Why do periods hurt? The cramp connection
Why do periods hurt? The cramp connection
A clear explanation of the chemicals, contractions and signals behind painful periods.
The chemical signal
As a period approaches, hormone changes trigger the womb lining to release prostaglandins. These chemicals make the womb muscle and its blood vessels contract. Strong contractions can temporarily reduce blood flow and oxygen to the muscle, contributing to pain.
Why your experience can be different
People do not all produce or respond to these signals in the same way. Pain intensity also varies between cycles. Comparing your cramps with a friend’s does not show whether you need help, and being in pain is not a personal failing.
Primary and secondary pain
Primary dysmenorrhoea means period pain without an identified underlying disease. Secondary dysmenorrhoea is pain linked to another cause, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis or fibroids. Pain that changes, persists outside your period or disrupts your life warrants an assessment.
What can help?
Warmth, manageable movement and suitable medicines are options to discuss. Anti-inflammatory medicines act on the prostaglandin pathway, but are not suitable for everyone: follow the packet and ask a pharmacist or clinician. TENS is another symptom-management option for some people, with individual results. The aim is a plan that supports your life and investigates symptoms when needed.
General education, not a diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional about severe, persistent or changing symptoms.
Sources & further reading
YOUR CYCLE. YOUR COMFORT.
A little more comfort.
A little more you.
Meet the Velnora Period Relief Device: adjustable pulses and soothing warmth, in a compact wireless design.
For symptom comfort, not treatment of an underlying condition. Results vary; follow the device instructions. Read our TENS guide.