‘Swearing Is Fun’: The Odd But Effective Way To Beat Period Pain!

Last Updated:October 01, 2025, 15:48 IST

Sexual health expert says swearing can ease period pain by boosting pain tolerance and reducing stress. But it’s no substitute for medical treatment and healthy habits

Openly expressing emotions can significantly improve mental and physical well-being, particularly during times of discomfort. (News18)

Many women experience pain and discomfort during their menstrual cycle, with period pain being a familiar challenge for most. When the pain becomes severe, some women rely on heating pads, while others find comfort in chocolate or coffee. In more intense cases, medication becomes necessary to manage the discomfort.

Recently, sexual health educator Dr Tanya Narendra discussed an unusual but intriguing method to ease period pain during a podcast. She claimed that swearing while experiencing period pain can actually reduce the sensation of pain.

According to Dr Narendra, swearing not only lowers stress levels but also boosts the ability to tolerate pain.

Unusual Method To Ease Period Pain

As reported by the Indian Express, Dr Narendra explained that swearing is more than just an emotional reaction; it can provide significant mental relief. Research supports this, showing that people who are allowed to swear tend to endure pain for longer periods.

She referenced a 2009 study in which participants were asked to submerge their hands in icy water. Those who swore were able to keep their hands submerged for around 30 seconds longer than those who did not.

Mental Relief Through Swearing

Swearing helps release pent-up emotions, which in turn reduces the perception of pain. In a lighthearted moment during the podcast, Dr Narendra joked, “Swearing is fun, friend, and eating chocolate. If your partner doesn’t bring chocolate, abuse him.”

While said in jest, there is scientific reasoning behind this advice: openly expressing emotions can significantly improve mental and physical well-being, particularly during times of discomfort.

Expert Opinion

To add further insight, clinical psychologist Neha Parashar from Mindtalk told the Indian Express that swearing activates the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotions and stress responses. When activated, this system triggers the release of pain-relieving hormones such as adrenaline and endorphins, which provide temporary relief from pain.

Parashar explained that swearing helps individuals achieve emotional balance and control, acting as a form of catharsis. This emotional release lightens the mind and reduces the intensity of pain, albeit temporarily.

However, it is important to stress that swearing should never be considered a substitute for proper medical care. If period pain is severe enough to interfere with daily activities, it is essential to consult a doctor or gynaecologist.

Swearing may provide temporary comfort but is not a permanent solution.

Additional Practical Measures

Parashar also recommends other practical measures to help manage period pain, including light exercise or yoga, drinking plenty of water, maintaining a balanced diet rich in iron and magnesium, and ensuring sufficient sleep.

Applying warmth to the abdomen, as well as practising mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing, can also be effective in reducing discomfort.

However, in cases where pain becomes unbearable, seeking specialist advice remains crucial.

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Author: News18