Most women undergo some degree of discomfort or pain during their periods. Mild cramps, lower back pain, and migraines are usually part of the menu. However, if you suffer from painful periods in The Woodlands, when the pain has started affecting your routine and hinders you from performing your duties, then it may be time to consult with your OB-GYN to rule out problems. Here are some possible causes of a painful period.
This type of menstrual pain is not an effect of any anatomical defect or condition, and it affects half of all women around the world. During menstruation, rising prostaglandin levels cause uterine hyperstimulation and blood vessel compression, further causing pain and cramping.
The endometrium is a lining that covers a woman’s uterus. Sometimes, it can be found elsewhere other than the reproductive system, and this may cause a problem. This tissue normally thickens and breaks down due to hormones throughout the normal menstrual cycle. With endometriosis, the tissue surrounding the lining gets inflamed and painful. See a doctor if you continuously suffer from heavy periods coupled with excruciating pain.
When the endometrium embeds deeper into the uterine muscle called the myometrium, menstruation can become painful. This layer of endometrium does not get dispelled ordinarily during menstruation. It causes the uterus to look and feel bruised. A classic symptom of this type of painful menstruation is pain during and after intercourse.
Painful menstruation also occurs when there are structural problems in a woman’s uterus and other parts of the reproductive system. These irregularities can cause blockage and inflammation that worsen the pain. Schedule a GYN checkup if you suspect structural issues because these conditions can also cause infertility aside from painful menstruation.
Uterine fibroids are benign lumps that grow in the uterus. Some fibroids are tiny and negligible, while others can become too big, causing more pressure on the uterine lining, large blood clots, and extremely painful menstruation.
These are five potential causes of painful periods that women may experience. If menstrual pains regularly debilitate you and prevent you from enjoying normal activities, then don’t hesitate to have your heavy periods checked by an OB-GYN.