There are many women who experience extreme pain during period. In medical terms it is called dysmenorrhea. Find out the causes and treatments for menstruation pain which can be sometimes very difficult to handle. Just scroll down…
Pain during period is very common among women. It is one of the most common menstrual period symptoms and can be observed in young girls as well as in old women. But nearly 1 in 10 observe severe or extreme pain during period which may also affect their daily activities. Period pain is also known as dysmenorrhea. Usually the pain starts one or two days before the periods start and continues two to three days after it. But some it may be observed for few hours to just one or two days. There may be many reasons behind the menstruation pain. They can be treated with the help of home remedies but in case of extreme pain you may require medical help. Keep reading to get detailed information.
What is Period Pain or Dysmenorrhea?
Period pain or menstruation pain or dysmenorrhea is referred to the lower abdominal pain and cramping during the menstruation period. Dysmenorrhea can be divided into two types: primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is usually caused in young age or till the 20s. It is cased due to the increased levels of female hormone prostaglandins, which increases at the time of menstruation cycle. Uterus becomes sensitive to its higher levels and contracts which results in extreme pain. Due to contraction, the blood flow reduces in the uterus which may also contribute to the pain. Obesity and smoking may increase this condition.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is usually observed in women which are above the age of 30. This is usually caused due to the reproductive tract disorder or problems in the uterus or other pelvic organs. It can be caused due to adhesions of the uterus, endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine displacement, sexually transmitted diseases, etc. In such conditions it is better to take medical help, as it can be critical and dangerous. Irregular periods, bleeding in between periods, pains between periods, vaginal discharge, pain during sex are some of the symptoms of secondary dysmenorrhea.
Treatment for Extreme Pain During Period
Primary dysmenorrhea can be easily treated with the help of home remedies. Whereas secondary dysmenorrhea should be treated with the help of medical treatment. Following are some of the treatments which can be helpful in both the cases.
- Hot pad may be helpful in relieving extreme pain. You can just take a hot water pad and keep it on the lower abdomen below the belly button. Do not keep it for a long time as it may burn the skin.
- Try out light massage on the lower side of your abdomen or on the pelvic area. Do it in a circular manner with your fingers.
- Water is considered to be very helpful in such conditions. Keep your body hydrated. Drink more lots of water to relieve pain.
- Eat light meal including fruits, fresh vegetables, grains, etc. and drink hot beverages.
- Regular exercises and yoga are also considered to be very effective.
- Apart from the home remedies there are many medications which are helpful in treating secondary dysmenorrhea like antidepressant, pain killers (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), birth control pills, etc. But these medications should be taken only when prescribed by the doctor.
If you are not able to get relief from the home remedies or if the pain becomes unbearable then you may require a medical treatment. If you observe vaginal discharge with foul smell, fever, severe and sudden pain then consult a doctor immediately. Doctor may ask you to undergo blood test, laparoscopy or ultrasound to diagnose the reason behind the extreme pain. Follow doctors instructions, maintain a healthy diet, do not have alcohol and caffeine as it may elevate the condition and do your proper exercises. This will help you a lot in overcoming the extreme menstrual pain.
