Ellie comes into the pharmacy with her mum Michelle. Ellie has recently started her periods and is experiencing very intense pain which is making her feel nauseous and is interfering with her daily life. She’s embarrassed to talk about it but Michelle asks if there’s anything they can do to ease the pain and stop her from feeling so sick – paracetamol just doesn’t seem to cut it. Discuss:

• What further questions would you ask Ellie and Michelle?
• How can you reassure Ellie that what she's experiencing is normal and nothing to be ashamed of?
• What treatment would you recommend? Are you confident to advise about the dose and how often it should be taken?
• What self care tips would you give Ellie to ease the pain and sickness?
• What follow-up might you offer Ellie? How would you advise her if your recommendations don't work?