Ouch! – The (ab)normal truth about menstrual pain

It's 2025! Why has menstrual pain remained a routine part of our lives?

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We’ve all been there. You’re ready to conquer the day, and suddenly you start feeling unmistakable cramping pain. Period pain is an unwelcome guest that shows up anyway, leaving you to wonder if your body has a personal vendetta against you. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. While painful periods are common, they should not be ignored.

So what is period pain really, and how can we take control of our cycles instead of letting them control us?

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The monthly battle: understanding menstrual pain

Menstrual pain is the cramping pain felt in the lower abdomen just before or during menstrual periods. The pain intensity can range from slight discomfort to debilitating pain that interferes with everyday activities for a few days in a month. Additionally, nausea, headaches and dizziness can leave us feeling sapped of energy during this time. Scientifically, hormone-like substances such as prostaglandins, which are involved in inflammation and pain, trigger the contraction of uterine muscles. The higher the level of prostaglandins, the worse and more painful the cramps.

The monthly reset and beyond

Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining, triggered by a drop in levels of hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen. Phases in the cycle where certain hormone levels change dictate how your reproductive system responds.

At the start of the cycle, the endometrial lining of the uterus thickens due to increased levels of oestrogen, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels rise. In the next phase, ovulation, the ovary releases an egg. By the luteal phase, the egg has travelled to the uterus and progesterone levels rise, thickening the uterine lining in preparation for potential fertilisation of the egg. If the egg does not attach to the uterine wall and pregnancy does not occur, the thick uterine lining breaks down and is expelled in the form of menses.

The menstrual survival kit

When cramps strike, small changes in your daily routine can make a great difference. Providing heat relief is a classic remedy to soothe tense muscles and alleviate discomfort. This can be in the form of hot water bottles, discreet stick-on heat patches or microwavable heat pads.

For women looking for a natural, toxin-free remedy, Amiya Naturals Period Pacifier drops offer a 30-minute relief remedy from period pain, bloating and discomfort. Utilising bio-neuromodulator technology, the penetrative effects of active ingredients are amplified, making this dual-action advanced oral drops product a must-try.

Gentle movement by doing yoga or light stretching can also help with better blood circulation. Prioritising nutrition during your periods is important, and consuming food products rich in antioxidants, protein, iron, and fibre aids in maintaining oestrogen levels and minimises additional bloating.

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If the period pain becomes too much to handle, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and naproxen are usually recommended. From a scientific perspective, these non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are particularly effective as they reduce the production of prostaglandins, which trigger uterine contractions, thereby also reducing inflammation and pain.

When to seek medical help

In some cases, severe menstrual pain can be indicative of an underlying medical condition such as Endometriosis or Polycystic Ovary syndrome (PCOS), and it’s important to consult a doctor.

Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to the uterine lining start growing outside the uterus, such as the ovaries. This can be caused due to hormonal or genetic factors.

PCOS is a set of symptoms caused by a hormonal imbalance. If you experience irregular periods, acne and/or weight gain, these are common symptoms of this condition, and it likely indicates the presence of cysts on the ovaries.

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Signs your body might give you, like bleeding in between periods, or a sudden increase or reduction in blood flow, should not be ignored. Such conditions can lead to fertility problems in the future if left unchecked, aside from living with debilitating pain. For such conditions, medications and lifestyle changes prescribed and suggested by doctors can help manage symptoms and allow you to live your best life.

From pain to power

Some studies have shown that 1 in 10 women suffer from period pain so severe, they are unable to go about their regular routines, which means menstrual pain is more often than not normalised across the world. However, our period pain should not define us, nor dictate our lives.

With the right mix of self-care, supportive products and medical guidance when required, you can take back a sense of control and comfort. Every small step, whether it is rolling out a yoga mat, brewing a cup of herbal tea, or finally booking that doctor’s appointment, is an act of listening to and caring for your body.

So, the next time period cramps come knocking, remember, you are not powerless; you’re prepared.