Managing period pain and when to seek help

Debilitating period pain is more common than you think, but like much that modern women go through, many of us try to cover it up and plod on regardless. Period pain can occur at varying times throughout your cycle and is unique to each woman. For those with light to moderate pain, it’s possible to manage it yourself, whilst those with more severe pain may need to see a specialist. Read on for some top tips to deal with your period pain.

Why does period pain occur?

Period pain is caused by muscular contractions of the womb. These occur all through the month but with more vigour before and during your period to help the lining of the womb shed. For some women, this pain is most acute when they ovulate; for others, it is most acute in the run up to their actual period and during the first couple of days of it. Some women might even experience both. Period pain can happen at any point during your reproductive lifecycle.

Pain Relief – what you can do

Contrary to instinct, one of the best things you can do is get active. As much as you want to lie on the sofa under a blanket with a bar of chocolate, a long walk is more likely to reduce the pain of the cramps. Pain relief medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin can also really help with period pain, although if your pain is severe or persistent then you may need to see a health professional for something stronger. A hot water bottle or ‘wheaty’ warmer can also work wonders with this kind of muscular pain. A warm bath can be good too, as can relaxing exercises such as yoga, pilates or meditation, which may help distract you from the pain.

Could period pain indicate something worse?

In less common cases, moderate to severe period pain can be a sign of a more serious condition. This includes adenomyosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis. These can be ruled out by a gynaecologist.

If you feel you are unable to manage your period pain, are worried it may be a sign of something more serious, or you are simply looking for a female gynaecologist in London – contact Tania Adib today.