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by Anna Sandner
Period plasters tested: gentle help or cold shock?
11.4.2025
Translation: machine translated
The Ricare plasters promise natural relief from abdominal and back pain during your period thanks to essential oils. I have tested them.
I prefer not to take painkillers if at all possible. For mild to moderate pain, I like to use natural alternatives. That's why the Ricare «Period Comfort» patches immediately caught my attention. The manufacturer promises natural and long-lasting relief from abdominal and back pain during your period - without any chemicals. Doesn't sound bad at first. I approached this test with an open mind, but also with a certain amount of scepticism as to whether I would feel any effect at all.
According to the manufacturer, ten per cent menthol and five per cent eucalyptus per patch are released continuously for up to twelve hours. Their pleasantly cooling and slightly tingling effect is said to be able to relieve cramps in the stomach and back area. I'm particularly intrigued by the cooling effect, because period pains actually make me feel the need for warmth. Will the cooling be an aha moment or a disappointment?
First impression: pleasant fragrance and easy to use
The plasters are sturdily and hygienically packaged and make a high-quality impression. When I opened the packaging, I was greeted by a pleasant scent of menthol and eucalyptus. The protective film is easy to peel off and the plasters can be applied to the skin without any problems. Even when removing it later, there is no unpleasant tugging or annoying adhesive residue left on the skin.
Source: Anna Sandner
Application: barely noticeable and good hold
The plasters are comfortable to wear and barely noticeable on the skin. They adhere well and securely, so I can wear them without them coming loose or slipping. If they don't fit perfectly straight away, I can easily peel them off and stick them on again. I can do this several times without losing any of the adhesive strength. This means I don't have to worry about a plaster suddenly falling on my feet in everyday life.
Cooling for period pain - is it really pleasant?
Now to the crucial point: the effect. Unfortunately (for me) this is where the big «But» comes in. The cooling effect of the plasters is very noticeable and lasts. Unfortunately, however, cold is absolutely not what helps me with period pain. I generally feel the need to warm my stomach when I have cramps in order to relax my muscles. Nevertheless, I wanted to be convinced otherwise.
This didn't work: the cold intensified the cramps rather than relieving them and the plaster felt uncomfortable for me. The result: after an hour, it finally became too much for me and I had to remove it. Pain relief? Not at all. It's a shame, because the quality of the plasters really impressed me. But I'd better stick to my tried-and-tested hot water bottle, which is relaxing and can actually relieve the pain.
Now, of course, everyone feels pain differently. What is unpleasant for me may be a relief for others. Fighting period pain with the cooling effect of essential oils was a new idea for me. I also often come across the recommendation to use heat to relax the muscles in forums and guides. However, at the end of the day, whether heat or cold helps better depends on the needs of each individual person.
Who are the plasters suitable for?
If you tend to look for cooling when you have period pain, then the Ricare period patches could be a good choice for you. If, like me, you tend to need warmth to relieve cramps, then unfortunately the patches are not suitable. I found the experience rather unpleasant and therefore cannot recommend the patches for their effect, although I was impressed by the quality, material and hold.
In a nutshell
Pleasant, but not suitable for everyone
The period plasters impress with their quality and pleasant fragrance. However, the cooling effect is not for everyone and can even increase cramping in some women. The patches are therefore only suitable for those who find cooling during period pains pleasant.
Pro
- Secure hold
- Pleasant fragrance
- High-quality workmanship
Contra
- Not suitable for everyone
- Cooling can increase cramps
Header image: Anna Sandner
Science editor and biologist. I love animals and am fascinated by plants, their abilities and everything you can do with them. That's why my favourite place is always outside - somewhere in nature, preferably in my wild garden.
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