During menstruation, the uterus contracts to help shed the inner lining (endometrium). Hormone-like substances (prostaglandins), which usually cause pain and inflammation, take an active part in this. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more severe menstrual cramps and, as a result, menstrual pain.
How to help? In such cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective
Also, menstrual pains can be associated with:
- endometriosis and/or adenomyosis (growth of the endometrium (mucous membrane) outside the uterine cavity)
- uterine myoma (fibroids)
- anomalies of uterine development
- inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs
- stenosis of the cervical canal – narrowing or deformation of the opening (orifice) of the cervix
- endocrine disorders (low level of progesterone, high level of testosterone in the blood, hyperprolactinemia).
How to find out? Get examined by a gynecologist. Chair examination, STD test, blood tests to determine hormones, ultrasound of the pelvic organs help determine the diagnosis and method of treatment.
Risk factors for dysmenorrhea:
- Age younger than 30 years
- Early menarche is the onset of menstruation at the age of 11 or earlier
- Very heavy menstruation (menorrhagia)
- Irregular long-term menstrual bleeding
- Dysmenorrhea in the family history
- Smoking
Severe menstrual pain can significantly affect your psycho-emotional state, interfere with your life or daily activities. In addition, some conditions can have complications. For example, endometriosis can cause fertility problems, fibroids – significant bleeding and/or anemic state, inflammatory diseases – the formation of adhesions in the fallopian tubes, which increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
If the usual NSAID therapy does not help or the intensity of pain does not decrease over time, but only increases, it is necessary to consult an experienced gynecologist-endocrinologist who will help identify the cause of painful menstruation and prescribe treatment.