Painful period cramps could be caused by heavy menstrual bleeding, which often affects you to take part in everyday life around your period. Or they could be caused by endometriosis. In this painful condition, the cells or tissue lining the uterus, grow outside the uterus. You should see your doctor who can do a blood test and get your history to help you get better. Some hormonal contraceptives are registered for women or girls with heavy menstrual bleeding who also need contraception.