Period pain is normalised as something women are simply expected to deal with. However, this is a problematic narrative, as it may lead women to tolerate severe discomfort every month without questioning whether it warrants medical attention.ALSO READ: Indian mothers nutritionally deficient? Gynaecologist shares 4 nutrient gaps behind fatigue, brain fog, sleep issues
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We asked gynaecologist Dr Siddesh Iyer at Saukhyam Hospital, Borivali East, Mumbai, to discuss why period pain occurs, when it may mean an underlying condition and how it can be managed.
The first doubt, which the gynaecologist addressed, was whether period pain is normal. He described that it is normal and common during menstruation to experience some form of discomfort. It typically feels like mild to moderate cramping. Duration-wise, he said that it begins at the start of a period and can last for about two to three days.
Dr Iyer then clinically described the biological process behind this monthly discomfort: “This pain occurs because the uterus becomes congested and has an increased blood supply. As the uterine lining sheds, it triggers spasms in the uterus. This process releases substances called prostaglandins, which are responsible for the pain. This condition is known as dysmenorrhea.”
The gynaecologist further classified dysmenorrhea into two types:
Not every period pain is a cause of worry. But Dr Iyer cautioned that if the pain is really intense, you should not ignore it. “If the pain is severe, interferes with daily activities, leads to missed school or work, and impacts quality of life, it may indicate an underlying issue and should not be ignored.”
Managing period pain involves a combination of lifestyle changes, self-care, and medical support when needed. Here are some of the tips from the expert:
Apart from cramps, the doctor said that some women may experience other physical and emotional symptoms around their periods. Dr Iyer outlined that these may be associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and include:
If these symptoms are severe or regularly interfere with your daily life, consult a doctor for appropriate management.
Dr Iyer mentioned a ruling that reinforced menstrual health is a matter of health, and it should be taken seriously: “In February 2026, the Supreme Court of India also recognised menstrual health as a fundamental right under Article 21, which includes the right to life and dignity. Pain should not be dismissed as something that is simply ‘normal.’”
The doctor cautioned that severe period pain could indicate an underlying condition such as endometriosis.
“There is a condition called endometriosis, where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often affecting the ovaries and surrounding organs. This can cause severe pain during periods and requires proper evaluation and management,” Dr Iyer said.
The doctor also mentioned other conditions such as uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and adenomyosis, which can also lead to painful periods and should be assessed by a health professional.
The parting advice from Dr Iyer is that period pain should not be something you silently endure. While mild discomfort can be common, severe pain is not something that should be normalised.
Dr Siddesh Iyer has over 18 years of experience. He has completed MBBS and DGO from the prestigious Grant Government Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals. Thereafter, he completed DNB in OBGY from Bhagwati Hospital, Mumbai, and has obtained the coveted MRCOG degree awarded by the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG), London. His areas of special interest are high-risk pregnancy, laparoscopy and vaginal surgeries.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
