Everything you need to know about period pain
Approved by our medical experts
Getting your period can be a right pain in the tummy! It’s important to know why it happens, how it can be treated and, more importantly, if it’s a normal level of pain.
Some women, girls and people who have periods don’t get period pain at all. That’s totally normal, but most people do. It’s good to know what others go through so you can be there to support your besties who bleed if they need you.
So, get yourself comfy. We’re going to give you some ideas on how you can keep the cramps at bay.
Why do we have period pain?
When your period happens, the muscles in your uterus tighten. This helps the lining of the uterus leave your body. Unlike other muscles you have control over, the muscles in your uterus do this by themselves. For lots of people, these muscles working can be a bit uncomfortable.
It’s not just the muscles contracting that can cause pain though. There are a number of other things that happen in the process too. Time for more science stuff!
When the muscles in your uterus contract hormones are released. These hormones trigger pain and cause the muscles to contract even more. It’s hard to say why some people feel more pain than others during our periods. Sometimes it can be because your body has more hormones, which means the muscles tighten up more.
Where will I get period pain?
It’s not just a pain in your belly. Some people feel it in other areas too, like your lower back and thighs.
These cramps can vary on different people, and at different times. Sometimes you might get a dull ache, other times it might be a bit more intense. Often, the older you get the less you experience period pain.
How long will it last?
Everyone has period pain slightly differently, including how long you feel it for.
Cramps can start a couple of days before you get your period. They often last a few days once you’ve started to bleed. The pain normally eases as your period goes on, so a couple of days later you should feel much better.
What can I do to help?
There are lots of things you can do to help your period pain.
A great way to reduce pain is using heat. A hot water bottle or heat pad will be your new best friend. You can use it on your back, tummy or wherever you feel achy. The heat will help to soothe the muscles and reduce cramping.
Top tip: Make sure you use a cover for your hot water bottle or try wrapping it in a towel or blanket. This way it’s nice and cosy but doesn’t get too hot.
Another Bloody Brilliant favourite is a nice warm bath or shower. It works in the same way as the hot water bottle but on your whole body. Throw in some of your favourite bubbles, we love a good bath bomb! This will help you feel nice and relaxed too.
A surprising way of easing cramps is to do something active! That’s if you can manage it.
No, we aren’t joking… getting your body moving can really help to ease period pain. A yoga flow, nice long walk or even a gentle swim could work wonders. Take a look at our period products blog to find out what you can use when you get active!
Finally, painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol are good at reducing pain. But, you should always ask a parent or carer for advice before taking painkillers. They’ll tell you what medicine you can take, when to take it and how much.
For more ways to make yourself feel good while you’re on your period see the full list of tips.
What pain is normal?
Pain is one of the worst sides to your period. But you can help treat it with the techniques we spoke about above. Or, if they don’t work, your GP will be able to help.
It’s important that you know your body. Everyone is different when it comes to periods. And this is definitely the case when it comes to pain. But, if the pain stops you from doing the things you would usually do, like going to school or spending time with your mates, speak to someone about it.
It’s always safest to get these things checked out. Help is out there for you, there’s no need to suffer in silence.
So when the cramps are getting you down, grab that hot water bottle and give your body a break. Remember, there’s no shame in talking about how you’re feeling. There’s a lot going on down there. It’s doing a Bloody Brilliant job keeping you healthy.
