Pregnancy |
Where a female egg is fertilised by a male sperm to create a baby. |
You may experience cramping early on in pregnancy. This may be where your uterus is growing or stretching. In early pregnancy, some women describe the feeling as if they were about to start their period. |
Fibroids |
A non cancerous lump in the womb. These can be large or small and there could be one or multiple fibroids. |
Fibroids can cause pelvic pain and heavy periods. Your doctor may be able to feel a large fibroid on examination. |
Thyroid problems |
The thyroid is a gland found in the neck. It produces hormones which help to regulate the body’s metabolism. |
An underactive thyroid can cause changes to your periods. |
Stress |
Stress is your body’s response to any form of demand or threat. |
Stress can have a really powerful effect on the body including disrupting your menstrual cycle. Stress and anxiety can also increase the pain you may experience during your period. |
Hormonal contraception |
The Intrauterine System (IUS) is a form of hormonal contraception which is inserted inside the body to prevent pregnancy. The non hormonal version is called an IUD. |
Some of the side effects of the IUS and IUD include:
However an IUS can also be used to treat painful periods. |
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) |
PCOS is a common condition which affects the way the ovaries work. |
PCOS can cause excessively painful periods. |
Ovarian cysts |
An ovarian cyst is a sac usually filled with fluid found on the ovary. Most of these are harmless but if they grow large they can burst. |
If the cyst ruptures you may feel sudden, sharp cramps on either side of your abdomen. |
Endometriosis |
The cells that make up the lining of the womb can also attach themselves to other parts of your body, commonly in your pelvis or abdomen. |
Can cause symptoms like heavier, more painful periods. |
Pelvic inflammatory disease |
Infection of the female upper genital tract such as the womb, fallopian tubes and the ovaries. |
Symptoms can include:
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Miscarriage |
Loss of pregnancy during the first 23 weeks. |
Symptoms include:
- Cramping in your lower tummy
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