Period pain after menopause: what to know

After menopause, new lower-abdominal or pelvic pain may relate to vaginal or pelvic tissue changes, urinary or bowel problems, an ovarian or uterine condition, or pelvic organ prolapse. If bleeding has also returned, tell the clinician exactly when it happened. Pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis.

Describe its location, severity, pattern, and triggers. Mention bloating, changes in urine or bowel habits, discharge, fever, weight change, or pain during sex. A clinician may recommend an examination and targeted tests based on your symptoms.

Arrange a medical appointment rather than waiting for the pain to behave like a period. Record when it began, whether it is constant or comes in waves, and what makes it better or worse. Bring a list of medicines and any hormone treatment.

Use only pain relief that is suitable for you and follow the label or a clinician's advice. Do not use vaginal treatments for presumed dryness without checking the cause. Related symptoms can include [Vaginal Dryness](/symptoms/vaginal-dryness/) and [Periods Stopped](/symptoms/periods-stopped/).

Seek urgent help for sudden severe pain, faintness, a swollen or rigid abdomen, repeated vomiting, fever, or heavy vaginal bleeding. Prompt review is also needed for persistent pain, pain with unexplained bleeding, or a new pelvic pressure or bulge that may suggest [Pelvic Organ Prolapse](/conditions/pelvic-organ-prolapse/).

Ask: What causes should be considered at my age? Do my symptoms suggest a pelvic examination, scan, or urine test? Could tissue changes or prolapse contribute? Which pain medicines are safe with my health conditions?