The menstrual cycle associated with cramps is a natural process that any woman would experience. It’s the biological clock that strikes ‘welcome to womanhood’ every month that can’t be ignored. Every woman who menstruates tends to experience period discomfort, some may feel less or some may feel more extreme. In some women, severe menstrual cramps can interfere with regular activities. If you are one of them and believe it's normal, there could be a problem! Period discomfort is considered abnormal if it interferes with everyday activities. In such a situation, you should consult a gynecologist because severe menstrual cramps might indicate an underlying health condition.
What causes extreme menstrual cramps?
Here are eight reasons you may experience severe menstrual cramps while on your period:
- Primary dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea refers to common menstrual cramps that are not caused by another medical condition. These cramps often start one to two days before menstruation and last between two and four days. Pain in your back, thighs, or lower abdomen can range from modest to severe. The pain is caused by uterine contractions resulting from a hormonal imbalance in the body.
- Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. While this abnormal growth is not cancerous, it can cause significant pain, not just during menstruation but also at other stages of the menstrual cycle. According to experts, in addition to severe menstrual pain, you may experience heavy periods, stomach aches, pain during intercourse, uncomfortable bowel movements, and periods that last more than 7 days.
- Uterine fibroids
Fibroids are noncancerous growths that can develop inside or outside the uterus. Heavy bleeding, longer menstrual cycles, back and leg pain, constipation, and severe cramps are some of the symptoms. However, symptoms may vary according to the size and location of the fibroids. Fibroids may be asymptomatic for some people but debilitating for others. Your doctor may offer hormone therapy to help you feel better. In severe cases, surgical options may be considered.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, are frequently the cause of PID, a female reproductive organ infection. According to a study it can induce chronic pelvic pain, including severe menstrual cramps. Patients with this sickness may also have painful intercourse, fever, spotting between periods, a burning feeling while urinating, and bleeding during sex.
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
According to a study published, an IUD, particularly a copper IUD, can cause more severe menstrual cramps, especially in the first few months after implantation. The device may induce the production of prostaglandins or cause an inflammatory response in the uterus. Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers to help with period discomfort. However, if cramping persists, switching to another method of contraception may be a possibility.
- Cervical stenosis
Cervical stenosis, also known as closed cervix, is a condition in which the cervix is either too tiny or completely closed, inhibiting menstrual flow. This causes a buildup of blood in the uterus, which increases pressure and pain. This syndrome may be present at birth or emerge later in life. Symptoms of this condition include painful periods, reduced bleeding, and spotting between periods.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by enlarged ovaries and little cysts on their outer edges. According to reports, it affects one out of every 10 women of reproductive age. Women suffering from this illness may experience irregular menstrual cycles, severe cramps, acne, weight gain, thinning hair, and hair growth on the face, chin, and other parts of the body. You may be advised to take hormonal birth control pills to regulate your periods and ease discomfort.
- Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or inside the ovaries. Symptoms may include heavy periods, acute or dull pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, and discomfort during intercourse. While many cysts are benign and go away on their own, others can cause significant pain and suffering, especially if they rupture or develop in size. Large or unpleasant cysts may necessitate surgical excision.
Tips to manage severe menstrual cramps at home
- Heat pad
Applying heat to the lower belly relaxes uterine muscle contractions and increases blood flow, reducing period cramp intensity. You can place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower tummy for 15-20 minutes. You might also try taking a warm bath for quick relief.
- OTC painkillers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, do not completely relieve period pain and cramps. However, they can greatly reduce the severity of abdominal and back pain.
- Regular workouts
Physical activity increases blood circulation and produces endorphins (natural pain relievers), which improve mood and alleviate pain. Avoid practicing intense exercises. Instead, stroll, jog, or stretch to alleviate pain.
- Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is critical when it comes to reducing period symptoms. It helps to reduce bloating and pain that might develop throughout the menstrual cycle. Aim to drink at least eight glasses every day. To unwind, drink chamomile or ginger tea.
- Manages stress levels
Stress can exacerbate period pain. Deep breathing and other relaxation exercises can help to reduce muscle tension.
Conclusion
Apart from the above tips, avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat. Furthermore, to reduce inflammation and cramps, consume more magnesium-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish). A healthy and hygienic lifestyle can be achieved by incorporating Healing Pharma's wide variety of feminine care products into daily life. You can trust Healing Pharma for women's health medications. Our products are available in all pharmacy stores countrywide through valid prescriptions.