Menstrual cramps
Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) are characterized by throbbing or spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen. Many women experience menstrual cramps both during and before menstruation
For some women, the condition is mild and does not cause severe discomfort However, in some patients, menstrual cramps may be so severe that they interfere with daily activities every month.
In some cases, there are obvious causes of menstrual cramps, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Treating the underlying cause reduces the pain Menstrual cramps that are not caused by any disease tend to ease over time with age or after a woman gives birth.
During the menstrual period, the uterus contracts to expel its lining (the endometrium). Hormone-like substances (prostaglandins) that cause pain and inflammation cause uterine muscle contractions. An excess of prostaglandins is associated with more severe menstrual cramps
Strong contractions may constrict the blood vessels feeding the uterus The resulting pain is similar to the chest pain that develops when the blood vessels that feed the heart are narrowed
Menstrual cramps are also caused by:
- Endometriosis It is a painful condition in which the lining of the uterus protrudes outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or pelvic lining.
- Uterine fibroids These benign growths in the uterine wall also cause pain
- Adenomyosis This condition develops when endometrial glands become embedded in the muscle of the uterus
- Pelvic inflammatory disease The disease is caused by an infection of the female reproductive organ caused by a sexually transmitted bacterium.
- Narrowing of the cervix In some women, the entrance to the cervix is so narrow that it prevents the flow of menstrual blood, causing painful pressure on the uterus.
Symptoms of Menstrual Cramps:
- Bursting or cramp-like pain in the lower abdomen that may be intense
- Dull, constant pain
- Pain that radiates to the lower back and thigh
Some women also experience:
- Nausea However, if your seizures are preventing you from going about your normal life every month, your symptoms are getting worse, or you are over 25 and have recently developed seizures, see your doctor.
