Ask a doctor - What is the reason of pain in abdomen during periods?

Q. What is the reason of pain in abdomen during periods?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Seconmedic Expert

Pain in the abdomen during periods is a very common issue experienced by many women. This abdominal discomfort is known medically as dysmenorrhea and can be classified into two types: primary dysmenorrhea, which has no underlying gynecological cause, and secondary dysmenorrhea, which is caused by an underlying condition such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Primary dysmenorrhea occurs due to increased levels of prostaglandins, chemicals released from the lining of the uterus. These chemicals are released during menstruation and cause contractions in the uterus that lead to cramps in the abdomen. Additional factors that can contribute to this type of pain include diet (such as diets low in certain vitamins or minerals), lifestyle habits (such as lack of exercise), stress, depression and anxiety.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by an underlying medical condition such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease - both involve inflammation of the reproductive organs. Endometriosis occurs when tissue from inside the uterus grows outside it; this misplaced tissue thickens with time and produces hormones causing pain during menstruation due to excessive stretching. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease on other hand is caused by bacterial infections which lead to swelling resulting in abdominal pain before or during periods.

The most common symptom associated with abdominal pain before or during menstrual cycle includes cramping sensation near lower stomach area extending towards lower back region along with nausea and headaches at times . To get rid off these symptoms some simple remedies may act like good options- they include regular exercise routine , intake of food rich in omega 3 fatty acids , natural diuretics like pineapple juice etc., hot water compress over stomach area , yoga postures like shavasana etc., Herbal supplements rich source Vitamin B1 & B2 also help a lot while overcoming period-related pains . In order for long last relief it’s advisable to discuss these issues with a doctor who would help you find out exact root cause followed up suggesting proper treatment accordingly.( You might need hormonal therapies) As said prevention is better than cure so always take preventive measures against any kind health related ailments rather than waiting for actual situation hit you hard !