Comprehensive care and treatment for Period Pain to help restore menstrual health with our Spital Clinic Women's Health Specialist GPs.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Dysmenorrhoea refers to painful menstrual cramps occurring before or during menstruation. It is categorised into two types: primary and secondary. Primary period pain is common and not linked to any underlying health condition, while secondary dysmenorrhoea results from disorders such as endometriosis or fibroids. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, fatigue, and mood changes. Effective management requires understanding the type of dysmenorrhoea and its underlying cause, allowing for appropriate treatment and relief.
There are two types of period pain: primary dysmenorrhoea and secondary dysmenorrhoea. Period pain should not be severe. Consult your doctor if it affects daily life, such as school or work.
Primary dysmenorrhoea is period pain without an underlying health condition. The pain usually starts with your period or slightly earlier. This type of dysmenorrhoea includes crampy or achy abdominal pain. You might also feel it in your lower back or upper legs. Other symptoms can include:
You can treat milder period pain and help alleviate with:
Consult your pharmacist for pain relief advice. For severe pain, your doctor can prescribe stronger medications.
Secondary dysmenorrhoea is period pain caused by a health condition. Some women might experience more painful periods after years of normal pain. If severe period pain disrupts daily activities, consult your doctor. It's essential to get checked if you're concerned. Symptoms of secondary dysmenorrhoea include:
Additional symptoms can include:
If you have any of these symptoms, speak to your doctor or book an appointment at Spital.
Your doctor might perform an internal examination to check your womb and pelvis. A chaperone will be present during this intimate examination. You can request a female doctor or health professional. Your doctor will look for possible causes of your painful periods. They might take samples (swabs) to check for infections. If secondary dysmenorrhoea is suspected, you may be referred to a gynaecologist for further investigation.
Period pain can sometimes be caused by intrauterine devices (IUDs), especially in the first few months after insertion. Your period might become more irregular, last longer, or cause spotting between periods. You might also experience pain during sex or vaginal discharge. If these symptoms occur after IUD insertion, along with period pain, consult your doctor immediately. For personalised advice and treatment, visit Spital Clinic or consult your healthcare provider.
Treatment for Secondary Dysmenorrhoea depends on the cause. Your doctor will advise the best course of treatment for your symptoms and condition. Feel free to ask questions about your care. Keep a record of period dates and symptoms using a calendar, diary, or app. This helps your doctor decide on necessary tests or treatments. When visiting your doctor, consider these details:
We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.
You have a question about Dysmenorrhoea? We have an answer.
Primary dysmenorrhoea is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins in the uterus. These chemicals make the uterus contract, causing pain. Secondary dysmenorrhoea often results from underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. Other potential causes include pelvic inflammatory disease or adenomyosis. Your GP can help identify the specific cause of your dysmenorrhoea. They might ask about your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination. In some cases, they may recommend further tests like ultrasounds or laparoscopy. Identifying the cause is crucial for effective treatment. Your GP can develop a tailored management plan based on the underlying cause.
Dysmenorrhoea is extremely common, affecting up to 90% of menstruating women. It's one of the most frequently reported menstrual disorders. Severe dysmenorrhoea affects about 10-20% of women, significantly impacting their quality of life. The condition is more common in younger women and tends to improve with age. Your GP can provide more information about dysmenorrhoea prevalence in different age groups. They can help you understand how your experience compares to others. Remember, even though it's common, severe pain shouldn't be considered normal. Your GP can offer treatment options to manage your symptoms effectively.
Diagnosing dysmenorrhoea involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your GP will ask about your symptoms, their timing, and their impact on your life. They may perform a pelvic examination to check for abnormalities. In some cases, they might recommend further tests like ultrasound or laparoscopy. These tests can help identify underlying conditions causing secondary dysmenorrhoea. Your GP might also ask you to keep a pain diary. This can help track symptom patterns and severity. Remember, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Be open and honest with your GP about your symptoms and concerns.
Certain lifestyle changes can indeed help manage dysmenorrhoea symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce pain intensity and duration. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may also provide benefits. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake might alleviate symptoms for some women. Stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation can help manage pain perception. Your GP can provide personalised advice on beneficial lifestyle changes. They might recommend specific exercises or dietary modifications based on your needs. Remember, lifestyle changes often work best when combined with other treatments. Your GP can help you develop a comprehensive management plan.
You should consult your GP if menstrual pain significantly impacts your daily life. Seek medical advice if over-the-counter painkillers don't provide relief. It's important to see a GP if your symptoms worsen or change over time. Sudden severe pain, especially if accompanied by fever, requires immediate medical attention. Your GP can assess your symptoms and rule out serious underlying conditions. They can provide appropriate treatment and monitor your progress over time. Remember, severe menstrual pain isn't normal and shouldn't be ignored. Your GP is there to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
Primary dysmenorrhoea typically doesn't affect fertility. However, some conditions causing secondary dysmenorrhoea, like endometriosis, may impact fertility. If you're concerned about fertility, it's important to discuss this with your GP. They can assess your individual situation and provide appropriate advice. In some cases, they might refer you to a fertility specialist for further evaluation. Remember, many women with dysmenorrhoea conceive without issues. Your GP can help address any concerns and provide guidance on fertility matters.
According to verified reviews from platforms such as Doctify, TrustPilot and Google - 99% patients have a positive experience at Spital Clinic.
"Great experience. Frustratingly we had 3 NIPTs come back with no result so had to do 3 blood redraws but thanks to LPC’s persistence we finally got a result on the 4th draw. After the 3rd no result they also kindly offered us a free anomaly scan."
"I had a surprisingly positive experience. The most friendly and helpful staff, clean and beautiful premises. The visit was smooth and quick but never felt rushed and I was able to ask all the questions I had. Thanks so much!"
"The service was exceptional from the moment we booked to the moment we left the building post our appointment. The lovely colleagues at the main desk were great and approachable. They made the whole process very comforting."
"I really recommend this clinic, everything was smooth and perfect. All staff are helpful and our sonographer Miss Shaz is an expert on her job, she is very kind and explained everything that we asked. I am glad to choose LPC."
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.
