If your GP feels that you have secondary dysmenorrhoea, they may arrange further tests (such as an ultrasound scan) or refer you to a specialist (usually a gynaecologist) for their opinion and other investigations. The investigations that are carried out depend on the likely underlying problem. They may include: The electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles. They may also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. What TENS is used for The gate control theory of pain says the spinal cord has “gates” that can be open or closed. When these gates are open, nerves can transmit these danger impulses up the spinal cord to the brain where they may be interpreted as “pain”. If these gates are closed, these impulses can’t reach the brain as easily.

It’s easy to see why devices like these might be popular. Half of people with period pain say over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen doesn’t get rid of their period pain. Most people with endometriosis report major issues with getting adequate pain relief. Ova + is small and compact, making it comfortable to wear while performing day-to-day activities and able to be worn under clothes without being seen. Ova + provides easy, drug-free period pain relief all day long. No tolerance is built to pain relief stays effective, and you can even wear it while you sleep. Take a strong enough dose. If your pains are not eased, ask your doctor or pharmacist if the dose that you are taking is the maximum allowed. An increase in dose may be all that you need. Some people cannot take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers. For example, people with a stomach ulcer, and some people with asthma. TENS machines are not new. They’ve been around since the 1970s and have been used for a variety of painful conditions, from muscular injuries to pain relief in labour.

Again, the main symptom is lower tummy pain during your periods (menstrual cramps). With secondary dysmenorrhoea, your periods tend to become more painful after several years of 'normal' periods (that is, periods with normal, mild, period pains).

If you are going to use the device occasionally (less than 4-5 days per month) you may just need a device that allows you to change the intensity. This is a general guide on how to use a TENS machine. Always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions. Start on a low setting and gradually increase it until the sensation feels strong but comfortable. If the tingling sensation starts to feel painful or uncomfortable, reduce it slightly. A systematic review in 2022 found four studies looking at TENS to manage primary dysmenorrhea (period pain that occurs without any physical changes in the pelvis).The period pain relief offered by Ova + stretches beyond the regular menstrual cramps. It effectively provides pain relief from secondary period pains that are caused by health conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease.

There was a significant reduction in period pain when high-frequency TENS (more than 50 pulses per second) was compared to sham TENS (where the machine looks the same but doesn’t deliver a pulse). There's not enough good-quality scientific evidence to say for sure whether TENS is a reliable method of pain relief. More research is needed and clinical trials are ongoing. To get the best relief, the machine should be turned up high enough so it delivers noticeable pulses, but is not painful. So you need to find your own comfort level.

However, if you turn up the intensity too high it can be uncomfortable. You could also get a rash from the adhesive on the pads. TENS may be able to help reduce pain and muscle spasms caused by a wide range of conditions including: TENS machines stimulate the release of these chemicals, with different types of endogenous opioids released depending on the frequency of stimulation.

Some people may be allergic to the pads and their skin may become red and irritated. Speak to your GP, physiotherapist or pharmacist if you have concerns. You may need to take a short break from using TENS. Special pads are available for people with allergies.

Are there any risks of side effects?

You can choose to buy your own TENS machine without getting medical advice, but it's generally better to have a proper assessment first, so you can find out whether a TENS machine is appropriate for you and be taught how to use it properly. Tests and an internal (pelvic) examination are not normally needed unless symptoms are unusual. In that case an underlying cause of painful periods (secondary dysmenorrhoea) may be suspected. Secondary dysmenorrhoea Switch the TENS machine off after you've finished using it and remove the electrodes from your skin. Are there any risks of side effects? you're pregnant, or there's a chance you might be pregnant – TENS may not be recommended early in pregnancy