A visual with simple phrases young people can use to explain period pain to a trusted adult.
Quick answer
You do not need perfect medical words. You can explain where it hurts, how strong it feels, what it stops you doing, and what help you need.
A simple way to explain it
- Say where it hurts. For example: “It hurts in my lower tummy and back.”
- Say how strong it feels. You can use words like mild, strong or sharp, or give it a number from 1 to 10.
- Say what it is stopping you doing. For example: “I cannot focus in class,” or “It hurts to walk around.”
- Say what else is happening. Tell them if you feel sick, dizzy, very tired, have a headache, or your bleeding feels heavy.
- Say what help you need. You might need rest, a heat pad, a drink, period products, to go home, or to see a doctor.
Words you can use
- “My cramps are really strong.”
- “It hurts in my lower tummy and back.”
- “It is stopping me doing normal things.”
- “I feel sick, dizzy or very tired.”
Example message
You could say: “I have period pain in my lower tummy and back. It feels like a 7 out of 10. It is making it hard to focus and I feel sick. I need some help.”
Helpful details to share
- where the pain is
- when it started
- how bad it is out of 10
- whether anything helps
- whether you feel sick, faint, dizzy or very tired
- whether bleeding is heavy
- whether the pain is stopping school, sleep, walking or normal activities
What if I feel embarrassed?
You can write it down, text it, or show an article or visual. You can also ask Luma to help you find the words first.
What if they do not understand?
Try another trusted adult, school nurse, GP or healthcare professional. Keep asking until someone listens and helps you.
Ask Luma
You could ask: “Help me explain period pain to my mum, dad, carer or teacher.”
Final reassurance
You deserve to be heard. Asking for help is not making a fuss.