4. Normal NOT Normal
Period Cramps: How to Know if Your Pain Is Normal
Period cramps, or dysmenorrhea, are a really common experience during menstruation (more common than we think), but their intensity can vary from person to person. The bigger question that often arises is, how do you know if your cramps are just part of a healthy cycle, or if they signal something more serious?
Understanding how to measure the severity of menstrual cramps can help you determine when to manage the pain at home and when to seek help. In this guide, we’ll break down the different scales used to measure period pain, what’s considered “normal,” and when it’s time to be concerned.
Note:
If your cramps feel more intense than usual, last longer, or come with unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to check in with a healthcare professional. Your comfort and wellbeing matter, and getting the right support can make all the difference.
What’s Normal and What’s Not?
Period cramps can feel different for everyone. Some women experience just a bit of discomfort, while others face intense pain that can mess with their day-to-day routine.
Note:
Normal = Mild to moderate cramps that don’t stop you from going about your daily activities can usually be managed with simple remedies, such as heat packs or over-the-counter pain relievers. These sort of cramps are generally considered “normal”.Not Normal = However, if the pain is extremely severe and persistent, preventing you from working, studying, or just going about your day (and nothing seems to help), it may be time to consult a doctor.
The Scales to Measure Period Cramps
There are several tools and scales that healthcare professionals use to assess the severity of period cramps. These methods help to categorize the pain, so patients and doctors can determine the appropriate course of action.
Here are the most commonly used scales:
1. Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
The Visual Analog Scale is one of the simplest tools used to measure pain. It consists of a 10-cm line where one end represents "no pain at all" and the other end represents "unbearable pain."
| Type | Rating |
|---|---|
| Mild dysmenorrhea | 1–3 |
| Moderate dysmenorrhea | 4–7 |
| Severe dysmenorrhea | 8–10 |
This scale helps you visually assess how much pain you’re in, based on a straightforward line, making it easier to communicate the severity of your cramps to a healthcare provider.
Figure 1: Linear Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)
2. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS)
| Type | Rating |
|---|---|
| Mild dysmenorrhea | 1–3 |
| Moderate dysmenorrhea | 4–7 |
| Severe dysmenorrhea | 8–10 |
Figure 2: Numeric Pain Rating Scale
3. Verbal Rating Scale (VRS)
Figure 3: Verbal Rating Scale (McGill Pain Questionnaire)
4. WaLIDD Score
Figure 4: WaLIDD score variables
Medically reviewed by: Dr Yash Bahuguna
Researched by: Dr Inara Isani
Written by: Avantika Sukhia
References
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Image References
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