What You Should Know About Period Pain and Painful Periods
Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is a common problem that many women experience every month. It usually shows itself with pain and discomfort felt in the lower abdomen. While period pain is mild in some people, in others it can seriously affect daily life. Here are the causes and symptoms of period pain, the treatment methods and the ways to get through this time more comfortably.
Causes of Period Pain
Period pain occurs when the uterus contracts to expel the unfertilised egg and the lining of the uterus. These contractions are triggered by the release of chemicals called prostaglandins. More severe pain is seen in people whose prostaglandin levels are high. Apart from this, the other causes of painful periods can be listed as follows:
- Endometriosis: uterine tissue growing outside the uterus and causing severe pain.
- Fibroids: benign tumours in the uterus causing pain by pressing on surrounding structures.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): infection of the uterus, the ovaries or the fallopian tubes.
- Adenomyosis: the inner lining of the uterus developing within the muscle tissue of the uterus.
Symptoms of Period Pain
Period pain is usually felt 1-2 days before the period starts and becomes more severe in the first days of bleeding. The symptoms include:
- Severe cramping and a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen
- Lower back and back pain
- Nausea and sometimes vomiting
- Headache or dizziness
- Pain and tension in the legs
- Digestive problems (diarrhoea or constipation)
Ways to Relieve Period Pain
To reduce period pain and make this time more comfortable you can try the following suggestions:
1. Heat
Applying a hot water bottle or a gently warmed towel to the abdomen can relax the muscles and reduce the pain.
2. Exercise
Gentle walking, yoga and stretching increase blood circulation and help the muscles relax.
3. Herbal teas
Herbal teas such as chamomile, fennel and ginger can reduce inflammation and relax the uterus.
4. Dietary changes
Eating foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and calcium relieves the pain. Staying away from salt, caffeine and sugar can also be helpful.
5. Massage techniques
Gentle circular massage of the lower abdomen helps the muscles relax.
6. Medication
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs taken on a doctor’s advice can reduce the pain considerably.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Although period pain is usually harmless, in some cases it can be the sign of a serious underlying problem. It is advisable to see a doctor in the following situations:
- The pain increases month by month.
- The pain disrupts your daily life.
- Your period lasts longer than normal.
- The bleeding is very heavy and contains clots.
- The pain is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, severe nausea and vomiting.
Although period pain is a common problem, this time can be made easier with simple measures and appropriate treatment. However, if you have severe and persistent pain you should consult a gynaecologist who is a specialist in this field.