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Dec. 4, 2023—Menstruation is healthy. Normal menstrual cycles, or periods, are your body's way of telling you that things are working the way they're supposed to. But, for many, the pain that often comes with periods can make life uncomfortable for a few days—or more—each month.

More than half of people who menstruate experience menstrual cramps and pain—called dysmenorrhea—each month, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Menstrual cramps are caused by prostaglandins, chemicals in the lining of the uterus that signal the uterus to contract. During your period, that lining is shed, so cramps usually become less painful after the first day or two.

Menstrual pain can be mild or severe. In severe cases, people cannot take part in their usual activities for up to several days each month during their periods.

Pain relief

If you're coping with cramps, these simple home remedies may help:

• Over-the-counter medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofren and naproxen, can relieve cramps. They are most effective if you take them early, at the first sign of pain. Follow the instructions on the label.
• Heat. Take a warm bath. Or place a hot water bottle, heating pad or self-heating patch on your abdomen.
• Exercise. Regular exercise can lessen period pain, says the Office on Women's Health. And there is no reason why you can't exercise normally during your period.
• Sleep. Don't skimp on sleep before and during your period. Getting extra ZZZs may help you feel better overall and deal with pain more easily.

Talk to your doctor

It's a good idea to tell your healthcare provider about your menstrual pain—and any other menstrual symptoms you're concerned about. Your regular gynecological exam is a great time to share your symptoms and ask for advice. Let your provider know what you are doing to treat your pain and if the remedies are working or not.

In some cases, period pain may be caused by conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids. Let your provider know if:

• Your menstrual pain is new, severe or not responsive to home treatment.
• You have clots larger than a quarter as part of your menstrual flow.
• Your pain happens during other parts of your cycle, not just during menstruation.

Sources

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods." https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods.
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ”Painful Periods.” https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/painful-periods.
• Office on Women's Health. "Period Problems." https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/period-problems.
• Office on Women's Health. "Physical Activity and Your Menstrual Cycle." https://www.womenshealth.gov/getting-active/physical-activity-menstrual-cycle.
• UpToDate. "Patient Education: Painful Menstrual Periods (Dysmenorrhea) (Beyond the Basics)." https://www.uptodate.com/contents/painful-menstrual-periods-dysmenorrhea-beyond-the-basics/print.