I’ve always struggled with period pain, but it wasn’t until recently that I realized it might be more than just physical discomfort. The constant cramps left me feeling low, and I found myself spiraling into depression. Turns out, the two are linked—something I wish I’d known sooner.

For many people who menstruate, experiencing pain during their periods is a normal part of life. Up to 90% of those who menstruate will report some degree of discomfort, with severe cases suffering from cramps, pelvic pain, and other symptoms of dysmenorrhea. However, a study published in the journal Briefings in Bioinformatics suggests that for some individuals, the link between period pain and depression may not just be circumstantial. Instead, the study reveals a strong genetic connection between depression and menstrual pain, raising important questions about the deeper causes of this widespread issue.

How is Period Pain Linked to Depression?

Dysmenorrhea, or menstrual pain, is often ascribed to physical factors, such as the contractions of the uterus stimulated by hormone-driven chemicals known as prostaglandins. This usually lasts for a few days and occurs in the pelvis or abdomen during the beginning of menstruation. Many people attribute this to the mood swings and irritability that often come with having a period, sometimes concluding that depression is just a response to the physical pain.

However, the recent study led by Dr. John Moraros from Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in China suggests that depression itself could be contributing to the severity of period pain. This research challenges the traditional understanding of dysmenorrhea by identifying specific genes that appear to influence both menstrual pain and depression, establishing a genetic pathway through which these two conditions may be intertwined.

This study employed a technique called Mendelian randomization, which can help researchers to establish causal relations without conducting direct experiments. Based on the analysis of genetic data from over 600,000 individuals in European populations and 8,000 in East Asian populations, the authors searched for correlations between genes associated with depression and genes associated with menstrual pain. What they found was important: depression appeared to increase the risk for menstrual pain by 51%. In addition, they identified several genetic pathways and proteins by which depression could influence reproductive function, and their findings suggest that the mood disorder may not simply worsen pain but may even contribute to causing it.

Further complicating the relationship, the study found that sleep disturbances, common among those with depression, might worsen the connection between depression and dysmenorrhea. However, no evidence was found to suggest that menstrual pain directly caused depression, challenging previous theories that period pain might trigger depressive symptoms.

One of the most interesting aspects of this study is the identification of specific genetic pathways that may link depression with menstrual pain. The genetic information indicates that some genes may both regulate mood and function in reproductive systems, thus opening a novel perspective of how mental health is interlinked with physical well-being. This discovery does open up new avenues for therapy and preventive measures, but it might be possible that these treatments target the genetic pathways common to both conditions in order to treat both concurrently.

While the finding is exciting, experts say that the relationship cannot be nearly as simple. "Genetic connections make for very good associations, but that's not the same thing as saying that they're causal, that environmental factors aren't much of the game," points out Claudio Soares, a president of the Menopause Society. He said environmental factors, for instance lifestyle choices, could be crucial in the interplay between depression and menstrual pain. Since personal data on the severity and treatment of depression was not present in the study, the results may not hold for every individual in the same manner.

Interplay of Hormones, Genetics and Mental Health

It's a two-way street between depression and menstrual pain. Many report suffering more intensely from pain if their brain is processing pain differently than before. This heightened sensitivity makes menstrual pain feel impossible, adding to the cycle of discomfort. The emotional stress associated with chronic pain can further create or exacerbate feelings of depression, making things more complicated.

Secondary causes of dysmenorrhea include conditions like endometriosis. It's a chronic disorder in which tissue like that of the uterine lining grows outside the uterus and causes severe pain, inability to conceive, and predisposition to developing mood disorders. A condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids may make it harder for women to fight against chronic pain and mental illness.

Managing Depression and Period Pain: What You Can Do

If you have debilitating pain during your periods, remember that it does not mean you are depressed. However, if this pain is affecting your quality of life and ibuprofen, heat pads, or even over-the-counter remedies have failed to provide relief, professional evaluation is in order. It may help to evaluate for underlying mood disorders or secondary causes of dysmenorrhea, such as fibroids or infections.

