Painful periods, known medically as dysmenorrhea
This is a common problem among women. It affects up to 80% of young girls and young women who are menstruating. This pain is caused by uterine contractions during ovulation and menstruation.
What to do ?
What to consume?
Ibuprofen, Spassifon®, Antadys®,...
What medications to relieve them? And what about natural solutions?
And what about herbal teas, essential oils, plants...?
Painful periods are called dysmenorrhea.
They can be:
Around 85% of young women aged 16 to 20 suffer from it, compared to 75% of the entire female population.
What are the symptoms of painful periods?
It is, most often on one side or both, type of tightness, spasms, cramps if not punches or even heaviness.
These pains can be pelvic pain in the lower abdomen, radiated to the abdomen, pelvis, rectum and lumbar region.
They may be accompanied by digestive problems, nausea, vomiting or headaches.
- Dysmenorrhea is defined as the presence of regular periods without bleeding.
- This term refers to the absence of blood during menstruation.
- In fact, the term itself derives from Greek, meaning "difficult flow".
- This is a disorder characterized by painful contractions of the uterus, especially during menstruation.
- There are several types of dysmenorrhea: primary, secondary and tertiary.
- Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in the absence of pregnancy, menopause or endometriosis.
- Secondary dysmenorrhea is associated with a specific disease such as fibroids, endometriosis or adenomyosis.
The causes of painful periods
Is it normal to have pain during your period?
Period pain is often caused by uterine contractions, which occur during ovulation. These contractions cause the release of prostaglandins, which increase blood flow to the cervix and uterus. This increases pressure inside the uterus and causes cramping.
If you have regular periods, you probably don't know the process that causes the pain. You just feel it every month.Painful periods occur because the uterine lining is irritated during menstruation. This irritation can come from several sources such as the presence of bacteria, foreign bodies, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, etc.
The most common cause of painful periods is the overgrowth of certain cells in the endometrial layer of the uterus. These cells produce large amounts of prostaglandin, which irritate the walls of the uterus.
Little-known causes of origin
Painful periods are very common during adolescence. They usually occur every month, although some women may have longer cycles. The pain occurs because the endometrial layer of the uterus contracts, causing cramping.
The cause of these contractions is still unknown. However, there are several theories about what might be happening inside the uterus. Some people think that contractions are caused by the release of prostaglandins, which are hormones produced by the endometrium. Others believe the contractions are triggered by changes in blood flow. Still others suggest that the contractions are linked to the presence of sperm.
There are many causes of painful periods, including hormonal imbalances, excessive weight gain, dehydration, stress, irregular eating habits, caffeine consumption, poor diet, smoking, alcohol abuse, certain medications, genetics and even psychological factors.
What medical treatments to relieve painful periods?
Medication treatments for menstrual pain
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. If you suffer from recurring pain during menstruation, it is essential to consult a doctor. Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common gynecological disorders. It affects up to 80% of women at least once in their life. It is characterized by severe cramps, mainly located around the uterus. This pain usually occurs during the second half of the menstrual cycle and lasts several days. They can vary in intensity and frequency, depending on the woman. Some women feel very intense pain, while others feel nothing.
For many women, dysmenorrhea can be treated effectively with NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. This type of medication reduces inflammation and relieves pain. However, it must be taken regularly to maintain its effectiveness. For those who find this solution ineffective, doctors recommend taking progesterone hormones. These medications stimulate the production of prostaglandins, which act directly on the uterine muscle. Progestogen hormone treatments include Lutenyl®, Femconal®, Estrace®, Loestrin®, etc.
Antispasmodic medications are also helpful in treating painful periods. These include antihistamines, antidepressants and muscle relaxants. Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, COX inhibitors, and tramadol, are also used to relieve pain.
Hormonal or surgical treatments for painful periods
Birth control pills can improve the quality of your periods and prevent pregnancy. Hormonal contraceptives are very effective and are recommended for women who want to avoid pregnancy. Certain types of birth control can also help regulate your cycle. For example, progestin-only contraceptives (pills, patches, rings, implants) delay menstruation and reduce the length of periods. This type of contraception does not protect against STIs.
If you still have heavy bleeding, you may benefit from a surgical procedure called a hysterectomy. This operation involves removing the uterus and cervix. Additionally, your doctor may recommend a cervical cap or diaphragm.
What natural treatments to relieve painful periods?
No longer have pain during periods without medication
In addition to analgesic medications to relieve pain, here are some tips for soothing your painful periods with natural treatments:
Apply a hot water bottle or warm pillow to your lower abdomen or back.
Take a hot bath to relax.
Ask your pharmacist for an antihistamine or essential oil for painful periods to apply to your stomach and which will help you feel better.
Never use them without medical advice because there are contraindications.
Get moving, play a gentle sport you enjoy, or just walk around the block.
5 natural remedies for painful periods
Period pain is one of the most common complaints among women. They can occur during menstruation or even after menopause. Painful periods can be caused by hormonal changes, stress, anxiety, depression, weight gain, poor diet, dehydration, constipation, infection, physical trauma, etc.
The best way to deal with this is to see a doctor. There are several home remedies you can try to relieve menstrual cramps naturally. Here are 10 of them:
1. Drink plenty of water: Water helps flush toxins out of the body, and is essential for maintaining good health. If you feel bloated, drink plenty of water. You can also take water tablets.
2. Eat healthy foods: Try to eat foods high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables. Fiber helps regulate intestinal transit and reduce bloating. Foods like beans, lentils, whole grains, nuts, seeds and bananas help reduce bloating.
3. Take supplements: Vitamin B6 and magnesium are helpful in relieving muscle tension and reducing cramps. Magnesium is found in almonds, spinach, broccoli, cashews and pumpkin seeds.
4. Avoid caffeine: Caffeine causes uterine contractions and increases blood flow to the uterus. This can cause cramps. So avoid coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, energy drinks, cola and alcohol.
5. Practice yoga: Yoga exercises improve digestion and circulation, while relaxing muscles and easing cramps. Do simple stretches like the cat stretch, pigeon pose, downward facing dog, and child's pose.
