MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhoea)
Period cramps are extremely common. Most are the normal kind that eases with simple measures, but severe or worsening pain can point to a treatable condition.
Causes & risk factors
- Normal cramping from the uterus contracting (primary dysmenorrhoea)
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (infection)
- Adenomyosis (lining growing into the uterine wall)
- An IUD, especially soon after insertion
Common symptoms
- Lower-abdomen and pelvic cramps
- Lower back pain
- Nausea
- Loose stools around periods
- Headache
- Tiredness
Tests & diagnosis
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- CRP (if infection suspected)
- Vaginal swab if infection suspected
Treatment & management
- Heat on the lower abdomen and gentle activity help
- Common anti-inflammatory painkillers ease cramps — ask your pharmacist or doctor
- Hormone pills can reduce painful periods
- Treat any underlying cause such as endometriosis or fibroids
- Regular exercise and stress reduction may lessen pain over time
When to see a doctor urgently
- Pain that stops you working or studying despite painkillers
- Pain that is getting worse cycle by cycle
- Pain with fever or abnormal discharge
- Pain with very heavy bleeding or pain outside your period
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about painful periods (dysmenorrhoea). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Are painful periods normal?
Mild-to-moderate cramps are normal. Pain that disrupts daily life, keeps worsening, or comes with fever or unusual discharge is not — get it checked.
Could severe period pain be endometriosis?
It can be. Endometriosis often causes progressively worse period pain, pain during sex and sometimes trouble conceiving. A gynaecologist can assess for it.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.