As regards managing both depression and painful periods, holistic management is crucial. Exercise, yoga, stress-reduction techniques, dietary changes, and good sleep hygiene have been shown to improve both menstrual pain and mood. In individuals who are unable to control symptoms by modifying lifestyle, some form of medication such as antidepressants, pain relievers, or hormonal treatments will be needed.

Could Early Menarche Play a Key Role in Mental Health

An important but not much addressed aspect of menstrual health is the age when an individual starts menstruating. According to research, early-aged starters are at a higher risk of experiencing depression later in life. It might be due to hormonal imbalance that affects the regulation of emotions and reproductive health. Even though early menarche is not discussed in detail within this study, perhaps recognizing the role it can play might be useful in both handling period pain and the related depression of those affected by such factors.

Depression and menstrual pain present an intriguing interaction that begs to be studied in greater detail as well. While there is still much that needs to be learned, the findings are still hopeful for an integrated manner of treating both conditions. By addressing the genetic and hormonal pathways that contribute to both menstrual pain and depression, we may make more effective, personalized treatments aimed at improving the quality of life for millions of people worldwide.

The use of nicotine pouches is rising sharply across the UK, especially among young adults, recent research suggests. These small pouches sit between the lip and gum and release nicotine gradually into the body. Available in many flavours, they often include sweeteners and plant-based fibres. But are they truly a better option than smoking, or could nicotine pouches still pose health risks? We take a closer look below.

What Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free sachets that contain nicotine powder along with flavourings and fillers. They are placed between the lip and gum, similar to snus, allowing nicotine to be absorbed without smoke, vapour, or spitting. Marketed as a discreet way to consume nicotine, they still deliver a highly addictive substance and expose users to certain chemicals. Health experts have raised concerns, particularly for young people, despite these products often being promoted as a “safer” choice than cigarettes.

Popular brands such as Zyn, On!, and Velo now dominate a fast-growing market, according to the CDC. Like vaping, they do not contain tobacco and are generally viewed as less harmful than smoking.

A recent study led by researchers at University College London (UCL) found that over the past five years, about 522,000 additional people in the UK have started using nicotine pouches, with usage rising from 0.1% to 1% of the adult population.

This has raised an important question: are nicotine pouches actually safer than smoking, and what is driving their sudden popularity?

Nicotine Pouches: Is Using Them Safer Than Smoking?

Speaking on *Mornings with Ridge and Frost*, lead study author Dr Harry Tattan-Birch from UCL’s Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care told Sky News that the risks linked to nicotine pouches are much lower than those associated with smoking. “There’s no tobacco and no combustion,” he explained. “And we know it’s the burning of tobacco that causes most smoking-related diseases.”

That said, Dr Tattan-Birch and his colleagues stressed that these products are not harmless and should never be accessible to children. The NHS notes that while nicotine itself does not cause serious diseases in the way tobacco does, young people’s developing brains and lungs are more vulnerable to its effects, and dependency can form quickly.

UCL research fellow Eve Taylor also told Sky News that nicotine pouches are “far less harmful than smoking,” but cautioned that they are still relatively new. Because of this, their long-term effects are not yet fully understood. “We can look at what’s in them to estimate potential risks,” she said. “They’re not risk-free. Users are still exposed to some toxic substances, even if the levels are much lower.”

Nicotine Pouches: Are Pouches Helping People Quit Smoking?

According to UCL’s findings, among participants surveyed between January 2022 and March 2025, 69% of nicotine pouch users were also using other nicotine products. More than half of them, 56%, were still smoking cigarettes. Around one in six users, or 16%, reported that they had never been regular smokers, suggesting the habit was not linked to quitting cigarettes.

As quoted by Sky News, Dr Tattan-Birch said the public health impact of nicotine pouches depends largely on who is using them. “If a young person who might otherwise smoke switches to pouches, that could reduce harm,” he said. “But if someone who wouldn’t have used nicotine at all starts using them, the risk of harm goes up.”

Researchers added that more studies are needed to understand whether nicotine pouches genuinely help people stop smoking in the long run.

