5 Signs Your Period Pain Isn’t “Just Normal”

Many women grow up hearing that period pain is just something they have to deal with. Cramps, bloating, and discomfort are brushed off as a regular part of the menstrual cycle. But there’s a difference between mild cramping and the kind of pain that makes you cancel plans, call out of work, or curl up in bed for hours.

At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Greer, SC, we work with women every day who’ve been told their pain is “just part of being a woman.” We’re here to challenge that idea—and help you understand when your pain deserves a closer look.

Here are five clear signs your period pain might be pointing to something more.

1. Your Cramps Knock You Off Your Feet

Mild discomfort during your cycle is normal. But if you find yourself unable to go about your day—missing work, skipping social events, or relying on heavy-duty painkillers—something deeper may be going on. Conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or pelvic floor dysfunction could be contributing to your pain. And the right care can make all the difference.

2. Pain Lingers Before or After Your Period

Cramps that start days before your period or stick around long after it ends aren’t typical. Persistent pain outside your cycle might indicate chronic inflammation, nerve sensitivity, or muscle tension that deserves evaluation and treatment.

3. You Rely on Meds Just to Function

Needing pain relief every once in a while is fine—but when you can’t get through your cycle without medication, that’s a sign your body may need more support. At our Greer SC physical therapy clinic, we work to treat the root cause of your pain so you don’t have to depend on pills to get through the month.

4. You Have Pain with Bowel Movements or Sex

Pain during intercourse or while using the bathroom—especially around your period—could be linked to tight pelvic floor muscles, scar tissue, or underlying conditions like endometriosis. Through specialized manual therapy and pelvic floor exercises, we help relieve tension and restore comfort where it matters most.

5. You’ve Been Told “It’s All in Your Head”

Far too often, women are told their pain isn’t real—or that they’re overreacting. We hear this story again and again. At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, we listen. We believe you. And we work to get to the root of what’s really going on, so you can find real, lasting relief.

How Pelvic Floor PT Can Help

Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just for postpartum healing. It’s a powerful tool for addressing the muscle tension, alignment issues, and chronic patterns that can contribute to period pain. At Bodyworks, we provide:

• Manual therapy in Greer SC to ease tight muscles and improve circulation

• Postural education and core strengthening for better alignment

• Breathwork and relaxation training to reduce pelvic floor strain

• Support for understanding your cycle and pain patterns

You Don’t Have to Push Through the Pain

Painful periods are common—but they aren’t something you have to accept. If your cycle is impacting your quality of life, we want you to know there’s hope.

We’re here to listen, support, and guide you toward feeling better—because period pain shouldn’t rule your life.

Reach out to Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Greer, SC, and let’s take the first step together.