Is smoking giving you period pain?

Reporter: Dr Peter Elton, Director of Public Health NHS Bury
Date online: 07/04/2009

Smoking takes its toll on your body in many different ways, some of which you may not realise. Did you know that smoking could be reason you suffer from period pain?

A report from the British Medical Association suggests that women who smoke 10 or more cigarettes a day are almost twice as likely to have painful periods as non-smokers. For those who have smoked for nine years or more, the risk is three and a half times greater. Smokers are also more likely to have irregular periods and shorter menstrual cycles than those who don’t smoke.

Surveys show that 70% of young women regularly use painkillers to cope with painful periods and at least 50% say the pain seriously disrupts their lives.

Going smokefree is a much more effective way to ease period pain than taking pain relieving drugs or curling up with a hot water bottle. By giving up, you could soon notice changes to the regularity of your cycle and a reduction in the severity of your period pain. You will also minimise the risk of developing serious health related problems linked to smoking, such as cancer and coronary heart disease.

If you want to quit smoking help is at hand. The Bury Stop Smoking Service offers a selection of free, confidential support sessions across the borough in pharmacies, GP practices and community centres. You can meet with our friendly, experienced advisors to decide which quit methods are best for you.

For more information please call 0845 223 9001 and take the first step towards kicking the habit for good. It’s the best decision you’ll ever make for the sake of your health.