Are Nicotine Patches Harmful For Health?

Nicotine patches are widely regarded as safer than smoking and are a well-established aid for quitting. They provide a steady dose of nicotine to reduce cravings without exposing users to tar or cancer-causing chemicals found in cigarettes. However, they are not completely without side effects. Common issues include skin irritation, headaches, and sleep disturbances. People with serious heart conditions or those who are pregnant are advised to speak with a doctor before using them, as nicotine can still affect heart rate and blood pressure, though far less dangerously than smoking, according to the CDC.

People have been advised not to rely on a commonly used medicine when dealing with flu or cold symptoms. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released an important warning about the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are drugs designed to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing bacteria or stopping them from growing and multiplying. But why are health authorities urging caution against antibiotics during the current rise in flu cases?

Flu Influenza: Super Flu Cases Rising In UK And US

This year, a new strain of influenza, known as influenza A H3N2 or the subclade K variant, is spreading quickly across several countries, including the United States, according to Fox News. This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an 8.1% increase in positive flu tests across the country.

The UK is facing a similar situation. The NHS has warned that hospitals in England are dealing with a “worst case scenario” this December due to a surge in so-called “super flu” cases. An average of 2,660 patients per day were hospitalised with flu during the first week of December, the highest number ever recorded for this time of year and a 55% jump from the previous week.

Flu Influenza: Why Is UKHSA Warning Against Taking Antibiotics During Super Flu?

Antibiotics are medicines specifically meant to fight bacterial infections by destroying bacteria or preventing them from spreading. This helps the body’s immune system clear the infection. However, it is important to understand that antibiotics do not work on viral infections. These include illnesses such as the common cold, flu, and COVID-19.

In a post shared on social media platform X, the UKHSA stated: “Antibiotics don’t work for colds and flu – pharmacists can advise you on how to treat your symptoms.”

Flu Influenza: Guidelines On Using Antibiotics During Super Flu

The UKHSA has urged people to follow a few “simple” rules when it comes to antibiotics:

• Don’t take them for colds or flu
• Don’t save them to use later
• Take them exactly as prescribed

This advice comes as flu cases continue to rise across the UK. Data from the UKHSA showed that in the week ending December 7, flu positivity in England increased, with the weekly average reaching 21 per cent, up from 17 per cent the week before.

Hospital admissions linked to flu also rose to 10.05 per 100,000 people, compared with 8.09 per 100,000 previously.

Flu Influenza: Antibiotic-Resistant Infections

The warning follows the publication of the UKHSA’s English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilisation and Resistance (ESPAUR) report in November. The report revealed that around 400 people each week in England are diagnosed with antibiotic-resistant infections.

These infections are harder to treat and can result in serious health problems. Experts say that the excessive use of antibiotics over time has reduced their effectiveness, leading to the rise of so-called “superbugs.”

The NHS explains that these are types of bacteria that have developed resistance to several antibiotic treatments, including:

• MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
• Clostridium difficile (C. diff)
• The bacteria responsible for multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis

The NHS has warned: “These infections can be serious and difficult to treat, and are becoming an increasing cause of disability and death worldwide. The greatest concern is that new strains of bacteria could develop that cannot be treated with any existing antibiotics.”

Dr Alicia Demirjian, consultant epidemiologist and clinical lead for antimicrobial resistance and prescribing at the UKHSA, said: “Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to modern medicine, but the good news is that we can all help reduce it.”

When a GP prescribes antibiotics, it is vital to follow the instructions carefully and not miss any doses.

The NHS advises: “If you forget to take a dose of your antibiotics, check the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine to see what to do. If you’re unsure, speak to a pharmacist or your GP.

“In most cases, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember and then continue the course as normal. But if it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and carry on with your regular schedule.” You should never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Antibiotics or any other medicines should only be taken after consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Always follow the guidance of your doctor, pharmacist, or local health authority regarding diagnosis and treatment.

