When period pain isn’t ‘normal’
Your period shouldn’t keep you from living your life — but for many young people, it does. Maybe you’ve missed class because of cramps, bled through your clothes, or gone months without a cycle at all. You might wonder, “Is this normal?”
Periods aren’t comfy, but you don't have to power through either. If you’ve grown up hearing “that’s just how our family’s periods are,” it can be easy to brush things off. But pain or super heavy bleeding isn’t something you just have to power through. Getting checked out can help you feel better now — and protect your health later.
“People suffer in silence with this, but whether it’s an anatomic issue or a hormone issue, we can figure it out,” said Laura France, MD, vice president of the women’s and children’s service line with M Health Fairview.
When your period isn't playing by the rules
It can take a year or two for periods become regular after they first start, but there are certain signs that should be checked by a provider. Here are a few things to mention at your next check-up:
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Periods that come less than 21 days apart or go missing for more than 3 months after cycles have started.
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Heavy bleeding, such as soaking through pads/tampons every 1-2 hours, passing large clots, or bleeding longer than seven days.
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Severe cramps or pelvic pain that interferes with school, sports, or daily life.
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Symptoms of low iron (anemia), such as fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
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Excessive hair growth, severe acne, or rapid weight changes.
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Bleeding between periods or after physical activity.
Finding out what’s really going on
The first step in getting relief is talking to your healthcare provider about what’s going on. Don’t worry, you don’t need a medical degree. Your provider speaks like a human.
Dr. France recommends tracking what’s normal for you, so you can tell your provider. It helps them to hear about:
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Pain: How many days before your period does it usually start? What are you doing when you feel it? Is it keeping you from going to school, playing sports, or doing your usual activities?
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How often you get your period and how many days you bleed. If you recently noticed a change, like you’re suddenly bleeding 7 days instead of 4, mention that, too.
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How often you’re changing your tampon, pad, or cup.
For young people, most abnormal periods are caused by hormonal issues that might be easily treated with birth control or medication for thyroid issues.
To help pinpoint the cause, healthcare providers often rely on you to describe your symptoms, then they use blood tests or ultrasounds, to make an informed diagnosis.
Period conditions to know about
Conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are rare for people in their teens or early twenties, but it's good to know about them.
PCOSis a hormonal issue that occurs when your body is trying to release an egg but can’t. It might cause periods to get heavier. PCOS is diagnosed with hormone testing and an ultrasound.
“PCOS does increase your risk for type 2 diabetes,” France said. “So, you definitely want to know what’s going on to reduce your future risk.”
Endometriosis occurs when the blood doesn’t completely exit your body through the vagina. Instead, it flows backward through the fallopian tubes. Over time, tissue builds up outside of the uterus. Even though it’s out of place, it still behaves like uterine tissue, meaning it might still feel crampy a few days before your period. With endometriosis, you might have heavy bleeding and feel pain during bowel movements.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns. They can talk through your options with you.
Expert care is available throughout the Twin Cities area
M Health Fairview has a first-class team of doctors, certified nurse midwives and advanced practice nurses who are experts in women's health. We offer services in pregnancy and childbirth, gynecology and breast care, and hormonal and developmental issues. Learn more or schedule an appointment.
