Not usually. As many as 90% of women experience some pain or discomfort with their periods. Often, that discomfort can become intense, but this is commonly a result of normal menstrual cramps and is known as primary dysmenorrhea. Secondary dysmenorrhea, however, could be caused by an infection, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or other gynecological health problems. Talk to your healthcare provider about pain that's new or different.