Why are periods painful? Causes of painful periods. Video: How to relieve painful periods

There are many questions associated with the topic of menstruation. They occur differently for everyone: the color of the discharge, the degree of pain, the presence or absence of other symptoms. Many women dream of getting rid of pain during and after their periods. Fortunately, pharmacies today offer a wide selection of painkillers. Therefore, you can always choose a drug to reduce or relieve pain.

Why do periods become very painful?

To choose the optimal treatment tactics for algomenorrhea, you should understand the reasons for its occurrence.

Primary algomenorrhea observed in young girls during their formation menstrual cycle(the first three years after the onset of menstruation) or in women who have not given birth after thirty years. It may be a sign:

  • disturbances in the functioning of the sympathetic nervous system and increased levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the blood. This violation is characterized not only
  • painful periods, but frequent constipation, rapid heartbeat, sleep disturbances, circulatory failure in the upper and lower extremities, increased temperature before the onset of menstruation.
  • tuberculosis of the genital organs. This pathology is characterized by painful periods, accompanied by menstrual irregularities, underdevelopment of the mammary glands, the manifestation of inflammatory processes in the appendages, and a seasonal increase in manifestations.
  • magnesium deficiency in the body. Such algomenorrhea is accompanied by regular stool retention, aching pain in the intestines and symptoms characteristic of myopia.
  • psycho-neurological disorders. This condition causes a distorted acceptance of pain. It is not combined with objective signs of pathology in the female reproductive system.
  • congenital anomalies of development and location of the genital organs. Most often, such conditions are the cause of obstructed outflow of menstrual discharge, which stimulates additional contractions of the uterus.

Why does it occur

The following factors can trigger the development of primary algomenorrhea:

  • a congenital disorder of connective tissue growth that is caused by magnesium deficiency. This disease has a dangerous complication in the form of a violation of the composition of cartilage tissue, which leads to improper formation of joints, lengthening of the limbs, flat feet and scoliosis. Myopia, problems with the digestive system and varicose veins may occur;
  • genital tuberculosis;
  • nervous and mental disorder;
  • congenital uterine anomalies (bicornus, malposition or underdevelopment).

If the curvature of the uterus arose during puberty due to improper development or excessive stress, then there is a high probability that painful periods will no longer bother the girl after childbirth. If the pathology is congenital, then childbirth will not correct the situation; only a qualified specialist should treat the disease.

Secondary algomenorrhea observed in women with a history of childbirth, and is caused by reasons that need correction and may indicate:

  • adhesive process in the pelvis that occurs after inflammatory diseases of the genital organs.
  • tumor changes in the uterus and appendages, which impede the natural outflow of secretions, increasing pain during menstruation.
  • endometriosis, the spread of endometrial cells in places not typical for it. With the arrival of menstruation, these cells are rejected, as from the uterine cavity, from all organs where they have become established. Thus causing additional pain.
  • cicatricial changes in the uterus due to numerous interventions in the uterine cavity.
  • violation of the integrity of the uterine ligaments during delivery.
  • long-term use of intrauterine contraceptives.

There are three degrees of intensity of algodismenorrhea: mild, moderate and severe.

Causes of secondary algomenorrhea Description
Eating disorders Often the disease develops in women who follow strict diets and try to lose weight through fasting, which leads to anorexia or bulimia.
Consequences of surgery or chronic illnesses One of the main causes of painful periods is pathology of tissue structures, scar formation, soldering after inflammation
Tumors of the uterus Painful and unusual menstruation may be the only symptom of pathology. The tumor compresses the vessels and nerves located in the uterus. Its shape is disrupted, and menstrual blood stagnates. Muscle elasticity is lost and swelling occurs. Contractions can be painful; as the tumor grows, the symptoms intensify
Endometriosis This is a disease associated with endometrial hyperplasia and its spread to other organs. The processes of the cycle are shifted, menstruation becomes painful and prolonged. If the ovaries and other pelvic organs are involved in the process, hormonal disorders develop
Dysplasia, erosion and leukoplakia Diseases associated with damage to the epithelial cells of the cervix are characterized by impaired ability to stretch, changes in shape and decreased contractility of the uterus
Disruption of hormone production The condition is caused by taking hormonal drugs, disruption of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland or ovaries
Metabolic disorders They can cause pathologies associated with metabolic disorders, such as sudden weight changes, excessive obesity, diabetes mellitus

Statistics

70% of women of reproductive age face the problem of painful periods, but only 10% of them complain of unbearable cramp-like pain during their menstrual periods. Statistics say that pain syndrome is complemented by other symptoms:

  • 17% of women experience fainting due to pain;
  • 23% of the fair sex suffer from dizziness and another 13% from headaches;
  • in 84% of cases vomiting occurs;
  • 79% of women complain of diarrhea.

Source: https://ginekola.ru

Severity of pain during menstruation

Often PMS symptoms cause poor health. If your stomach hurts during menstruation, you may need to take medication.

The discomfort experienced during menstrual periods can be pulling, tingling and spastic in nature. Usually it makes itself felt a few days before the start of menstruation. For abdominal pain during menstruation, painkillers are often taken.

Depending on the severity of the pain syndrome, there are 3 degrees of menstrual discomfort:

  1. Weak. The pain that occurs in the lower abdomen is not strong and pronounced. It does not interfere with the usual flow of life.
  2. Average. The intensity of the nagging pain increases. You may feel lightheaded and dizzy. Body temperature drops slightly. There is instability in the psycho-emotional state.
  3. Strong. The pain spreads throughout the body. There is a need to take period pills. Symptoms such as vomiting, headache, fever and weakness may occur. This is the reason for the depressed state of the woman.

