Have you experienced a throbbing, cramping pain in the lower abdomen during your periods that interferes with your daily activities? Often referred to as menstrual cramps, the pain is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as diarrhoea, lower back pain, headache, and nausea.

Period pain is not the same as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which often starts one to two weeks before your period starts and causes many different symptoms, including weight gain, bloating, irritability, and fatigue. PMS. Period pain, often known as dysmenorrhea, is classified into two types: primary and secondary. Each has its distinct reason; we speak with experts to delve deeper.

“Primary dysmenorrhea is the common cause of period pain brought about specifically by menstruation. Excess prostaglandins, which are substances produced by your uterus during your monthly cycle, are to be blamed for this pain. These substances cause the uterine muscles to contract and relax, resulting in cramps. The pain might begin a day or two before your menstruation. It often lasts a few days, although in some women it might last longer,” Dr. Amrita Razdan Kaul, Sr. Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Asian Hospital, Faridabad, says.

Period pain generally begins while you are younger, just after your first period. As you become older, you typically experience less discomfort. The discomfort may also improve after giving delivery.

Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, usually appears later in life. According to Dr. Kaul, endometriosis and uterine fibroids are examples of disorders that affect the uterus or other reproductive organs. "This form of discomfort frequently worsens with time. It may begin before your period and last until your period stops," she adds.

Managing Period Pain

Period pain can be reduced by hot fermentation, regular exercise, warm baths, and relaxation techniques. "The patient can try using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain-relieving medicines after consulting with a doctor and ruling out that there is no significant pathology associated with the pain in menses," Dr. Pallavi Panse, Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, says, adding that if prescribed by a doctor, pain-relieving medicines can be taken every month during periods so that the patient remains comfortable.

"NSAIDs not only relieve pain, but they also limit the quantity of prostaglandins produced by your uterus, reducing their effects. This helps to relieve cramps,” she explains. According to Dr. Panse, you can take NSAIDs when you first notice symptoms or when your period begins. You can continue taking these for many days. If you have ulcers, bleeding difficulties, or liver illness, you should avoid using NSAIDs. You should also avoid taking them if you are allergic to aspirin. If you are unsure whether or not to use NSAIDs, see your doctor.

It may also help to get adequate sleep and avoid alcohol and smoke, she says.

For many women, period discomfort is typical. However, you should consult your health care professional if NSAIDs and self-care methods don't work and the pain interferes with your life. "Medical advice is also recommended if your cramps suddenly become worse or if you are over 25 and have terrible cramps for the first time. Likewise, if you have a fever and the pain persists even when you do not have your period," Dr. Panse concludes.

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