Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are a throbbing or cramping pain in the lower belly before or during a period. Period cramps are very common and usually ease within 2 to 3 days. Pain that keeps you from daily life is not something you just have to live with.

What Is It

Doctors call it dysmenorrhea. During a period, the uterus tightens to shed its lining, triggered by natural chemicals called prostaglandins. Higher levels cause stronger cramps. Cramps are often worst in the teen years. Conditions like endometriosis or fibroids can cause severe cramps that get worse over time.

Symptoms

Cramping or throbbing pain in the lower belly
Pain that spreads to the lower back or thighs
Nausea or loose stools
Headache
Dizziness
Pain that starts 1 to 3 days before the period

Not sure it’s period pain? Pelvic pain between periods, on one side, or with fever has other causes. Read more about pelvic pain.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider asks about your cycle and pain and may examine you. Treatment usually starts with the right pain relief and timing. New or different pain may need pregnancy and infection testing. Possible endometriosis or fibroids need a gynecologist.

At home:

Start an over the counter anti inflammatory pain reliever at the first sign of cramps, as directed
Use a heating pad on your lower belly
Take a warm bath
Stay active with walking or gentle stretching

Most cramps ease within 2 to 3 days.

When to Get Care for Menstrual Cramps

Watch at Home

Cramps eased by over the counter medicine and heat
Pain that lasts 1 to 3 days
Able to keep up with daily life

Come to Urgent Care Today

Cramps not helped by over the counter medicine
Pain that makes you miss school or work
Cramps that are getting worse each month
Very heavy bleeding, soaking a pad or tampon every hour
New severe cramps after age 25

Go to the Emergency Department

Sudden, severe pelvic pain, especially on one side
Pain with a positive pregnancy test
Fainting, or a racing heart with heavy bleeding
Pelvic pain with high fever

FAQ

What helps period cramps fast?

An anti inflammatory pain reliever started at the first sign of cramps, plus a heating pad, helps period cramps fastest. Follow the dose on the label.

How long do period cramps last?

Period cramps usually last 1 to 3 days, starting just before or at the start of the period.

When are period cramps too painful?

Period cramps are too painful when over the counter medicine does not help, you miss school or work, or the pain gets worse over time.

Can period cramps be a sign of something serious?

Severe or worsening period cramps can be a sign of endometriosis, fibroids, or infection. These should be checked by a provider.

Can urgent care help with menstrual cramps?

Yes, urgent care can help with severe menstrual cramps. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can check for other causes and discuss pain relief. No appointment or referral is needed.

Is it normal to throw up from period cramps?

Some women have nausea or vomiting with severe cramps. If it happens often, or you cannot keep fluids down, get checked.

Last reviewed October 2026