Period Pain/Menstrual Cramps/ Dysmenorrhoea

What is Period Pain?

Period pain is one of the most common reasons our patients request medical certificates online via NextClinic. Hence, we will explore what it is and how we can improve the symptoms through lifestyle changes.

Period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a common yet often underestimated aspect of a woman's menstrual cycle. For many women, it is a monthly ordeal that can significantly impact their quality of life. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and various methods to manage and alleviate period pain.

Types of Period Pain:

1. Primary Dysmenorrhea:

• This is the most common type of period pain and is not associated with any other medical condition. It usually begins 1-2 days before menstruation and may last from 2 to 4 days.
• The pain is typically felt in the lower abdomen and pelvis and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea:

• This type of period pain is linked to an underlying reproductive health issue such as endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Unlike primary dysmenorrhea, secondary dysmenorrhea can start earlier in the menstrual cycle and may last longer.

Causes of Period Pain:

1. Prostaglandins:

Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that play a role in the contraction of the uterus. Higher levels of prostaglandins can lead to more intense uterine contractions, resulting in increased pain. During the menstrual cycle, the production of prostaglandins increases, particularly in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

2. Endometriosis:

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause severe pain during menstruation.

3. Fibroids:

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain and discomfort, especially during menstruation.

4. Adenomyosis:

A medical condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, growing into the muscular wall of the uterus (Myometrium).

5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID):

PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause secondary dysmenorrhea.

6. Cervical stenosis:

In certain women, the cervix opening is sufficiently small to hinder menstrual flow, resulting in a painful buildup of pressure within the uterus.

Management and Relief Strategies:

1. Pain Medications:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation

2. Heat Therapy:

• Applying heat to the lower abdomen can help relax the muscles and alleviate cramps. Hot water bottles or heating pads are commonly used for this purpose.

3. Exercise:

• Regular physical activity can help reduce the severity and duration of period pain. Exercise promotes the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers.

4. Dietary Changes:

Some women find relief from period pain by making dietary adjustments. Stay hydrated by drinking more water and opt for herbal teas, such as chamomile. Enhance your calcium intake with nutritious options like nuts (such as almonds and chia seeds), low-fat dairy products, calcium-rich fish (such as salmon and sardines), tofu, broccoli, kale, collard greens, spinach, and bok choy. Steer clear of saturated fats like butter, cream, bacon, and potato chips. Keep salt and caffeine intake in check.

5. Relaxation Techniques:

• Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help manage stress and reduce the perception of pain.

6. Medical Treatments:

• In cases of severe period pain associated with conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, medical interventions such as hormonal therapy or surgery may be recommended.

When should you seek medical attention?

It is crucial to schedule a visit with your doctor, especially if you encounter any of the following:

• The duration of your menstrual pain extends beyond what you were accustomed to.
• You experience pain during sexual activity.
• You begin experiencing period pain when it was not a previous occurrence.
• The severity of your menstrual pain increases.
• You encounter pain between periods that resembles menstrual pain.
• You notice bleeding between periods or irregular menstrual cycles.

Conclusion:

Period pain is a common and often unavoidable part of a woman's menstrual cycle. While it can be challenging, understanding the causes and exploring various management strategies can significantly improve the overall experience. Women experiencing severe or persistent period pain should consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Periods are a natural part of life, and managing period pain effectively can empower women to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

How to get a Medical Certificate Online for "period pain" or " dysmenorrhea"?

If you need to take a day or two off for simple period pain, dysmenorrhea, or even PMDD, you can conveniently request a medical certificate online from the comfort of your couch at NextClinic. Our team of Australian-registered doctors will promptly review your request and approve it within one hour, allowing you to rest and recover quickly.

However, this service is available only when you cannot see your GP urgently. It's always advisable to check in with your regular health practitioner for issues like PMDD.

Disclaimer:

This medical blog provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your regular doctor for specific medical concerns. The content is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication and may change. While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties regarding completeness or reliability. Use the information at your own risk. Links to other websites are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily representative of any institutions.