Period pain should be taken seriously, especially if it is strong or stops you joining in.
Quick answer
If you have bad cramps at school, tell a trusted adult. You may need to rest, drink water, use warmth if available, or get help from home or a healthcare professional.
Are cramps common?
Mild cramps can happen before or during a period. But pain that is severe, makes you vomit, makes you faint, or stops you taking part in normal school life should not be ignored.
What can help at school?
- Ask to go to the toilet and change your product if needed.
- Drink water.
- Ask if you can rest somewhere quiet.
- Use a heat pad or warm pack only if your school allows it and it is safe.
- Take pain relief only if it has been agreed with your parent, carer, school or healthcare professional.
What can I say?
- “My period cramps are bad.”
- “I need to rest.”
- “Can I call home?”
- “This pain is not normal for me.”
When should I get more help?
Tell a trusted adult urgently if pain is severe, you feel faint, you are vomiting, you have a fever, you are bleeding heavily, or pain stops you going to lessons or doing normal activities.
Important
You do not have to “just put up with” severe period pain. If period pain regularly disrupts school, it is worth speaking to a healthcare professional. Ask Luma
You could ask: “What can I say if period cramps are bad at school?” or “When is period pain not normal?”
Final reassurance
Asking for help with cramps is sensible. Pain is real, even if other people cannot see it.