Period Pain: Why It Happens and What Can Help

Period pain, also known as primary dysmenorrhoea, is extremely common and affects many people during their menstrual cycle. For some, it may feel like a mild ache that comes and goes. For others, it can involve stronger cramps that disrupt work, study, sleep, or everyday activities. Although period pain is common, understanding why it happens can help you manage it more effectively and know when to seek support.

What causes period pain?

During your menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus builds up in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining is shed as your period. To help this process, the uterus contracts. These contractions are triggered by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins.
Prostaglandins play an important role in the body, but higher levels are linked with stronger uterine contractions and increased pain sensitivity. In some cases, these contractions can also temporarily reduce blood flow to the uterus, contributing to the cramping sensation many people experience.

What does period pain feel like?

Period pain often starts just before or at the beginning of bleeding and may last one to three days. It can feel like:

Cramping or tightening in the lower abdomen
A dull, constant ache
Pain that spreads to the lower back or thighs

The intensity and duration can vary from cycle to cycle.

Common ways to manage period pain

Healthcare professionals in the UK typically recommend a combination of self-care measures and, where appropriate, pain relief.

Heat therapy

Applying heat to the lower abdomen using a hot water bottle or heating pad can help relax the muscles of the uterus and improve blood flow, which may reduce cramping.

Gentle movement

Light activities such as walking, stretching or yoga can feel counterintuitive when you are in pain, but gentle movement may help release endorphins — the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.

Rest and relaxation

Fatigue is common during a period. Allowing yourself time to rest, particularly during the first day or two, can help your body cope with discomfort.

Pain relief medicines

Over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen, is commonly used for period pain in the UK. Ibuprofen works by reducing prostaglandin production, which can help ease cramps. Feminax Express contains ibuprofen lysine, a form of ibuprofen that is absorbed quickly when taken as directed to target period pain fast.

When should you speak to a GP?

While mild to moderate period pain is common, you should seek medical advice if:

Pain is severe or worsening over time
Pain stops you from carrying out normal daily activities
Pain does not improve with standard pain relief
You experience other symptoms such as very heavy

bleeding or pain between periods
Your GP may want to rule out conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids and discuss other treatment options if needed.
Always read the label and follow the instructions. Feminax Express is suitable for women and girls aged 12 and over.

REFERENCES

National Health Service. (2022). Period pain (dysmenorrhoea). NHS.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2023). Dysmenorrhoea. NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries.