Crimson Pain: The Silent Agony of Menstrual Cramps Every Ghanaian Woman Knows Too Well. 

From throbbing pain to societal silence, Ghanaian women endure menstrual cramps with little empathy. This heartfelt piece sheds light on our monthly battles and resilience.

The First Twinge – A Betrayal From Within.

It starts as a whisper—a dull ache low in the belly, a tightening that coils like a snake ready to strike. Then, without warning, it clenches. A vice-like grip, a fire spreading through your pelvis, a pain so deep it feels like your womb is waging war against you.

You try to stand, but your body rebels. A cold sweat breaks out. Your vision blurs. You clutch your stomach, willing the pain to subside, but it only laughs at your weakness.

Welcome to menstrual cramps—the monthly curse every Ghanaian woman knows, yet so few speak about.

Why Does It Hurt So Much? 

Science calls it dysmenorrhea—contractions of the uterus shedding its lining. But for Ghanaian women, it’s more than biology. It’s:

Hot water bottles pressed desperately against your stomach.

Misunderstood absences—”Why is she always sick this time of the month?”

Pain killers swallowed like sweets, praying for just an hour of relief.

The shame of staining your favorite skirt because your body refuses to cooperate. And yet, we carry on. Because society expects us to.

The Ghanaian Woman’s Silent Struggle

In a country where periods are still taboo, where mothers whisper about “that time of the month” but never discuss the agony, women suffer in silence.

At work, you fake a smile while your insides twist.

In class, you count minutes until you can curl up in bed.

At home, you’re told, “Drink ginger, it’ll pass,” as if pain this deep can be washed away.

And the worst part? No one takes it seriously.

It’s just cramps. All women go through it. Stop being dramatic. But when the pain leaves you pale, shaking, and nauseous, how is this “just” anything?

A Love Letter to Every Woman Who Survives This Monthly Battle

You are stronger than this pain. You are braver than those who dismiss your suffering. You are not alone—even when it feels like it.

How to Ease the Pain (Because You Deserve Relief) 

1. Heat Therapy – A hot water bottle or warm bath can soothe clenched muscles.

2. Gentle Movement – Light stretches or walking may ease stiffness.

3. Hydration & Herbs– Ginger tea, peppermint, and staying hydrated help.

4. Pain Relief – If painkillers work for you, use them without guilt.

5. Rest – Your body is working hard. Give it grace.

Breaking the Silence

It’s time we normalize the conversation. Dear Men, don’t roll your eyes-listen. Mothers, teach your daughters it’s okay to rest.  Society, stop acting like periods are a dirty secret.

To Every Woman Reading This 

Next time the cramps come like a storm, remember:  💔 You are not weak for hurting. ❤️ You are a warrior for enduring. Your pain is real. Your strength is unmatched.

E.A-B Kelzi