The condition, Dysmenorrhoea is also known as Painful Periods happens because of heavy pain during menstrual periods.
Depending on the origin, dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. It`s your normal period pain. The symptoms begin 1–2 days before the beginning of menstruation and usually fade after two to four days. This is because prostaglandins, the chemicals that trigger uterine contractions are released starting to cause a cramp-like feeling in you. Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs due to an underlying medical condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroid and cramps with this one can come at any time during the menstrual cycle.
Symptoms
The grade of dysmenorrhea symptoms differs from woman to woman. The typical symptoms include:
- Intense contractions, stabbing pain, and soreness in the pelvic region
- Radiating pain in the lower back and down one or both legs
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Headaches
- Fatigue and weakness
For a few unlucky women, the pain can keep them home from school or work. Identifying these signs is critical to getting help and managing the disorder so that it does not interfere with everyday life.
Causes of Severe Dysmenorrhea
Factors that Contribute to Extreme Cramps
Though the pain of primary dysmenorrhea is often alleviated over time, the reasons behind its occurrence are largely unknown. Some scholars believe it is due to changes in hormone levels and the body’s sensitivity to prostaglandins.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Other pathologies produce symptoms in secondary dysmenorrhea. Examples of these include:
Endometriosis: This is the growth of tissue that bears resemblance to the inner lining of the uterus, in places outside the uterus. It produces pain and its effects include inflammation.
Fibroids: These are benign tumours that grow within or on the female reproductive organ known as the uterus and may cause excessively painful menstrual periods.
Pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID): This is an infection of the reproductive organ or organs resulting in excruciating pain which can extend to the rest of the patient’s life.
Adenomyosis: Endometrial tissues grow into the muscular wall of the uterus in a condition known to cause severe pain.
Cervical Stenosis: This is the abnormal cervical channel with other restrictive features which may affect the menstrual flow and the pain that accompanies it.
Management and Treatment
Severe dysmenorrhea may not be managed or resolved by using a single-pronged approach:
By taking prescribed pain meds, you can manage the pain. Some over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be used. Some patients may be given stronger, prescription painkillers by their doctor.
Hormonal treatments: Include birth control pills and hormonal IUDs that interrupt the period and lower spasms during it. There are things you can do be engaged in exercise, eating the right diet, and practicing stress management.
Alternative Therapies: Some women benefit from acupuncture, herbal therapy, or dietary supplements. Any kind of nonstem cell therapy must be considered with a clinician BEFORE you decide to begin an alternative therapy.
Medical/Surgical Options: If there are identifiable lesions that cause secondary dysmenorrhea, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, then surgery may need to be done in order to remove the source of the pain.
Severe dysmenorrhea can have a disruptive impact on a woman’s life, creating chaos in their daily lives. But the most important part is to understand the reason, cause and symptoms. So, if you or a woman and you do \ suffer from chronic menstrual pain, then contact your health care provider. Many women can cope with this intense menstrual pain by taking proper treatment and support. You must remember that you are not alone—help is available whenever you need it.