Over half of women who menstruate experience period pain for around one to three days each month. While many will also experience headaches and other discomforts during this time, the term “period pain” is specifically used in relation to the aches caused by menstrual cramping. As the uterus contracts and sheds its lining, this can trigger an aching sensation in the upper thighs, lower back and stomach. The level of discomfort can vary from person to person, but chronic period pain is known as dysmenorrhea.1
Different Types of Period Pain
Period pain can sometimes come in intense spasms, while at other times it may be a dull, consistent ache. Higher levels of hormone-like “prostaglandins” are associated with more severe menstrual cramping and discomfort. However, medical professionals and doctors have defined two distinct types of period pain for further clarification:
1. Primary Dysmenorrhoea
This is the most common type of period pain and typically starts from your first period, or in the years shortly after. Women with primary dysmenorrhoea tend to have increased levels of prostaglandins, which makes the contractions and resulting discomfort stronger. However, exactly why some women have higher or lower levels of prostaglandins is not known. With this type of period pain there is also no underlying condition causing the discomfort and there is a noticeable pattern. It usually lasts for one to three days, but can be the most severe during the first or second day. The pain is usually located in the lower abdomen, but can also affect the lower back and thighs. It’s often described as a constant ache or a cramping, gripping pain.2
2. Secondary Dysmenorrhoea
Essentially secondary dysmenorrhoea is when the period pain is a symptom of a larger issue, and may involve the treatment of underlying conditions. This kind of pain and discomfort could be caused by a reproductive disorder, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or even fibroids.3
What helps with period pain?
Pain, heavy bleeding or other factors regarding your period that gets in the way of you going about your life should not be suffered in silence. Period pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter painkillers like Cipladon effervescent paracetamol tablets, the oral contraceptive pill, or other means. These include acupuncture, acupressure, and nerve stimulation therapies may be useful for treating painful periods too. Physical therapy that eases trigger points also may help with pain management.4 However, if these remedies are not helping your period pain, seek advice from a health practitioner immediately.
Disclaimer: The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.
Sources:
- Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods. Acog.org [online] Available at: <https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods/> (01/12/2020).
- What is Primary Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods. Acog.org [online] Available at: <https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods/> (01/12/2020).
- What is Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods. Acog.org [online] Available at: <https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods/> (01/12/2020).
- What alternative treatments can be used to ease period pains>? Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods. Acog.org [online] Available at: <https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods/> (01/12/2020).