Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

More than 50% of women who menstruate experience some kind of pain associated with the start of their periods. Usually, the symptoms are mild and can be relieved with non-prescription medications, a warm bath or heating pad, and rest.

But sometimes, the pain can be so severe, that is keeps you from getting to class, eating, or participating in regular acivities. Pain like this, associated with the onset of the period, is called dysmenorrhea. Women who suffer from dysmenorrhea may find that in addition to debilitating cramps, they may also experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, back pain, leg pain, headaches and dizziness.

What causes the pain?

The uterus is a muscle that contracts and relaxes. During your period, it contracts more strongly, sometimes causing the cramping many women associate with periods. Contractions are caused by prostaglandins which are checmicals made by the lining of the uterus. At the start of your period, prostaglandins are at their highest level. This contributes to the pain that some women  feel. 

How can a healthcare provider help?

Dysmenorrhea can be managed  and a healthcare provider can offer relief and suggestions to reduce the monthly symptoms. The provider may suggest hormonal treatment (such as birth control pills) or other medications that relax the muscles of the uterus. Complementary and alternative medicine practices (e.g. acupuncture, meditation) may also help. In some severe cases of "secondary" dysmenorrhea due to the presence of fibroids, endometriosis or other diseases or conditions , surgery may be recommended.

What can I do?

 In addition to consulting with a healthcare provider, you may want to try other techniques to relieve the pain:

• Aerobic exercise, such as walking, jogging, biking or swimming can help produce endorphins that help to block pain.
• A warm bath or heating pad on your abdomen may be soothing.
• Meditative practices (e.g. yoga) can help with the pain.
• Orgasms have been known to relieve menstrual cramps in some women. 

If you suffer from severe menstrual cramps, or your cramps last more than 2-3 days during your period, or you have other symptoms that come with your period, call Gannett  and make an appointment.  There is no reason for you to suffer each month.