Periods can hurt so much primarily due to a condition called dysmenorrhea, which is characterized by painful menstrual cramps. The pain is mainly caused by high levels of prostaglandins, hormone-like chemicals that cause the muscles of the uterus to contract and tighten. These contractions help shed the uterine lining during a period but can reduce blood flow to the uterus temporarily, causing pain and cramping. There are two types of dysmenorrhea:
- Primary dysmenorrhea: This is the most common and occurs without an underlying health condition. It usually starts from the first periods or shortly after, with pain often felt as cramping in the lower abdomen, lower back, and thighs.
- Secondary dysmenorrhea: This occurs due to an underlying medical condition affecting the uterus or reproductive organs that causes pain, such as endometriosis (uterine lining tissue growing outside the uterus), fibroids (non-cancerous growths), adenomyosis (uterine lining growing into the muscle wall), or pelvic inflammatory disease (infection).
Other factors increasing the likelihood of painful periods include starting periods at a young age, having heavy or long periods, family history, smoking, being very underweight or overweight, and emotional stress. If the pain is severe, worsens over time, or impacts daily functioning, it may be a sign of secondary dysmenorrhea, and seeing a healthcare provider is recommended to identify and treat any underlying causes. Treatment options vary based on the cause but can include pain relievers, hormonal contraception, or other medical interventions if necessary.
