Many women experience abdominal pain, lower back pain, and fatigue during their periods, commonly known as menstrual cramps. Besides endometriosis and uterine fibroids, what other non-pathological causes can trigger menstrual cramps? The Japanese website Peachy, based on publications by female medical experts, has compiled four main causes.
1. Poor menstrual flow
This is common in girls a few years after their first menstruation. This is because the uterus is not yet fully developed, and the cervix is too narrow, preventing menstrual blood from flowing out smoothly. At this time, the uterus contracts strongly to force the menstrual blood out. This contraction is accompanied by intense pain.
Menstrual cramps caused by this reason will usually subside as you mature, or after marriage or childbirth. If the pain is unbearable, you can consider using painkillers or traditional Chinese medicine.
2. Excessive prostaglandin secretion
Prostaglandins secreted by the endometrium can promote uterine contractions. Excessive secretion can easily cause dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation).
Many painkillers now contain ingredients that inhibit prostaglandin secretion. However, some women are resistant to painkillers, and it is recommended that these women find a suitable painkiller for themselves, just in case.
3. Physical stress
Physical stress can also worsen menstrual cramps. Women experiencing menstrual cramps should avoid behaviors that increase physical strain, such as staying in cold places where body or abdominal temperature drops, or standing for long periods. It is recommended to avoid putting too much strain on the body during menstruation and relax appropriately during this "special time."
4. Mental stress
Besides physical stress, mental stress is also a contributing factor to menstrual cramps. Many women experience increased menstrual cramps when changing jobs, transferring schools, starting boarding school, or living in a workplace or study environment that is not understanding of the physiological phenomenon of menstrual cramps.
In addition, fear of pain, anxiety, or aversion to menstruation can also cause dysmenorrhea. The first priority for dysmenorrhea caused by stress is to identify the source of the stress; understanding the cause of the stress may help alleviate symptoms.
Having learned about the four non-pathological causes of dysmenorrhea, has this information helped women who are experiencing this problem? If the pain is very severe, it is recommended to go to the gynecology department of a hospital for a specialized examination as soon as possible.
