Preparing for an appointment

If you have bothersome menstrual cramps, make an appointment with either your primary physician or a doctor who specializes in the female reproductive system (gynecologist). Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Track your menstrual periods, when they begin and how severe your cramps are. Also, make a list of:

• Medical problems you've had and recent major stresses in your life
• All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take
• Questions to ask your doctor

For menstrual cramps, basic questions include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• Are my symptoms likely to change over time?
• Do I need any tests done?
• What treatments or home remedies might help?
• Are there brochures or other printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions as they occur to you.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, such as:

• How old were you when you began menstruating?
• How far apart are your menstrual periods, and how long do they typically last?
• How heavy is your menstrual bleeding? Do you ever bleed between periods?
• Where do your cramps hurt?
• Do you have other symptoms with your cramps, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, back pain, dizziness or headaches?
• Do your symptoms cause you to limit your activities, stay home from work or school, or avoid exercise?
• If you're sexually active, is intercourse painful?
• What treatments have you tried so far, if any? Has anything helped?
• Do women in your family have a history of similar symptoms?

What you can do in the meantime

When you have cramps, try taking a warm bath or applying a heating pad, hot water bottle or heat patch to your abdomen. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, also might help.