Menstrual cramps are caused by prostaglandins, which stimulate muscle contractions needed to shed the uterine lining. Cramps can range from mildly irritating to debilitating and can be caused by conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids. Treatment includes over-the-counter pain medication, home remedies, and prescription medication if necessary.
Menstrual cramps are contractions of the uterus. When a woman menstruates, special hormones are released. These hormones, called prostaglandins, work to stimulate the muscle contractions needed to shed the uterine lining. Because prostaglandins trigger menstrual cramps, they also take heat from the pain that so often accompanies them.
While menstrual contractions aren’t as strong as the contractions experienced during labor and delivery, they do involve the same muscles. Some women experience cramping with every menstrual cycle, while others experience them only occasionally. Menstrual cramps can be uncomfortable, ranging in intensity from mildly irritating to debilitating.
It is important to note that cramps can occur painlessly. Some women experience uterine contractions without realizing it or with very little discomfort. Many, however, face pain every month, caused by prolonged and intense contractions. The pain of cramps is felt when these powerful contractions cut off the blood supply to the uterus, leading to a lack of oxygen to the related muscles. Fortunately, oxygen deprivation, like the pain, is only temporary.
In some cases, menstrual cramps feel too intense to be normal. Sometimes, other conditions can exacerbate or mimic this cramp. For example, a condition called endometriosis causes extreme abdominal pain and severe menstrual cramps. Fibroids can also cause painful periods and heavy menstrual bleeding. Similarly, pelvic inflammatory disease can cause severe pain during menstruation.
In most cases, cramping is an unfortunate, but normal, part of women’s lives. Treatment is typically aimed at reducing the discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medications are often used to ease menstrual pain. Massage, heat applications, and other home remedies are also often used. Some women find relief from exercise or stretching.
For a woman suffering from debilitating menstrual cramps, a visit to a doctor is a must. A doctor or other health care professional can examine the woman and review her medical history, ruling out potentially serious causes of period pain. If no secondary conditions are discovered, your doctor may be able to prescribe prescription medications to address the discomfort or prevent cramping altogether. For example, some women are able to avoid period pain while taking birth control pills. Hormonal treatments can also be helpful for treating painful cramps.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
