Period Pains

(Dysmenorrhoea)

Period pain is one of the most common symptoms people experience during their menstrual cycles, but not all period pain is the same. Some discomfort is typical, while severe cramps can signal something deeper. This article breaks down the science of dysmenorrhea, the medical term for painful menstruation.

What Is Dysmenorrhea?

Dysmenorrhea refers to painful menstrual cramps felt in the lower abdomen just before and during a period. The pain can range from mild annoyance to debilitating cramps that disrupt daily life. It is caused by the uterus contracting to shed its lining.

How Period Pain Happens

During your cycle, the body produces hormone-like substances called prostaglandins in the uterine lining. These trigger uterine contractions, rhythmic tightening of the uterus, which helps expel the lining when you menstruate.

• Higher prostaglandin levels = stronger contractions

• Stronger contractions = more intense pain

Essentially, period pain is your uterus doing its job, but when the contractions are too intense or prolonged, that’s when you feel it as cramps.

Typical Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea

• Cramping pain in the lower abdomen

• Pain that may radiate to the lower back and thighs

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headaches

• Loose stools or diarrhoea

• Fatigue or dizziness

While many people get cramps that are annoying or uncomfortable, dysmenorrhea is the clinical term for when those cramps are significant or recurrent.

Two Types of Dysmenorrhea

Primary Dysmenorrhea

• Most common form

• Pain without any underlying reproductive system disease

• Usually starts within a few years of first menstruation

• Often strongest during the first 24–48 hours of bleeding

Primary dysmenorrhea is typically linked to natural hormonal activity and prostaglandin production during menstruation.

Secondary Dysmenorrhea

• Pain caused by an underlying condition

• Can begin later in life or change in severity over time

• Conditions that may cause it include:

  • Endometriosis

  • Adenomyosis

  • Fibroids

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease

Secondary dysmenorrhea may continue beyond the first few days of menstruation and may be more constant or progressive.

How Common Is Dysmenorrhea?

Period pain is extremely common:

• Many people experience mild cramps every cycle

• A sizeable minority experience moderate to severe cramps that interfere with daily life

For some, cramps are a predictable part of their monthly rhythm. For others, severe pain can lead to missed school, work or social activities.

Managing & Treating Dysmenorrhea

You don’t have to suffer in silence. There are several effective ways to ease period pain:

Medications

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) reduce prostaglandin production and relieve cramps

• Paracetamol can help, though NSAIDs are generally more effective for menstrual pain

Lifestyle Techniques

• Warm heat (hot water bottle, heat patches)

• Gentle exercise or stretching

• Relaxation techniques

• Staying hydrated

See a Healthcare Provider If:

You notice:

• Pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments

• Pain that worsens over time

• Pain that interrupts daily life regularly

• Other symptoms like heavy bleeding, painful intercourse or bowel/bladder pain

These could indicate secondary dysmenorrhea or another reproductive health condition that warrants evaluation.

Medical Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with concerns about your health