Skip to main contentSkip to main content

Period pain

Overview

Open all pages about Period pain

Period pain is pain in your tummy at the start of your period or several days before. It may feel like cramps, a sharp pain or a dull ache.

Things you can do to ease period pain include having a warm bath or shower, massaging your tummy and back, and doing some gentle exercise.

Period pain happens when your womb tightens during your period. Sometimes conditions like endometriosis or fibroids can cause painful periods.

Painkillers, a TENS machine and contraception can be used to treat period pain. If the pain is caused by a medical condition, treating it will help.

It's common to have pain or discomfort before or during your period. There are things you can do to help ease the pain.

Page last reviewed: 29/07/2022
Next review due: 29/07/2025