Period Pain (Dysmenorrhoea)
Period pain, or dysmenorrhoea, is cramping pain in the lower abdomen around a period. In primary dysmenorrhoea, common in teenagers and young women, the pain comes from natural chemicals (prostaglandins) that make the womb contract, and there is no disease underneath. In secondary dysmenorrhoea the pain is caused by a condition such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids or pelvic infection, and it often starts later in life or gets steadily worse. Severe period pain is common, but it is not something you simply have to endure.
Find a Gynaecology SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Cramping pain in the lower abdomen starting just before or with the period
- Pain spreading to the lower back and thighs
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea with the pain
- Headache and tiredness
- Pain that stops you going to work or school
- Pain that has worsened over the years, or pain during sex (a possible underlying cause)
When to See a Doctor
See a gynaecologist if period pain stops you working or going to school, is not helped by regular pain relief, has got worse over time, started after years of painless periods, or comes with heavy bleeding, pain during sex or difficulty conceiving. Go to an emergency department for sudden severe pelvic pain with fever, fainting, or a missed period.
Treatment options
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or mefenamic acid, started at the first sign of a period
- Heat, exercise and rest
- The combined pill, the hormonal coil or other hormonal treatment
- Pelvic ultrasound to look for an underlying cause
- Treatment of the cause, such as endometriosis, fibroids or infection
- Laparoscopy where endometriosis is suspected
Common Questions
Is it normal for period pain to make me faint or vomit?
Mild cramps are common. Pain bad enough to make you vomit, faint or miss work regularly is not something you have to accept, and it can be a sign of endometriosis. It deserves an assessment.
Will period pain stop after I have a baby?
Some women find primary period pain eases after childbirth or with age, but this is not guaranteed and is not a reason to delay treatment. Pain from endometriosis or adenomyosis does not reliably improve after pregnancy.
Can hormonal contraception help period pain?
Yes. The combined pill, the hormonal coil and other hormonal methods reduce or stop period pain for many women, and fertility returns once they are stopped.
Need Help?
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