Painful periods: what’s normal and what isn’t

Having pain during your period is common. Having severe pain should not be seen as normal. Here’s how to tell the difference and talk about it.

Why periods hurt

During your period, the uterus contracts to shed its lining, triggered by substances called prostaglandins. These contractions cause cramps in the lower belly, sometimes in the back or thighs. The pain is often worse on the first or second day.

What can ease it

• Heat: a hot water bottle on your tummy or lower back.
• Gentle movement: walking, stretching, yoga.
• Suitable painkillers, following the leaflet or your pharmacist’s advice.

Signs that mean you should see a doctor

• The pain stops you going to school, to work or doing your usual activities.
• Your usual painkillers aren’t enough.
• The pain gets worse over the months or years.
• You have pain during sex, when going to the toilet, or outside your period.

These signs can be linked to endometriosis or another treatable cause. Endometriosis affects about one woman in ten and diagnosis often takes years: not brushing off the pain already saves time.

Preparing for your appointment

A doctor needs to know when you’re in pain, how much and since when. Logging the intensity day by day, over several cycles, makes the appointment much more useful.

Ragnagna is not a medical device and does not replace advice from a health professional. If in doubt, talk to your doctor, midwife or gynaecologist.