How can I stop my cramps?

Period cramps are caused by contractions of the womb as it sheds its lining. They may be felt in the lower abdomen, back, or thighs and often begin around the start of bleeding. When pain is new, increasingly intense, present outside periods, or linked with heavy bleeding, a condition such as Endometriosis, Adenomyosis, or Uterine Fibroids may be contributing. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can present with pelvic pain, particularly when there is fever, unusual discharge, or pain during sex.

Pain from an Ovarian Endometrioma can also be one reason symptoms are persistent or one-sided. The symptom itself does not identify the cause, so the pattern matters.

Place a heat pad or hot-water bottle over the lower abdomen, with a layer of clothing between the heat and your skin. Gentle walking, stretching, or a warm bath may relax tense muscles. If you can take them safely, use an anti-inflammatory painkiller according to its packet directions; ask a pharmacist first if you have stomach, kidney, bleeding, or asthma problems, or take other medicines.

Keep a record of pain severity, timing, bleeding, bowel or bladder symptoms, and what helps. A clinician can discuss hormonal options such as the Combined Pill or Hormonal Coil when cramps interfere with daily activities.

Book an appointment for cramps that repeatedly disrupt work, sleep, or movement, or that are becoming stronger despite self-care. Seek urgent help for sudden severe pain, faintness, fever, vomiting, heavy bleeding, or pain when pregnancy is possible.

Ask whether your pain pattern suggests an underlying condition, which pain relief is safe with your health history, and whether an examination or scan is appropriate.