What are Menstrual cramps?
Menstrual cramps are painful sensations that affect many women before and during a menstrual period. The pain, also known as dysmenorrhea or period pains, ranges from dull and annoying to severe and extreme. Menstrual cramps tend to begin after ovulation when an egg is released from the ovaries and travels down the fallopian tube.
Where and when do menstrual cramps happen?
Pain occurs in the lower abdomen and lower back. It usually begins 1 to 2 days before menstruation and lasts from 2 to 4 days. Pain that is only associated with the process of menstruation is known as primary dysmenorrhea. If the cramping pain is due to an identifiable medical problem such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease, it is called secondary dysmenorrhea.
How can I handle cramps?
If you have mild menstrual cramps, take aspirin or another pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. For best relief, you must take these medications as soon as bleeding or cramping starts.
Heat can also help. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or tummy. Taking a warm bath may also provide some relief.
You should also:
Rest when needed.
Avoid foods that contain caffeine and salt.
Not use tobacco or drink alcohol.
Massage your lower back and abdomen.
Women who exercise regularly often have less menstrual pain. To help prevent cramps, make exercise a part of your weekly routine.
If these steps do not relieve pain, tell your doctor, in case you need medicines such as:
Ibuprofen (higher dose than is available over the counter) or other prescription pain relievers
Oral contraceptives (Women taking birth control pills have less menstrual pain.)
IUDs can help to reduce the symptoms of menstrual cramps.
When should I Call a Doctor?
If you have severe or unusual menstrual cramps or cramping that lasts for more than 2 or 3 days, tell your doctor. Menstrual cramps, whatever the cause, can be treated, so it’s important to get checked.
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and menstrual cycles. You’ll get a pelvic exam, in which your doctor will use a tool called a speculum to see into your vagina and cervix. She may take a small sample of vaginal fluid for testing, and use her fingers to check your uterus and ovaries for anything that doesn’t feel normal.
If it turns out that your cramps aren’t due to your period, you might need other tests to find the right treatment.
References
- WebMD. Menstrual cramps. Accessed on 7th October 2018.