School Nurse Tessa Elphick wasn’t happy when some of the girls in her care were prescribed the Pill or stronger drugs like Ponstan (menfenamic acid) to control period pains, and was pleased to test a new magnetic healing device called Ladycare. This 2" circumference gadget weighs no more than a 50p piece and is clipped onto underwear next to the uterus the day before a period is due. Tessa reports that all but one girl found that the device gave significant relief. A double-blind trial at Reading Scientific Services found that 66% of those taking part took less painkillers and reported reduced pain.

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Ed.- Since this study Magnopulse have replaced Ladycare with a similar magnetic device called mn8. They now recommend Ladycare to help reduce menopausal symptoms. To read about this and other magnetic healing devices, click here.

Other alternative therapies for period pain include evening primrose oil, yoga, exercise, homoeopathy and hot water bottles. If period pain persists ask your GP to check whether there is another underlying cause, e.g. endometriosis.