14/05/2024
Last week I discussed period pains with a patient and thought it may be useful to share some info for anyone who may find it helpful. Feel free to share.
Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual cramps. There are two main types:
Primary Dysmenorrhea:
Painful periods not caused by any underlying pelvic condition
Often starts in the first few years after periods begin
Usually improves by age 30 or after childbirth
Secondary Dysmenorrhea:
Period pain caused by an existing pelvic issue like endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, etc.
Who Gets It?
Dysmenorrhea is very common, especially among teens and young adults. It's one of the top reasons for missed school/work.
What Causes It?
Primary Dysmenorrhea:
Increased uterine contractions to release blood can temporarily restrict blood flow and oxygen
Overproduction of chemicals like prostaglandins and vasopressin that intensify contractions
Narrow cervix making it difficult to get clots out
Pelvic/back misalignments or tensions affecting the movement of the uterus
Psychological factors like stress lowering pain tolerance
Secondary Dysmenorrhea:
Conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, adhesions causing inflammation/scarring
An IUD or other foreign object irritating the uterus
Prior pelvic surgery like C-section, episiotomy leading to scar tissue
Symptoms:
Cramping, spasmodic pelvic pain before/during period
Pain may radiate to lower back/thighs
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue
Managing It:
Rest, heat packs, exercise, having a good posture (or changing position regularly)
Supplements like calcium, magnesium, omega-3s
Avoiding inflammatory foods, caffeine and alcohol
Stretches, massage, pelvic exercises to keep everything moving
For secondary - treating the underlying condition can help alongside manual treatment to support your body in managing any pains and patterns of tension that have built up
Pain medication if needed
Keep a period diary or use an app to log your cycle and heaviness of your flow. This information can be helpful when discussing your pain with a healthcare professional as it helps us to understand what may be causing your pain.
The key ultimately is finding ways to reduce uterine spasms, inflammation and improve pelvic alignment/muscle balance, which is the focus of my osteopathy sessions. So please get in touch if this is affecting you or someone you love, no women should just have to suffer with pain every month!
