Why it hurts most now
Period pain comes from the womb contracting; it squeezes to shed its lining and push it out. The pain usually lasts up to 3 days, and for most people the first days are the worst.
What helps
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1
Warmth. A hot water bottle or heat pad on your tummy, or a long warm shower. It's the simplest thing you can do right now.
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2
Gentle movement. Walking, easy stretching, cycling or swimming — whichever suits you. Even a ten-minute walk helps.
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3
Massage. Gently massaging your tummy and back is on the NHS's own list for this pain.
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4
Painkillers. Over-the-counter painkillers usually work for this kind of pain. It's worth asking a pharmacist which one and how much, especially if your stomach is sensitive or you take other medicines.
When not to wait
If your pain is severe or worse than usual and painkillers haven't helped, the NHS says to be seen the same day — don't wait for next week's appointment.
And book an appointment if it's like this every month, or if:
- your periods are becoming more painful, heavier or more irregular
- the pain stops you doing your usual daily activities
- you bleed between periods
- sex is painful, if you have sex
- it hurts when you pee or poo
These can point to something like endometriosis, which can be treated. And if you're told “that's normal” when you know it isn't, you're allowed to ask again.
Sources
Health information, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For your own symptoms, talk to a doctor.
Your cycle, honestly.
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