If you've ever curled up with a hot water bottle, counting the hours until the cramps pass, you're not alone. Up to 89% of women experience period pain at some point, but just because it's common doesn't mean it's normal. And it certainly doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it in silence.
For some, cramps are a passing discomfort. For others, they're a monthly disruption that can include nausea, mood swings, digestive issues, or even fainting spells. And if you've ever been told to "just take a painkiller," you already know how dismissive that can feel.
So let’s get clear: period pain is real, it’s complex, and it deserves better attention. In this article, we’ll explore three major root causes of menstrual cramps—and what you can do to start feeling better.
1. Your Hormones May Be Out of Sync
Hormones are your body's messengers, and when they’re out of balance, they can stir up a storm—especially around your cycle.
Low Progesterone
Progesterone is like the calming big sister of estrogen. It reduces inflammation, supports sleep, eases anxiety, and—importantly—regulates the chemicals (like prostaglandins) that trigger cramping. But here’s the catch: your body only makes progesterone after ovulation. If you’re not ovulating regularly, or your levels are too low, your cramps may feel like a monthly ambush.
How to know if low progesterone could be part of the problem?
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Heavy or painful periods
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Spotting between cycles
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Irritability or poor sleep before your period
Low progesterone is especially common in PCOS, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and perimenopause. The good news? It's possible to test and support progesterone naturally with the right lifestyle and nutritional guidance.
High or Unopposed Estrogen
When estrogen isn’t balanced by progesterone, it can ramp up cramping by thickening the uterine lining and increasing prostaglandins and histamine. That means more pain, more bloating, and more discomfort.
Signs of high or unopposed estrogen:
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PMS and mood swings
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Breast tenderness
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Weight fluctuations
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Heavy, painful periods
If this sounds familiar, it might be time to explore how your body is processing and eliminating estrogen—especially via the liver and gut.
2. Histamine Might Be Making It Worse
Histamine isn’t just about seasonal allergies. It’s a chemical your body produces that can affect your period, too. High histamine levels are linked to more intense cramps, heavier bleeding, and even mood symptoms.
Clues that histamine is playing a role:
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Itchy skin or eyes
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Nausea before your period
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Food sensitivities
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Anxiety or irritability around your cycle
Histamine levels can rise due to genetics, poor detoxification, or high estrogen. But once you know what’s going on, there are clear, natural steps you can take to support balance.
3. The Prostaglandin Puzzle
Prostaglandins are the chemicals most directly linked to cramping. They're like tiny messengers that tell your uterus to contract. You do need them—but not in overdrive.
When prostaglandins are too high, they can cause painful uterine contractions and even affect your digestion (hello, period poops!).
Signs prostaglandins are out of control:
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Cramping that starts strong and early
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Loose stool before or during your period
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Other inflammation symptoms
Supporting inflammation and hormone balance holistically can help bring these levels back into a healthy range.
You Deserve to Feel Better
The takeaway? Cramps aren’t just "part of being a woman." They’re signals—your body’s way of asking for help. Whether it’s low progesterone, high estrogen, excess histamine, or prostaglandin overload, understanding your personal hormone picture can be life-changing.
That’s why comprehensive hormone testing—paired with a personalised plan—can be such a powerful tool. It’s not about silencing symptoms; it’s about listening to them.
Because every woman deserves a cycle she can live with—not one she has to brace for.