Ozempic (semaglutide) has quickly become a widely used drug for managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss. With its growing use, many people are wondering whether it has any interaction with alcohol. There have also been reports suggesting that Ozempic may reduce alcohol cravings in some users.

While it is not always necessary to completely avoid alcohol while taking Ozempic, doctors say there are certain side effects and risks that should not be ignored. To understand this better, we spoke with Dr Monika Sharma, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology at Aakash Healthcare.

Also Read: Nicotine Pouches: Are They Really A Safer Alternative To Smoking, Or Just Another Health Risk?

Can Ozempic Make Alcohol Hit Twice as Hard?

Yes, alcohol can feel noticeably stronger when taken alongside medications like Ozempic, and this has a lot to do with how the drug alters digestion, metabolism, and brain signalling. Ozempic belongs to a class of medicines called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes and is increasingly used for weight management. One of its key actions is slowing down stomach emptying, meaning that both food and liquids stay in the stomach longer before moving into the intestines.

Dr Sharma explains, “When alcohol is consumed, delayed gastric emptying can lead to uneven absorption. In some people, alcohol enters the bloodstream later but more rapidly once absorption begins, which can raise blood alcohol levels faster and intensify intoxication even with smaller amounts.”

Ozempic and Alcohol: Reduced Appetite and Drinking On An Empty Stomach

Another major factor is appetite suppression. Many people on Ozempic eat significantly less or skip meals altogether, either intentionally or due to reduced hunger. Drinking alcohol on an empty or nearly empty stomach allows it to be absorbed more quickly, as there is little food to slow the process. As a result, an amount of alcohol that once felt manageable may suddenly cause dizziness, flushing, nausea, or loss of coordination much sooner than expected.

Also Read: Delhi Sees Rising Cancer Burden With Sharp Increase in Oral and Lung Cancers; Breast Cancer Remains Most Common

Ozempic and Alcohol: Brain Effects and Alcohol Sensitivity

Ozempic also affects areas of the brain linked to reward, fullness, and impulse control. Emerging research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists may lower cravings for substances like alcohol, while at the same time increasing sensitivity to its effects. This means that even if the desire to drink decreases, the body’s reaction to alcohol may feel stronger or more unpleasant. Many users report unusual tiredness, light headedness, or nausea after just one drink, often describing it as alcohol “hitting twice as hard.”

Ozempic and Alcohol: Blood Sugar Changes and Hypoglycemia Risk

Blood sugar regulation is another concern. Alcohol can cause fluctuations in glucose levels, and when combined with a medication that tightly controls insulin release and glucose use, the risk of low blood sugar increases, particularly for people with diabetes. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shaking, confusion, and palpitations. These signs can resemble alcohol intoxication or worsen its effects, making the experience more intense and potentially dangerous.

Ozempic and Alcohol: Dehydration and Slower Recovery

Dehydration also plays a role. Ozempic can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and reduced fluid intake, all of which increase the risk of dehydration. Alcohol further depletes fluids, and when the body is already low on hydration, alcohol’s impact on the brain and heart becomes stronger. This can lead to faster intoxication, headaches, and a longer recovery time after drinking.

Ozempic and Alcohol: Gut Sensitivity and Worsening Side Effects

Gastrointestinal sensitivity should also be considered. Ozempic commonly causes nausea, bloating, acid reflux, and stomach discomfort, especially in the early months of treatment. Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter, which can worsen these symptoms. Together, even small amounts of alcohol can trigger stronger negative reactions, reinforcing the feeling that tolerance has suddenly dropped.

Why Alcohol Feels Stronger On Ozempic

While Ozempic does not directly interact with alcohol the way some medications do, its indirect effects on digestion, hydration, metabolism, and the nervous system can make alcohol feel more potent. This is why moderation is strongly advised. People taking Ozempic should limit alcohol intake, avoid drinking on an empty stomach, stay well hydrated, and pay close attention to how their body responds.

In short, Ozempic can make alcohol feel stronger not because it increases alcohol levels directly, but because it changes how the body processes and reacts to alcohol. Being aware of this interaction can help people make safer, more informed choices while using this medication.