How to stop stomach pain during periods

Cramping commonly comes from the womb tightening during menstruation. Pain may spread into the lower back or thighs and can come with nausea, loose stools, tiredness, or a headache. A different abdominal problem can feel similar, especially when pain is high in the abdomen or comes with fever, repeated vomiting, or bowel changes.

Place a covered hot-water bottle or heat pad on the lower abdomen for short periods. A warm bath, light walking, stretching, and slow breathing may relax tense muscles. Drink fluids and choose small, easy meals if nausea is present. An anti-inflammatory pain reliever may help some people; follow the packet directions and ask a pharmacist first if you have stomach ulcers, kidney disease, asthma triggered by pain medicines, take blood thinners, or could be pregnant. Do not combine products containing the same ingredient.

Arrange medical advice if pain is new, severe, worsening, disrupts normal activities, occurs between periods, or is not improving with usual measures. Seek urgent help for sudden intense pain, fainting, a rigid abdomen, heavy bleeding, fever, persistent vomiting, or possible pregnancy. Abdominal conditions such as gastritis, gallstones, or gastroenteritis can also cause pain and need different treatment.

Ask what may be causing the pattern, which pain medicine suits your health history, and whether an examination or testing is needed. Mention the timing, exact location, severity, bleeding pattern, bowel symptoms, medicines, and any chance of pregnancy.