Period pain consultations
Menstrual cramps ( also called period pains) are extremely common. In some women it is mild and manageable and for others it may severely affect their quality of life by disrupting their daily activities, sleep , work.
At St Hugh's, we believe that period pain should never be dismissed and we believe that understanding menstrual discomfort that requires careful evaluation is an important step towards better health. Our consultants take a personalised approach, combining a detailed medical history, symptom review and appropriate investigations to support your health and wellbeing.
Period pain that is more severe than mild discomfort can be a sign of:
- Primary dysmenorrhoea, caused by muscular uterine contractions
- Secondary dysmenorrhoea, due to an underlying condition such as endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Hormonal imbalances or structural issues
If period pain is:
- Affecting your quality of life
- Increasing over time
- Accompanied by heavy bleeding, nausea, pain during intercourse, or fertility concerns, a consultation can help clarify the cause and guide effective management
Before your appointment
You may be asked to keep a menstrual symptom diary to record:
- Pain severity
- Duration of symptoms
- Associated symptoms (nausea, headaches, bowel or bladder changes)
- Use of pain relief
This information helps your clinician understand your symptom pattern.
During the consultation
Your specialist will:
- Take full a medical and menstrual history
- Discuss your symptoms in detail
- Perform a physical or pelvic examination if appropriate
- Advise on imaging or tests needed (e.g. – Ultrasound)
After the consultation
You will receive a personalised support which may include:
- Pain management techniques
- Hormonal treatments
- Referral for further imaging or additional treatment such as surgery options.
At our hospital we provide comprehensive assessment, ultrasound and advanced gynaecological imaging, individual treatment plans, minimal invasive surgery options when needed, medical treatment and overall compassionate and confidential care
Common causes reviewed during consultation include:
- Primary dysmenorrhoea – no underlying pathology but painful cramps
- Endometriosis – growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus
- Fibroids – benign muscular tumours in the uterus
- Adenomyosis – endometrial tissue within the uterine muscle
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Other reproductive or hormonal conditions
Each condition is discussed sensitively, and diagnostic options are explained clearly so you understand the next steps
Any further questions?
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What to do next
- Talk to us about ways to pay, either insured or self-pay, and find out if you need a referral from your doctor.
- If you need one, ask your doctor for a referral letter.
- To book an appointment with a consultant you can either call us, email us, or book online if you are self-paying for your treatment.
- Currently, not all Consultants are available for Self-Pay Online Booking. Please contact us directly if you do not see the consultant/service you are looking for and would like to make a booking.
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