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Menstrual cramps typically involve mild to intense abdominal cramping that initiates within a day of your period's onset and persists for several days.
Symptoms of period pain encompass:
- A dull, persistent ache
- Cramps radiating to your lower back and thighs
- Throbbing or cramping sensations in your uterus during menstruation
In addition, some women may also encounter:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Nausea
But what causes period pain? Menstrual cramps, known as dysmenorrhea, are categorized as "primary dysmenorrhea." This type of cramping arises due to an increased release of prostaglandins, hormones produced by the uterus that prompt it to contract. These uterine contractions temporarily pause the blood flow to the uterus, leading to a temporary lack of oxygen supply to the uterine muscles. This sequence sets off the cycle of menstrual pain and cramps.
If you're experiencing considerable pain during your menstrual periods, seeking guidance from a medical professional is advisable, as menstrual pain could indicate a serious underlying issue. Below are the five major conditions causing painful menstrual cramps.
#1 - Endometriosis: A Common Cause of Severe Period Pain
Endometriosis is a gynaecological disorder characterized by the presence of tissue resembling the endometrium outside the uterus. This tissue can be located on various pelvic structures such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and pelvic floor, and in more severe instances, it might even affect areas like the bowel, diaphragm, liver, lungs, and, rarely, the brain.
If left untreated, endometriosis can result in the formation of adhesions, persistent inflammation, the development of chocolate cysts (cysts filled with blood), and internal bleeding. These complications collectively contribute to intense pelvic pain.
#2 - Adenomyosis: Painful Cramps and Sex
Adenomyosis shares similarities with endometriosis, with the key distinction being that, in adenomyosis, the endometrial tissue embeds itself deep within the muscular layer of the uterus rather than outside of it. For individuals with adenomyosis, the uterus is often likened to a bruised muscle.
Common symptoms of adenomyosis encompass discomforting central cramps and painful intercourse, which can persist for a day or two afterward. Typically observed in women over the age of 30 who have already experienced childbirth, adenomyosis also manifests in teenagers on occasion.
#3 - Uterine Fibroids: A Monthly Period Nightmare for Some
Up to three out of every four women may develop uterine fibroids, although the majority will not encounter any noticeable symptoms. These fibroids exhibit a range in size, spanning from microscopic dimensions to a magnitude sufficient to alter the shape of the uterus.
Uterine fibroids possess the capacity to transform a woman's monthly menstrual cycle into a distressing ordeal, as they amplify both the volume of bleeding and the intensity of period-related discomfort. The rationale behind this pain lies in the necessity for the uterus to contract (cramp) during menstruation, aiding in the expulsion of sizeable blood clots often arising from heavy bleeding. Fortunately, it's noteworthy that fibroids do not elevate the risk of uterine cancer and the incidence of them turning malignant is rare.
#4 - Copper IUD: Period Pain After Insertion vs. Cramps Later On
A copper IUD stands as a reversible and non-hormonal contraception method, capable of offering pregnancy prevention for a span of up to 10 years. This device is inserted into the uterus by a licensed healthcare provider and operates by consistently releasing copper, a mechanism that immobilizes sperm and hinders the implantation of eggs.
In contrast to a progestin IUD, a copper IUD has the potential to intensify menstrual flow and discomfort, particularly during the initial cycles following its insertion. However, it's important to bear in mind that if you've had a copper IUD for an extended duration and subsequently experience sudden and severe menstrual pain, it's advisable to seek other potential explanations. It's unlikely that the IUD itself is the root cause of such discomfort.
#5 - Can Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Cause Menstrual Cramps?
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection that affects the female reproductive tract and is primarily triggered by untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If left unaddressed, PID has the potential to induce inflammation, scarring, discomforting menstrual cramps, and even infertility.
The emergence of PID is often linked to sexually transmitted infections that generate scar tissue and adhesions within the pelvic area. During the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations impact not only the uterus but also the encompassing structures, including the previously formed scar tissue and adhesions. This hormonal influence can contribute to heightened inflammation, increased bleeding, and amplified pain. Detecting PID early enables treatment with antibiotics, yet it's crucial to acknowledge that antibiotics cannot reverse any structural harm caused by the infection.
Adhering to safe sexual practices and undergoing regular testing for sexually transmitted infections, particularly if you experience severe menstrual pain, are vital precautions to consider.
If you find that your painful periods are interfering with your daily activities, it's advisable to reach out to your healthcare provider. While mild cramps are generally considered normal, if you're experiencing intense cramping and pain to the extent that it hampers your ability to attend school or work, it might be an indication that treatment is necessary.
Keeping a record of your menstrual cycles and noting the days when pain is at its most severe can be helpful when communicating with your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you observe other symptoms such as headaches or excessive bleeding, it's important to track those as well. If you're looking for natural ways to alleviate menstrual pain and discomfort, you might want to explore Period Pain Ayurvedic CBD Oil Oral Drops. These drops are crafted with powerful anti-inflammatory properties that have the potential to ease cramps and the discomfort commonly linked to your menstrual cycle.