WOW! Appreciated NSAIDS but now I

worship them and fear them,

I have been taking ibuprofen religiously for over a year. With excellent results. Didn't take them three cycles ago and had a good month. Took them last month so that my vacation wouldn't be ruined by bleeding, had pain mid-cycle but no excessive bleeding during cycle. Decided to skip it all together this month because progesterone is apparently controlling my bleeding.

OWWWW! WAHHH! STUPID!!! But there is a reason for abstaining from the NSAIDS. My stomach has been hurting more than usual. I have a medicine cabinet full of preparations for tummy upset (pepcid, pepcid a/c, prilosec, tums...) I really want to stop the NSAIDS on a regular basis. I am getting nervous about my GI system. Anyone with good suggestions for pelvic pain in regards to period pain and ovulation pain? I got very superficial pain relief by holding a cold-pack to my belly this cycle. Has anyone tried those patches you apply to your painful areas, anyone tried the rub on analgesics?

I would like input before I run to the store and spend money on products that may/may not work.

I respond to any pain med I take except tylenol. I need some OTC suggestions here.

Dee

Hi Dee,

I love my NSAIDs and I know it's hard to do without. I've used the ThermaCare Heatwraps and thought they felt good. Those have a sticky area that hold them to the skin. I found this pretty handy so I didn't have to stay tethered to a heating pad all day. I've never tried the gels or rubs though. Maybe ask your GYN for his/her suggestions for other OTC remedies too.

Hope you find something to make you more comfortable dear.

s,
Beth