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Period cramps (dysmenorrhea)

Also called: Period cramps, dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps, painful periods

Cramping pain in the lower belly before and during a period. Most cramps respond to NSAIDs and heat; very painful periods can be a sign of endometriosis or fibroids.

CommonMore than half of people with periods
Best medicineNSAIDs started early
Check ifPain stops daily life

Overview

Prostaglandins make the uterus squeeze, causing cramps, and can also cause nausea and diarrhea.

Cramps often ease with age and after childbirth.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Painful period cramps

Less common

  • Low back pain
  • Nausea
  • Loose stools
  • Headache

Look up a symptom: Nausea

When to get medical care

Call 911Severe pain with fever or fainting, or possible pregnancy with one-sided pain.
Get care todayCramps that NSAIDs don't help.
See a doctor soonPain that's getting worse or causes missed school or work.

Causes

Uterine contractions; sometimes endometriosis or fibroids.

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

  • Teens
  • Heavy periods

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your periods.

Questions you may be asked

  • How bad, how long
  • Heavy bleeding

The exam

Pelvic exam if severe.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound: If severe.

Treatment

Start treatment early.

Self-care

  • Take an NSAID at the first sign of your period
  • Use a heating pad
  • Exercise
  • Try a warm bath

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
NSAIDs
CrampsTake with food.
Hormonal birth control
Severe cramps

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Hormonal birth control often eases cramps a lot.

Prevention

To ease cramps:

  • Regular exercise

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Teens: Missing school for cramps is a reason to see a doctor.

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

Usually well controlled.

Myths and facts

Myth: Severe period pain is normal.

Fact: Pain that keeps you from school or work can be a sign of endometriosis. Get checked.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • Could this be endometriosis?

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.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Period cramps (dysmenorrhea)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.