your nerves. This blocks pain signals and allows your body to release natural painkillers. There are high and low settings for whatever is your preference.
Staci Companion
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This heating device is designed to strap around your mid section. You can wear it at the front for abdomen cramping, or you can flip it and put the heated side on your lower back too. It also comes with a massage function to help stimulate the body's natural pain killing response. It heats to 50°C-70°C, so it will be just as warm as a hot water bottle and it has three to four hours of battery life.
Knicked miniTENS+
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This brand is aimed at younger women, but can be used by anyone. Like Ovira, it's a TENS machine that numbs pain by blocking pain signals via electrical currents. This particular device is designed to be worn discreetly. Even under a school uniform. Both the pads and the actual device attach to your abdomen, so there are no cords hanging out of your shirt or pants. It has roughly five hours of battery life depending on the setting you use.
