What causes menstrual pain?

Menstrual pain, which may also be known as dysmenorrhea, is produced as a result of contractions of the uterus to eliminate the lining of the uterus. From the beginning of the menstrual cycle, the uterus contracts and relaxes to expel menstrual blood. 

If these contractions are too strong, they may compress the blood vessels near the uterus, limiting blood flow and causing menstrual pain.

It is important to note that hormones can also play a role in menstrual pain.

An increase in prostaglandins (a hormone produced in the uterus responsible for regulating inflammation, smooth muscle contraction, and pain response) can cause the muscles of the uterus to contract more forcefully, causing pain. Factors such as stress, irritable bowel syndrome, and endometriosis can be the origin of menstrual pain.

 

Factors contributing to menstrual pain

• Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus is outside the uterus, causing pain both during and outside of menstruation.

• Uterine fibroids

Fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the uterus and can cause prolonged, severe menstrual pain.

• Adenomyosis

A condition in which the lining of the uterus becomes embedded in the muscle wall causing severe menstrual pain.

• Vaginal Infections

Infections in the reproductive organs can also cause menstrual pain.

• Family history

In case your mother or any female member of your family has experienced severe menstrual pain, there is a possibility that this condition has been inherited.

• Ectopic pregnancy

Severe menstrual pain, similar to cramps, might be a sign of a serious problem that requires immediate intervention, such as an ectopic pregnancy.

The use of excessively tight outerwear and underwear can cause an increase in the symptoms caused by any of the aforementioned pathologies, so it is recommended to use clothes that do not fit excessively to the body. 

In the Ecowoman store, you can find a variety of menstrual panties or thongs that you can use in your day-to-day and thanks to its design and materials, you will reduce the pressure exerted by conventional underwear, allowing you to reduce menstrual pain significantly.

Recommended treatments to relieve menstrual pain

• Analgesics such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve menstrual pain.
• Hormonal therapy, such as oral contraceptives, helps regulate pain-causing hormones.
• Relaxation techniques such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation help reduce stress and muscle tension.
• Heat pads reduce menstrual cramps and pain.
• Acupuncture stimulates pressure points in the body.

There are a variety of treatments that can be used if you suffer from constant menstrual pain. However, it is important to keep in mind that each person is different and may require a different course of treatment, so it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best individual option for each woman with menstrual pain and to follow dosage instructions closely. 

Likewise, it is essential to keep a symptomatologic record to identify any patterns or changes in symptoms.