Severe Menstrual Cramps are Not Normal! Know Reasons Why it Happens

If you experience severe menstrual cramps, this may be a medical problem. This may be due to underlying conditions, including endometriosis.

Menstrual cramps are part of being a woman. Every menstruating woman will get period pain at some point. But for some people, it’s more than just an inconvenience. Severe colds can affect daily life. If you are one of them and think this is normal, there may be a problem! If period pain prevents you from doing your daily activities, think differently. In this case, it needs to be evaluated by a gynaecologist because it may be a symptom of a disease such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Causes of Severe Menstrual Cramps

    1. Primary Dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea refers to normal menstrual cramps that are not caused by other medical conditions. These cramps usually start one to two days before your period and can last 2 to 4 days. You may feel mild to severe pain in your back, thighs, or abdomen. Pain is caused by uterine contractions caused by a chemical imbalance in the body.

    2. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic disease in which uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus. Although this abnormal growth is not cancer, it can cause severe pain not only during menstruation but also in other periods of one’s menstrual cycle. In addition to severe menstrual cramps, you may also experience symptoms such as heavy periods, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal pain, painful bowel movements, and menstrual periods lasting longer than seven days.

    3. Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop inside or outside the uterus. Symptoms include heavy bleeding, prolonged periods, back pain, leg pain, constipation, and severe cramps. However, symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the fibroids. In some people, fibroids may be asymptomatic, while in others they may be painful. Your doctor will recommend hormone replacement therapy and symptom relief. In severe cases, surgical options may be considered.

    4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is a disease of the female genital tract usually caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of PAs found that it can cause severe menstrual cramps as well as pelvic pain. People infected with this disease may also experience pain during sexual intercourse, fever, spotting during menstruation, burning during urination, and bleeding during sexual intercourse.

    5. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows into the uterine muscles. This can cause the uterus to grow two to three times larger and cause contractions, heavy bleeding and cramping. Since it doesn’t always show symptoms, if you have a serious condition, see your gynaecologist to diagnose the cause.

    6. Intrauterine device (IUD)

A study published by the British Medical Association found that IUDs, especially copper-containing IUDs, may make menstrual cramps worse, especially in the first few months after insertion. The device may increase prostaglandin production or cause an inflammatory response in the uterus. Your doctor may recommend pain medication to control the pain over time. However, if cramping occurs, switching to another birth control method may be an option.

    7. Cervical Stenosis

Cervical stenosis, also known as closed cervix, is a condition in which the cervix is ​​abnormally or completely closed, which can prevent menstruation. This can cause blood to flow into the uterus, increasing pressure and making it painful. You may be born with this condition or develop it later in life. Symptoms of this condition include painful periods, decreased bleeding, and spotting during your period.

    8. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal problem that causes the ovaries to enlarge and form small cysts on their outer edges. Approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age are affected by the condition, according to the Bureau of Women’s Health. Women with this disease may experience symptoms such as irregular menstrual periods, which can cause severe pain during menstruation, acne, weight gain, thinning of hair, and hair growth in the eyes, chin, and other parts of the body. You may be advised to use hormonal contraceptives to control your menstrual period and reduce pain.

    9. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid in the ovaries. It can cause symptoms such as heavy periods severe pain or dull ache in the lower abdomen, bloating, and discomfort during sex. Although most cysts are harmless and resolve on their own, some can be very painful and uncomfortable, especially if they burst or grow larger. If the cyst is large or painful, it must be removed surgically.

How to manage severe menstrual cramps

    1. Heating Pad

Applying heat to the abdomen can reduce the pain of cramps by relaxing the abdominal muscles and improving blood flow. You can use a heating pad or hot water bottle and place it on your stomach for 15-20 minutes. You may also consider taking a warm bath as soon as possible.

    2. Over-the-counter pain medication

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen do not necessarily control menstrual cramps. But they can help reduce stomach and back pain.

    3. Regular exercise

Physical activity stimulates the body and releases endorphins (natural painkillers) that improve mood and reduce pain. Do not do heavy exercise. Alternatively, try walking, running and stretching to relieve pain.

    4. Stay Hydrated

It is important to stay hydrated to reduce the risk of period cramps. It helps reduce bloating and discomfort you may experience during your menstrual period. Aim to drink at least 8 drinks a day. You can drink chamomile or ginger tea for a relaxing effect.

    5. Manage stress levels

Stress can cause menstrual cramps. Therefore, use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing to promote relaxation and reduce stress in the body.

In addition to these guidelines, avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat. Also increase magnesium-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids (like fish), to reduce inflammation and pain.