Period Pain Isn’t Normal—It’s Just Common
Why Period Pain Is Often Ignored (And What You Can Do About It)
Page 1: Why We’ve Normalised Period Pain
For decades, menstrual pain has been brushed off as “just part of being a woman.” The discomfort, mood swings, fatigue, and cramps are treated as an unavoidable monthly tax on femininity. But here’s the truth—period pain isn’t normal, it’s just common. And there’s a huge difference between the two.
Society’s casual acceptance of menstrual pain has created a culture of silence. From advertisements showing women in white jeans doing yoga to doctors dismissing severe cramps as “stress,” this normalization has caused countless women to endure pain that deserves attention and treatment.
According to health experts, over 80% of menstruating women experience some form of pain during their cycles. Yet only a small percentage seek medical advice. Why? Because we’ve been conditioned to believe it’s normal.
But when pain stops you from functioning—when it affects your work, sleep, or daily life—it’s not something to tolerate. It’s a sign that your body is trying to tell you something important.
Page 2: What Period Pain Actually Means
Menstrual pain, medically known as dysmenorrhea, occurs when the uterus contracts to shed its lining. These contractions are triggered by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Higher levels of prostaglandins can lead to more severe cramps.
There are two types of dysmenorrhea:
- Primary Dysmenorrhea: Common menstrual cramps without an underlying medical issue, often starting in adolescence.
- Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Caused by reproductive disorders such as endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
If your period pain worsens over time, lasts longer than two days, or is accompanied by symptoms like nausea, heavy bleeding, or pain during intercourse—it’s time to see a gynaecologist.
Ignoring these signs can delay diagnosis of conditions like endometriosis or PCOS, which can affect fertility and overall quality of life if left untreated.
Page 3: How to Manage and Reduce Period Pain
While medication can provide temporary relief, addressing the root cause is key. Here are some evidence-backed strategies:
- Track your cycle: Use apps or journals to identify recurring pain patterns. Tracking helps your doctor understand your hormonal rhythm.
- Adopt anti-inflammatory nutrition: Eat foods rich in omega-3s (salmon, flaxseeds), leafy greens, and turmeric. Reduce caffeine and processed sugar intake.
- Heat therapy: A hot water bag or warm bath can relax uterine muscles and improve blood flow.
- Exercise moderately: Light yoga, stretching, or walking boosts endorphins that naturally ease pain.
- Consult a specialist: Persistent or worsening cramps require medical evaluation. Don’t self-diagnose or ignore it.
Alternative approaches such as acupuncture, magnesium supplements, and herbal teas (like ginger or chamomile) have also shown promising results for some women.
Most importantly, communicate openly. Talk to your doctor, your friends, or your workplace if your pain is affecting your functioning. The more we normalise these conversations, the less women will have to suffer in silence.
Page 4: Reclaiming Your Menstrual Health
Reframing period pain starts with believing that your comfort matters. Pain is your body’s signal—not your punishment. If your cramps are unbearable, you’re not weak or dramatic; you’re human and deserving of care.
Normalising conversation around menstrual health dismantles stigma and encourages early diagnosis. Schools and workplaces must start incorporating menstrual health education and support, including period leave policies and wellness check-ups.
Your cycle is a reflection of your hormonal ecosystem. When you start listening to it instead of fighting it, you’ll find ways to live more in sync with your body’s rhythm instead of resenting it.
Because every woman deserves to experience her body without unnecessary pain.
Read more on related topics within Ichhori for a deeper understanding of your reproductive health and hormonal balance.