Causes of period pain

Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhoea, are a common symptom associated with periods, and they're often nothing to worry about. However, sometimes painful periods can be a sign of something more serious.

Knowing the causes of period pain can help you to spot when it's time to get medical attention. Below, we explore the causes of dysmenorrheoa in terms of normal menstrual cramps and more severe pain relating to underlying conditions.

Causes of primary dysmenorrhoea

Most commonly, the causes of menstrual cramps are your hormones fluctuating as part of your cycle. The uterus contracts to force blood and tissue out, which causes those cramping pains in the early days of your period. Just as there is natural variation between individuals in terms of period length, flow and regularity, some people naturally experience more painful periods than others as a result of their hormone levels.

Although primary dysmenorrhoea is classed as an expected part of having your period, you can still access treatments for period pain if it's having an impact on your day-to-day life.

Causes of secondary dysmenorrhoea

Secondary dysmenorrhoea is when your period pains are caused or exacerbated by an underlying condition. It's typically characterised by more intense or painful menstrual cramps compared to primary dysmenorrhoea and has a range of causes. For example, secondary dysmenorrhoea may be caused by:

• Uterus tissue growing in other areas of your body (also known as endometriosis)
• Uterus lining tissue growing into the muscular wall of the uterus instead (referred to as adenomyosis)
• Having an intrauterine device (IUD) - particularly if it was fitted three to six months ago
• Non-cancerous growths called fibroids which are located on, in or around your uterus
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - a condition that can affect your reproductive hormones and menstrual cycle.

It's not recommended to try to guess which condition is causing your secondary dysmenorrhoea. The best thing to do is to speak to a GP or gynaecologist, who can examine you and run tests to find out what is causing your symptoms, and then recommend appropriate treatments.

Finding the cause of your period pain

If you're unsure whether or not your period pain warrants medical intervention, it can be helpful to familarise yourself with the symptoms of dysmenorrhoea and compare them to your own experiences. This can help you understand what is normal for you and whether there have been any changes. Sometimes it's helpful to get your concerns validated by learning that what you're experiencing is something to get checked. If your period pain is impacting your everyday life, that's a good enough reason to see a medical professional.

Whether you're worried about period pains or any other aspect of your menstrual cycle or reproductive health, it's important to seek advice from a pharmacist or GP, even if it's only for your peace of mind. If there are no underlying conditions exacerbating your period pains, you may still be recommended medications and/or techniques to help you manage your symptoms each month.