As I said, I do know these periods. And I know what it's like to get no sympathy. I also suggested some things that helped me (mooncup and reflexology).

But I also learnt how to get on with life, as there was no other option. Curling into a ball and crying was only for the weak, I was told. In retrospect, not necessarily a good thing. Explosives + high pain + meds is not a good combination. But when there's no other choice, it's what you do.