Period cramps are a normal part of the menstrual cycle for many women. These cramps occur when the uterus contracts to shed its lining, causing pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen. While some level of discomfort is to be expected during menstruation, severe or debilitating pain is not normal. If the pain is so intense that it interferes with daily activities or requires over-the-counter pain medication, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition (such as endometriosis or fibroids).

If you are struggling with painful periods read on to learn more, you are in the right place! (but don’t worry, just by the fact that you’re investigating on this you’re on the right path)

The Nature Says

Cramps are caused by the contraction of the uterine muscles during menstruation. Prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances produced in the uterus, play a significant role in triggering these contractions. When the levels of prostaglandins are high, they can cause increased uterine muscle contractions, leading to more severe cramping during your period. During the start of their period, the majority of women have severe cramps that last one to two days.

Warning Signs Your Period Pain Could Be Abnormal

Here are some warning indications that your period discomfort is abnormal:

• Severe Pain Interrupts Your Normal Life: if you frequently have to stay home from work because of extreme pain, this could be a sign . While it is not uncommon to suffer pain so severe that you must call in sick from work, if you are constantly experiencing this level of pain, you may have a more serious underlying disease.
• Pain medications are ineffective: pain treatments medications, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are usually beneficial in relieving most women's period cramps. However, if NSAIDs fail to relieve your discomfort, it could be a symptom that you are suffering from unconventional period pain.
• Random Pelvic Pain during or after sex: pelvic discomfort during sex is not natural and the same causes that lead to sex pain can also cause severe period pain.
• Other Random Pelvic Pain: if you have pelvic pain even when you are not ovulating or are not close to your period, this could be a problem.
• Period Cramps that last more than two or three days: period pain that lasts the full length of your cycle is abnormal. It also shouldn't begin too long before your period, as period cramps usually begin 1 to 3 days before or on the first day of your period.
• Periods including nausea, bowel or urinary problems: It is usual to have diarrhea or upset stomach during your period since the uterus produces a hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Severe diarrhea, painful bowel movements, vomiting, nausea, or urinary issues, as well as irregular period discomfort, may require a doctor's visit.
• Periods with severe bleeding that last more than seven days: if your painful periods are accompanied by severe bleeding to the point that you must change your pad every 2 hours, or if your period lasts more than 7 days, this may indicate a more serious medical condition. Excessive bleeding may potentially cause iron deficiency or anemia. With anemia, the heart has to work harder to transport oxygen to the rest of the body, which can be harmful to the heart and produce symptoms such as excessive fatigue, palpitations, and fainting.
• Unusual discharge or spotting between periods: Vaginal bleeding or discharge in between periods may suggest a more serious medical condition, particularly if it is accompanied by atypical period pain. This could be indicative of pelvic inflammatory diseases, endometriosis, hormonal abnormalities, cervical cysts, benign uterine cysts, or even cervical malignancy.

Common Conditions Related to Severe Pain During Your Period

Painful periods, also known as dysmenorrhea, can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions.

• One common culprit is endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, leading to inflammation and pain.
• Fibroids, noncancerous growths in the uterus, can also cause painful periods by putting pressure on surrounding organs.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease, a bacterial infection of the reproductive organs, can lead to severe menstrual cramps. 
• There are many other varieties of conditions such as adenomyosis, endometriosis and hormonal imbalances that can all contribute to the discomfort experienced during menstruation.

How To Stop Period Pain (Or Manage It)

There are several effective methods to manage period pain at home.

• A commonly used method is to apply heat to the lower abdomen. This can help to relax the muscles and relieve cramps. In addition, it is one of the most suggested methods because it is a drug-free, non-invasive and effective method to manage period cramps (it is also known to be one of the ancient methods). A hot water bottle, a relaxing bath or a more durable heat treatment like this can definitely get you out of the discomfort.
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Engaging in gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga, can increase blood flow and reduce discomfort. You can add relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. This can help to calm the body and ease tension.
• It's also important to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet, as certain foods and dehydration can exacerbate menstrual pain.

By incorporating these methods into your routine, you can effectively manage period pain and improve your overall well-being.

Remember that knowing how to manage symptoms is a good thing, but for people suffering from extreme pain during periods, consulting with a health care provider to determine the underlying cause and explore appropriate treatment options is always best.