Specialist Helena Lapa explains that timely attention can prevent complications and improve the quality of life of women suffering from this problem
In an interview on the magazine’s website Whimthe actress Fernanda Souza She commented that she had so many menstrual cramps that she was unable to log or do any other type of work. The gynecologist Elena Lapa (CRM-SP 221.722 and RQE 106.763) explains that menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea, are pain located in the lower part of the abdomen that occurs before or during menstrual flow, caused by contractions of the uterus to expel the uterine lining ( endometrium), influenced by the release of substances called prostaglandins, involved in inflammation and pain.
According to the doctor, when the levels of these substances are high, the pain can be more intense. During the luteal phase (before menstruation), progesterone levels decrease, triggering the onset of endometrial leakage, causing inflammation and tenderness in the pelvic region. Menstrual cramps can be classified as:
Primary: Not associated with any underlying condition. It is common in adolescents and young women and may improve with age and lifestyle changes.
Secondary: Is related to underlying gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Symptoms
Abdominal or pelvic pain, usually cramping, that may radiate to the back and thighs; feeling of heaviness in the pelvis, gas distension; nausea and vomiting; heachache; diarrhea or constipation; tiredness, malaise; leg pain; Irritability or mood changes (often associated with premenstrual tension) are among the symptoms of the problem.
Helena also says that menstrual cramps are a common and normal symptom for many women, especially in the early days of menstruation. However, if it is very intense or accompanied by other serious symptoms, it could be a sign of conditions that require further medical attention. “Normally, the pain begins one to two days before the start of menstruation or the first day of menstrual flow and can last from one to three days, but can vary depending on the woman’s body and associated conditions. In milder cases , the pain can last only a few hours, while in more intense situations it can last the entire period”, he emphasizes.
Some women feel more pain
According to the specialist, the intensity of cramps can vary from woman to woman and from one cycle to another. Situations such as higher levels of prostaglandins, individual sensitivity to pain, presence of concomitant diseases, as well as stress and emotional factors, can predispose to greater pain. The doctor emphasizes that lifestyle habits such as smoking, alcohol abuse, drugs, sedentary lifestyle, consumption of excess calories, sweets and processed foods can also negatively affect the condition.
Women should worry about menstrual cramps when they present unusual characteristics or affect their quality of life and routine. Some situations that deserve attention include intense, disabling colic that does not improve with common painkillers or home measures, such as hot compresses; prolonged duration, which persists for several days after the end of menstruation or occurs continuously throughout the menstrual cycle; when sudden cramps appear in women who have never had them or who only felt mild pain.
The gynecologist reminds us that it is essential to pay attention when other symptoms are associated with colic, such as very heavy or irregular menstrual flow; bleeding between menstrual cycles; fever or chills; pain during or after sexual intercourse; nausea, vomiting or intense changes in intestinal functioning (severe diarrhea or constipation).
Impacts on women’s lives
According to the doctor, pain can lead to the cancellation of social commitments, affecting relationships and generating a feeling of isolation. When colic is recurrent and intense, it can lead to a sense of inability and affect the woman’s self-esteem. She may feel that her life is conditioned by the menstrual cycle, generating suffering and psychological limitations.
Disabling pain: In case of intense cramps, the woman may have difficulty carrying out basic tasks, working or studying. Prolonged pain can lead to physical and mental fatigue.
Emotional and psychological changes: Chronic pain can cause irritability, anxiety and even depression in some women. The feeling of losing control over your body during your period can lead to frustration.
Interference with sleep: Intense colic can make it difficult to rest, leading to fatigue and reducing your energy for the day.
Associated symptoms: nausea, diarrhea, headaches and other common ailments can increase suffering and make concentration and productivity difficult, as well as causing damage to social and intimate life.
Treatment and relief
Anti-inflammatories: Medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac or mefenamic acid help reduce pain and inflammation. Common analgesics, such as dipyrone and paracetamol, usually do not have the same effect as anti-inflammatories in controlling pain.
Non-pharmacological methods: application of hot compresses on the abdomen, physical exercises (yoga, walking, pilates) and relaxation techniques. Balanced diet (rich in omega-3, magnesium and vitamin E), also avoiding caffeine and stimulants. Natural herbal teas with calming properties, such as chamomile or ginger, can help.
Hormonal contraceptives: These can reduce or eliminate pain by regulating hormones, especially when there is another underlying gynecological cause, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, ovarian cysts, PID, and fibroids.
Medical consultation: it is essential to prevent colic from persistently compromising the quality of life and to treat concomitant pathologies, when present. Physical and imaging tests (such as ultrasound) may be needed to investigate secondary causes and initiate appropriate treatment.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
