Period Pain (PMS)

Period Pain (PMS)

Dysmenorrhoea, commonly known as period pain, is painful menstruation. It is one of the most common complaints we hear about in our practice.

It is characterised by pelvic pain, which can be described as either spasmodic (recurrent) or congestive. The pain can vary in intensity and frequency and may present in a wave-like fashion or be constant. It can also radiate to the lower legs.

Additional symptoms may present with period pain including backache, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation.

What are the Causes of Period Pain?

Dysmenorrhoea falls into two categories, primary and secondary.

Primary dysmenorrhoea is period pain that is not associated with the underlying pathology. The pain typically begins 12-24 hours before menstruation and usually eases within 48-72 hours of bleeding. Primary dysmenorrhoea usually occurs in younger women and is caused by an overproduction of inflammatory prostaglandins (PGs). PGs are inflammatory mediators involved in initiating period pain.

Secondary dysmenorrhoea is associated with an underlying condition. The pain can occur during different stages of the menstrual cycle other than menstruation and can be either relieved or aggravated by menstruation.

Which Conditions Present with Period Pain?

As mentioned above, secondary dysmenorrhoea is associated with specific organic conditions that cause menstrual pain. Such conditions include endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, autoimmune disease, bladder inflammation, and irritable bowel syndrome.

How We Treat Period Pain

We address the cause of dysmenorrhoea and therefore work towards preventing the intensity of the problem. We also alleviate symptomatic pain by decreasing the overproduction of PGs.

What Makes Menstrual Pain Worse?

  • Exposure to cold
  • Certain foods and drinks in the diet
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Toxicity

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

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