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Causes of Painful Periods

Painful periods medically referred to as Dysmenorrhea, involve discomfort or pain experienced during menstruation. The severity of pain can range from mild to intense, often affecting the lower abdomen, back, and pelvic region. While painful periods are common among women of all ages, they tend to be more prevalent in younger individuals.

Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea:

  • Intense or cramping pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
  • Pain in the thighs or posterior region.
  • Nausea, headaches, or dizziness during menstruation.
  • Discomfort that interferes with daily activities, such as work, exercise, or routine tasks.

Remedies to Manage Painful Periods:

  1. Heat Therapy: Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to the abdomen to relax muscles and reduce pain.
  2. Regular Exercise: Staying active improves circulation and releases endorphins, which can ease pain.
  3. Balanced Diet: Consuming omega-3-rich foods, antioxidants, and reducing caffeine or salty foods can help alleviate symptoms.
  4. Pain-Relief Medications: Over-the-counter NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, can reduce inflammation and discomfort.

What Causes Painful Periods?

1. Primary Dysmenorrhea

This type arises from the natural menstrual cycle without any underlying medical conditions.

  • Hormonal Changes: High levels of prostaglandins released during menstruation can intensify uterine contractions, causing pain.
  • Age Factor: Teenagers and young women, especially in their 20s, are more susceptible due to hormonal fluctuations.
2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea

This pain stems from underlying gynecological conditions, such as:

  • Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to severe pain.
  • Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that cause discomfort.
  • Adenomyosis: The uterine lining infiltrates the muscle wall, resulting in heavy, painful periods.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Chronic infections in reproductive organs can trigger ongoing pain.
  • Cervical Stenosis: A narrowed cervix impedes menstrual flow, increasing pain.
Severe Menstrual Cramps: When to Seek Medical Help

Seek professional assistance if:

  • Severe pain disrupts daily activities.
  • The severity of pain increases over time.
  • Symptoms like heavy bleeding, nausea, or vomiting accompany the pain.
  • Pain is experienced between periods or during intercourse.

Treatment Options for Severe Menstrual Cramps

1. Medications

  • NSAIDs: For pain and inflammation.
  • Hormonal Therapy: Use of birth control pills or IUDs to regulate periods and reduce pain.
  • Specialized Hormonal Treatments for conditions like endometriosis, GnRH agonists may be prescribed.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Laparoscopy: To diagnose and address conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.
  • Endometrial Ablation: Removing the uterine lining to reduce bleeding and alleviate pain.

3. Surgery

  1. Myomectomy: Removing fibroids without disrupting the uterus
  2. Hysterectomy: In severe situations, the uterus may need to be removed

Why Choose Life Plus Hospital for Period Pain Care?

Specialized Gynecologists:

Our experts ensure accurate diagnosis and compassionate care.

Advanced Diagnostics:

State-of-the-art tools to identify underlying conditions.

Customized Treatment Plans:

Tailored solutions ranging from medications to advanced surgeries.

Holistic Support:

A caring environment to make your journey comfortable and informed.

Take charge of your menstrual health with expert guidance and advanced treatments at Life Plus Hospital. Contact LifePlus Hospital today! Schedule an appointment and discover your path to pain-free periods.

Have Questions? We're Here-Reach out to us!

Dysmenorrhea is very common, particularly among younger women and those who have just started menstruating. It is estimated that 50-90% of women experience some form of dysmenorrhea during their lifetime, with the severity of pain varying from person to person.

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