When to arrange a review
Seek assessment if pain is becoming worse, disrupts work or school, or comes with heavy bleeding, pain during sex or bowel and urinary symptoms.
Looking for an underlying cause
Some period pain occurs without an underlying pelvic condition. Other causes include endometriosis, adenomyosis and fibroids. Your history and examination guide whether ultrasound or further tests are needed.
Managing symptoms
Heat and suitable pain relief may help. Hormonal treatments or treatment directed at an underlying condition may be discussed. Surgery is not necessary for every patient with painful periods.
Further patient information: Patient guide ↗
Seek urgent medical attention for sudden severe pelvic pain, fainting or heavy bleeding with weakness. Do not wait for a routine appointment.