Overview
It often eases after menopause.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Heavy, painful periods
- Period cramps
Less common
- Pelvic pressure
- Pain with sex
Look up a symptom: Heavy periods · Pelvic or lower belly pain · Period cramps
When to get medical care
Call 911Heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting.
Get care todaySevere pain.
See a doctor soonPainful or heavy periods.
Causes
Unknown.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Past uterine surgery
- Childbirth
Possible complications
Diagnosis
A clinician examines.
The exam
Pelvic exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Ultrasound or MRI:
Treatment
Ease symptoms.
Self-care
- Heat for cramps
- Track periods
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
| Hormonal treatments | Heavy, painful periods |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Hormonal IUD or hysterectomy.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- After menopause: Usually eases.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Manageable.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.