Dr Amir Khan has highlighted the importance of not dismissing painful periods as ‘normal’, stressing that while periods are a natural occurrence, but enduring pain during them is not. He emphasised, “periods are normal, but painful periods are not normal – even if you’ve had painful periods all your life and you think it’s normal for you”.
The GP encouraged those affected to seek help, stating: “You don’t have to tolerate it”. His comments have sparked conversations among many who feel their concerns have been previously ignored by healthcare professionals, with some expressing they wish Dr Amir were their own doctor.
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Dr Amir advised individuals to “get it investigated, and get help,” and explained the physiological process behind period pain: “period pain happens when the womb or uterus squeezes to shed the inside lining that has built up during your menstrual cycle in preparation in case you get pregnant.”
He further detailed: “If you don’t get pregnant, you don’t need that thickened lining, and it needs to shed out of your body as a period. Now, chemicals called prostaglandins are what makes your uterus contract and squeeze, and shed that lining.”
Dr Amir also noted: “It’s thought the higher the levels of prostaglandins, the more painful your period is likely to be, and as that uterus squeezes to shed that lining, the blood flow to part of the womb is also pressed upon and compromised, adding to the pain.”
The expert outlined several potential causes for painful periods, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and a narrow cervix or “structural problems with the womb and reproductive system”. He noted that each condition requires “its own management plan,” which could involve “painkillers, hormonal treatment, or surgery”.
“For some people, using hot water bottles, avoiding caffeine, stopping smoking, and relaxation techniques can help – but I would say, if you’re struggling with painful periods, don’t put up with it,” he advised.
In response to his advice, one person commented: “The problem is getting doctors to listen to us. Many just say it’s your normal”.
Echoing the sentiment, another added: “This! I’ve been having painful periods for 31 years! Doctors don’t do anything”.
The NHS website suggests seeing a GP if:
- your periods become more painful, heavier or irregular
- you have pain during sex or when peeing or pooing
- you’re bleeding between periods