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Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea): Causes, Checkups and Relief
Quick answer: Period pain (dysmenorrhea) is cramping in the lower abdomen before or during a period. It is common, but pain that disrupts daily life or gets worse over time should be checked. At Eunice Women's Clinic near Seongsu Station, Dr. Eun Mi-na, an English-speaking female OB-GYN, looks for causes such as endometriosis or fibroids with ultrasound and discusses treatment.
What is period pain?
Period pain, or dysmenorrhea, is cramping pain in the lower abdomen that usually starts shortly before or at the start of a period and lasts 1 to 3 days. It can spread to the lower back and thighs.
- Primary dysmenorrhea is period pain without an underlying disease. It usually starts within a few years of the first period.
- Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain caused by a condition such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or fibroids. It often starts later in life or gets worse over time.
What are the symptoms?
- Cramping or aching pain in the lower abdomen
- Pain in the lower back or thighs
- Nausea, vomiting, or loose stools
- Headache, dizziness, or tiredness
What causes period pain?
During a period, the uterine lining releases substances called prostaglandins. These make the uterine muscle contract to shed the lining, which causes cramps. Higher prostaglandin levels are linked with more pain. Conditions that can cause or worsen period pain include:
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- A copper IUD in some people
When should I see a doctor?
See a gynecologist if:
- Pain stops you from going to work or school
- Usual pain relievers do not help
- Pain is getting worse each year, or started after age 25
- You also have heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, pain during sex, or unusual discharge
- You have pelvic pain on days when you do not have your period
Seek emergency care (call 119) if you have:
- Sudden, severe pain that is very different from your usual period pain
- Pain with high fever, fainting, or vomiting that does not stop
- Severe pain with a positive or possible pregnancy, which can be an ectopic pregnancy
How is period pain evaluated at the clinic?
Dr. Eun will ask when the pain started, how it changes over the cycle, and what helps. A transvaginal ultrasound or a pelvic ultrasound through the abdomen can check the uterus and ovaries for fibroids, adenomyosis, or endometriomas. Tests for infection may be done if there are signs of infection. A pregnancy test may be done if pregnancy is possible.
What are the treatment options for period pain?
- NSAIDs: anti-inflammatory pain relievers reduce prostaglandins and are the standard first-line medicine. They are most effective when started at the first sign of pain or bleeding.
- Heat and activity: a heat pack on the lower abdomen and regular exercise can reduce cramps.
- Hormonal treatment: combined birth control pills, a hormonal IUD, or other hormonal methods can make periods lighter and less painful.
- Treating the cause: if a condition such as endometriosis or fibroids is found, treatment is aimed at that condition. Surgery, if needed, is done at a hospital by referral.
Individual results vary.
Getting care in English near Seongsu Station
Eunice Women's Clinic is on the 8th floor of Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. The building is across the crosswalk from Seoul Subway Line 2 Seongsu Station Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk ( directions). Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, holds consultations about period pain in English.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Mon, Wed, Fri | 10:00–19:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30) |
| Tue, Thu | 10:00–20:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30) |
| Sat | 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break) |
| Sun and public holidays | Closed |
Booking is recommended. You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search "유니스산부인과"), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100 ( how to book). Call or message to check same-day availability.
Book an appointment in English
Eunice Women's Clinic · 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul · Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3
Phone: +82-2-467-3100 · KakaoTalk channel · Naver Booking
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Thu 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–14:00 · Lunch 13:30–14:30 · Closed Sundays & public holidays
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to have very painful periods?
Mild cramps are common, but pain that stops you from working, studying, or doing daily activities is not something you must accept. It can have a treatable cause such as endometriosis or adenomyosis, and effective treatments are available.
How should I take pain relievers for cramps?
NSAIDs are usually most effective when started at the first sign of your period or pain, rather than waiting until pain is severe. Follow the package instructions or your doctor's advice, and ask a doctor if you have stomach, kidney, or bleeding problems.
Can birth control pills help period pain?
Yes. Combined birth control pills reduce the thickness of the uterine lining and prostaglandin levels, which often reduces period pain. They are not suitable for everyone, so the doctor will review your health history first.
Why is my period pain getting worse?
Period pain that becomes worse over time, or that starts in your mid-20s or later, may be caused by a condition such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or fibroids. An ultrasound and exam can help find the cause.
Can I see a doctor during my period?
Yes. For a pain evaluation, an ultrasound can be done during your period. For some tests, such as a Pap smear, the clinic may suggest another day. Mention your period when booking.
Related pages
This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.