Period cramps and what helps

During your period you may feel cramps low in your belly. Sometimes the pain spreads to your lower back or thighs. Lots of girls get this, and as a rule it isn't dangerous.

The womb is made of muscle. To push out its lining, it squeezes. Natural substances in your body called prostaglandins cause this squeezing. The more of them there are, the stronger the pain can feel. Cramps usually start around the time bleeding begins, or just before, and are strongest in the first day or two.

• Put a hot water bottle or warm towel on your lower belly or back. Wrap it in cloth so you don't burn your skin.
• Take a warm shower.
• Move gently with a walk, stretching or yoga.
• Slowly rub your belly in circles.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothes.
• Drink enough water and eat as usual.
• Lie on your side with your knees pulled up.
• Try to get a good night's sleep.

If warmth isn't enough, a pain relief medicine can help. Ask a pharmacist or doctor which one to take and how, and make sure a parent knows. Don't take someone else's medicine without asking. Never take more than the leaflet says.

Some girls also get nausea, headaches, tiredness or diarrhoea along with cramps. These can be linked to periods too and usually pass in a day or two.

You don't have to just put up with pain. If it is so strong that you can't go to school, a doctor needs to know.