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| Physicians treating - painful periods |
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| Menstrual pain / cramps (dysmenorrhea) ... |
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Painful periods can happen to women of any age and there are two types of painful periods.
Pain that is not caused by a medical problem is experienced mostly in women with regular periods and who have the ability to get pregnant. (Women who have fertility problems are often pain free.) The pain usually starts just before the period and continues for the first day or two. Researchers think it is caused by the body making a lot of chemicals called prostaglandins. These chemicals help the womb to squeeze (contract) and push out its lining during a period. |
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Pain that is caused by a medical condition, may be endometriosis, an infection, or an ovarian cyst. |
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- Sharp spasms (cramps), usually in the middle of your lower abdomen (pelvis)
- Pain that shoots to the back of your legs
- Pain that shoots to your lower back
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Fever
- Headaches
- Feeling light-headed
- Feeling tired
If you experience any symptoms below, you should talk to your doctor. |
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- Pain that starts later in life
- Pain that's not just in your middle or lower abdomen
- Pain at times other than the first couple of days of your period
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain that is not helped by medication
- A discharge from your vagina.
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| Today, the main goal is to reduce the prostaglandins in our body before the period begins, as well as, during menstruation. Getting control before the full flow of the period is key. There are several drugs available over the counter that work including naproxen, ibuprofen, and even aspirin. Many more are available by prescription. Birth control pills are also useful in stopping the natural cycle of chemicals. |
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| Regular Exercise --- all through the month will help relieve painful periods |
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| Reduce Salt --- bloating always seems to magnify cramps, so reduce salty foods 72 hours prior |
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| Reduced amounts of caffeine and alcohol --- drink warm tea instead |
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| Consume more fiber starting 72 hours before --- constipation could contribute to menstrual cramps |
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| Use a heating pads --- they seem to help relieve the pain |
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| Take a hot bath --- helps the body relax |
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| Reduce stress --- stress can affect your body in numerous ways |
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