Menstrual periods are a normal part of life for people who menstruate. But for many, it can be painful, very painful. If you have ever experienced sharp cramps that make it hard to move, you’re not alone. Severe menstrual pain is much more common than you might think.
This guide aims to help you understand what causes severe menstrual pain, how to know when it is not normal, and what you can do to manage it, both at home and with the help of a doctor.
Here is everything that you need to know to understand why this happens and what you can do.
What Is Menstrual Pain?
Menstrual pain, also called dysmenorrhea, is the cramping you feel in your lower belly during your period. Some people feel only mild discomfort, but others have pain so bad that they miss school or work.
There are two types of menstrual pain:
1.Primary Dysmenorrhea: This is the most common type of menstrual pain. It usually starts a day or two before your period and lasts a few days. The pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that cause the uterus to contract for it to shed its lining.
Any contractions of the uterus can cause cramping, lower back pain, and pain in the lower abdomen. Primary dysmenorrhea is not caused by an underlying disease. The pain usually gets less intense with age or after childbirth.
2.Secondary Dysmenorrhea: This type of pain is generally more intense and may start earlier in the cycle and last longer. This type of pain comes from an underlying medical condition involving one or more of the reproductive organs.
For example, endometriosis (the growth of tissue resembling the uterine lining outside the uterus), uterine fibroids (noncancerous growths in the uterus), or pelvic inflammatory disease. Secondary dysmenorrhea usually involves medical evaluation and directed treatment, such as physical therapy to the underlying problem.
What Does Period Pain Feel Like?
The pain can feel different for everyone. Some words people use to describe it are:
- Sharp
- Dull and achy
- Constant
- Throbbing
- Burning
You might feel it:
- In the lower belly
- In the back
- Down the legs
Some people also feel sick, tired, or dizzy during their periods. It’s not just about cramps.
Why Does Severe Pain Happen?
Here are some of the common causes of strong menstrual pain:
1. Strong Uterine Contractions
During your period, your uterus contracts to help push out the lining. These contractions are caused by chemicals called prostaglandins. If your body makes too many of them, the contractions get stronger—and more painful.
2. Endometriosis
In this condition, tissue like the lining of your uterus grows outside of it. This causes chronic pain, especially during your period.
3. Fibroids
These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. They can press on other organs and cause more pain and heavier bleeding.
4. Adenomyosis
Here, the tissue that lines your uterus starts to grow into the muscle wall. This makes your uterus thicker and more painful during periods.
5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
This is an infection in the reproductive organs. It can cause pain during your period and at other times too.
6. Cervical Stenosis
Some people have a small cervix opening. This slows the flow of blood, causing painful pressure.
When Should You Worry?
It’s normal to feel some cramps during your period. But if the pain:
- Stops you from doing your daily tasks
- Doesn’t get better with regular pain medicine
- Lasts for more than a few days
- Happens even when you’re not on your period
…then it’s time to talk to a doctor.
Severe pain is not something you have to “just deal with.” It could be a sign of an underlying issue.
How Is It Diagnosed?
If your period pain is severe, a gynaecologist may:
- Ask about your symptoms and health history
- Do a pelvic exam
- Suggest ultrasound or MRI to check for fibroids or endometriosis
- Sometimes recommend laparoscopy (a minor surgery to look inside your abdomen)
At Vardaan Hospitals, our specialists take time to listen, test, and find the real cause of your pain.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Depending on the cause of your pain, your doctor may recommend:
1. Pain relief
If you are experiencing pain, there are quite a few easy to get over the counter options like ibuprofen, naproxen and more. These medications reduce inflammation and ease cramps, making them function best when taken at the first sign of pain.
2. Hormonal treatments
Hormonal treatments include birth control pills, patches or hormone injections to help regulate hormone levels to help with lighter and less painful menstration.
3. Treat the cause
If the cause of your pain is something like endometriosis, or fibroids, your doctor may recommend:
- Hormonal therapy to slow or stop the growth of abnormal tissue
- Laparoscopy – a minor surgery – to investigate and remove endometrial tissue or fibroids
- Lifestyle changes including diet, stress management, and exercise which can alleviate symptoms and take time
- Diagnostic tests, such as pelvic ultrasound, or MRI, are offered to check for fibroids or endometrial growths
4. Surgery
In certain severe situations, or if your pain has proven difficult to manage:
- Laparoscopy – a minimally invasive procedure to inspect, explore and treat the pelvic organs
- Hysterectomy – the removal of your uterus. Usually offered when other treatments and options have been exhausted.
Simple Ways to Ease Period Pain at Home
Here are a few things that may help you feel better:
1. Heat
Use a heating pad or warm water bottle on your belly. It helps relax the muscles.
2. Gentle Exercise
Walking, stretching, or light yoga can release feel-good hormones and reduce cramps.
3. Warm Baths
A warm bath can calm your whole body and reduce pain.
4. Hydration and Healthy Eating
Drink lots of water and eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid salty or junk food.
5. Rest
Listen to your body. If you’re tired or in pain, take it easy.
How Vardaan Hospitals Can Help
If period pain is stopping you from living your life, don’t suffer in silence. At Vardaan Hospitals, we:
- Understand your pain is real
- Use modern tools to diagnose the cause
- Offer care plans tailored to your body and needs
- Have experienced gynaecologists and women’s health specialists
You deserve care that listens, understands, and heals.
Final Thoughts
Painful periods are not just “part of being a woman.” If you’re feeling severe cramps, back pain, nausea, or fatigue during your period, it’s a real health concern. And you’re not alone.
With the right help, you can find relief.
Visit Vardaan Hospitals to speak with a expert Gynaecologist who will guide you toward better, pain-free cycles. Let’s take the first step together.