I'm so sorry to hear that you have a rough time with your period. I'm not sure HealthCentral has a site that specializes in these types of issues, which I guess is why you're on the rheumatoid arthritis site? Or do you have rheumatoid arthritis, as well? Anyway, I will do my best to help.

This kind of intense pain during your period can be an indication of possible endometriosis or fibroids, so I would recommend you make an appointment with your doctor to get a physical and possibly some tests (e.g. ultrasound) to assess what's going on. You might also consider asking for a referral to an OB/GYN who specializes in such conditions. While you're at your doctors, you should ask about help with pain control - it sounds to me as if you need prescription painkillers. It's also possible that going on The Pill may help.

One of the things you can do to help with really bad cramps is heated weight - for some reason, the weight seems to help, as you've already discovered by pushing your hand into your abdomen. Warm up a couple of plates in the oven, wrap them in a towel and then place them on your stomach. Make sure that they are warm enough to help, but not so warm that they will burn you (the towel should help with that). Some people also say that going for a brisk walk can be helpful, but if you're lying curled up in a ball because of the pain, walking is the last time thing on your mind. I've also heard that having an orgasm can be helpful, so enlist your partner or handle it yourself.

However, bottom line is that you need to see a doctor Good luck! Please let us know how things go?