Painful Periods: When Is Period Pain Not Normal?
Mild discomfort during a period can be normal. However, severe pain is not normal.
If your period causes intense cramps, nausea or missed work, it deserves investigation. At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we assess painful periods through targeted hormone and health blood testing.
What Are Painful Periods?
The medical term is dysmenorrhoea. It describes cramping pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation. There are two types:
Primary Dysmenorrhoea
This begins in teenage years. It is caused by prostaglandins triggering uterine contractions.
Secondary Dysmenorrhoea
This develops later in life. It may be linked to underlying conditions. If pain worsens over time, it should be assessed.
Why Are My Periods So Painful?
Several factors may contribute.
- Hormonal Imbalance
Oestrogen and progesterone must remain balanced. If oestrogen is dominant, the uterine lining thickens. This can increase prostaglandin release and cramping. Low progesterone may worsen pain.
- Inflammatory Conditions
Endometriosis may cause severe cramps and pelvic pain. Adenomyosis can also increase pain intensity. Blood tests cannot confirm these conditions. However, inflammatory markers may guide further investigation.
- Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid imbalance affects the menstrual cycle. It may increase cramping and fatigue. Simple blood testing can assess thyroid function.
- Iron Deficiency
Heavy bleeding can reduce iron stores. Low ferritin levels may worsen weakness and headaches.
- Fibroids or Structural Causes
Fibroids can increase pain and pressure. Imaging may be recommended if suspected.
When Is Period Pain a Red Flag?
Seek assessment if:
- Pain stops you working or studying
- You vomit or faint
- Pain radiates to your back or legs
- Pain worsens each month
- Pain begins suddenly in adulthood
Severe symptoms are not something you must tolerate.
What Blood Tests Help Investigate Painful Periods?
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we offer a structured Painful Period Blood Panel.
This may include:
Hormone Testing
- FSH
- LH
- Oestradiol
- Progesterone
- Prolactin
- Testosterone
- SHBG
Thyroid Function
- TSH
- Free T4
- Free T3
Iron & Anaemia
- Full Blood Count
- Ferritin
Inflammatory Markers
- CRP
- ESR
Results return within 24 – 42 hours depending on the test.
Can Painful Periods Affect Fertility?
Yes. Severe hormonal imbalance may disrupt ovulation. Inflammatory conditions may also affect reproductive health. If you are planning pregnancy, early assessment is sensible.
We also offer:
- Fertility Readiness Check
- AMH testing
- Female Health MOT
Can Lifestyle Help Reduce Period Pain?
Yes, in some cases.
- Regular exercise
- Magnesium support
- Vitamin D optimisation
- Stress reduction
- Balanced nutrition
However, lifestyle does not replace proper medical evaluation.
Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre?
- Results within 24–42 hours depending on the test
- On-site consultant review
- Private suites
- Discreet & confidential care
- CQC-accredited and aligned with Marylebone High Standard
- Optional teleconsultations for results
MDC uses QCMD quality assurance to ensure all test results meet the Marylebone High Standard.
Book a Painful Period Blood Test in London
If your period pain feels excessive or worsening, investigate it properly.
You do not need a GP referral.
📍 73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
📞 +44 7495 970109
🕘 Monday–Saturday, 8:00–16:00
🚇 5-minute walk from Baker Street tube