The systematic occurrence of such unpleasant symptoms as nausea, vomiting, severe pain felt in different parts of the body may indicate gynecological diseases.

Diagnosis and treatment of pain during menstruation

Many women who suffer from increased pain during menstruation consider this to be harmless and make do with taking antispasmodic and analgesic tablets, in the hope that after pregnancy and childbirth everything will work out on its own.

Indeed, a single dose of such drugs, adherence to a plant-based diet, normalization of work and rest, maintaining physical fitness through regular exercises to strengthen the abdominal and pelvic muscles, applying heat to the abdominal area, stopping smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages, preventing hypothermia, avoiding stressful situations - all these measures can significantly reduce pain during periods of mild to moderate severity, but will not remove the causes of their occurrence.

To help the gynecologist select diagnostic methods, a woman complaining of excessive painful menstruation should keep a diary of observations of the menstrual cycle. Where indicators such as cycle duration, duration of bleeding, its intensity, as well as accompanying symptoms will be noted.

To find out the cause of severe pain during menstruation, the doctor at the first stage must conduct an initial gynecological examination and an intracavitary ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs. This will reveal the volumetric formations of these organs or their abnormal location. General clinical parameters of blood and urine are not very informative in this case, but may indicate inflammatory processes. The laparoscopic method is used for diagnostic purposes in cases of suspected rupture of the uterine ligaments or varicose veins of the small pelvis.

It is mandatory to carry out a cytological examination of cells from the surface of the cervix and cervical canal, colposcopy, if necessary, a biopsy from areas suspicious for cancer, curettage of the uterine cavity, and analysis of the amount of hormones. It may be necessary to involve other specialists (endocrinologist, neurologist) in the treatment.

Treatment of algodismenorrhea includes pain relief and treatment of the disease that caused it. It can be very difficult to determine the cause of primary algodismenorrhea, so therapy for painful periods of this type is reduced to taking antispasmodic drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory substances and analgesics in the form of tablets or suppositories. A good analgesic effect is achieved using physiotherapeutic methods: acupuncture, electrophoresis. Taking sedatives will enhance their effect. In the absence of inflammatory diseases of the genital area, intramuscular injections of progesterone are prescribed, which helps relax the muscles of the uterus. If a woman is sexually active, you can consider prescribing hormonal contraceptives, which suppress ovulation and weaken uterine contractions. Surgical treatment is considered for congenital anomalies of the female genital organs.

Treatment of secondary algodismenorrhea much more often includes surgical methods. Surgical intervention is indicated for adhesions, cicatricial changes in the uterus, and neoplasms. Priority is given to laparoscopic and organ-preserving operations.

If pain occurs during menstruation, Paracetamol tablets can only be taken 3 times, one tablet per day.

The strength of the effects of pills for pain during menstruation directly depends on the chemical composition of the drugs. Painkillers in capsule form are divided into groups.

Antispasmodics

The principle of action of painkillers in the form of tablets is based on the elimination of spasm and pain. The speed of exposure directly depends on the “generation” to which the chemical composition of the capsules belongs. The best painkillers for menstruation in this category are recognized:

Papaverine

The regimen for taking the painkiller is described in detail in the instructions. In most cases, it is recommended to take 1 tablet 3 times a day. The active components of this powerful drug help eliminate tone in muscle tissue. The pain does not go away completely after taking the pill, but it becomes barely noticeable, and severe cramps disappear.

Buscopan

Tablet regimen: in most cases, the therapist prescribes one or two tablets 5 times a day. The complex of painkiller components was created specifically to relieve tone and eliminate colic and pain that appear in the lower abdomen. Buscopan is recognized as one of the safest antispasmodic drugs during menstruation, because the tablets are absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract in minimal quantities, which means that the harmful effects on the organs of the digestive system are minimal.

Drotaverine

The dosage regimen is identical to Buscopan. Due to their dilating effect on blood vessels, the tablets are recommended for relieving not only menstrual pain, but also for eliminating discomfort in postpartum period and during pregnancy. The drug has the longest lasting effect and is able to relieve pain in the shortest possible time.

No-shpa

One of the most loved pills by women for pain during menstruation. By chemical composition the medicine is an analogue of Drotaverine, but there are no side effects during administration. Experts say that Noshpa can be taken up to 6 tablets per day.

Dosage of antispasmodics.

They are used alone or in combination with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if the latter are insufficiently effective. For example:
Papaverine tablets - 1 tablet 3-5 times a day.
No-shpa tablets - 1-2 tablets 2-3 times a day.
Halidor tablets - 1 tablet 3 times a day.
Buscopan tablets - 1-2 tablets 3-5 times a day.
Drotaverine tablets - 1-2 tablets 2-3 times a day. The maximum daily dose is 240 mg.

Duration of treatment: up to 2 days or until pain disappears.

Antispasmodics are contraindicated:
with severe renal failure;
with severe liver failure;
with severe heart failure;
with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
with arterial hypotension (due to the risk of collapse);
for glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure), except for drotaverine.

Analgesics

They are distinguished by their ability to instantly relieve pain. Let's look at the list of the most popular painkillers for menstruation from a number of analgesics. These include:

  • Spazmalgin;
  • Novalgin;
  • Baralgin;
  • Analgin;
  • Minalgin;
  • Peretin.

Due to the complex effect on all body systems, doctors do not recommend taking analgesic drugs more than once a day.

Analgesics can also help in the fight against aching and nagging premenstrual pain, as well as eliminate inflammatory processes in the muscles.

Nonsteroidal tablets for pain during PMS

These painkillers not only relieve pain, but also have an anti-inflammatory effect. Most often, experts prescribe non-steroidal tablets in combination with antispasmodics. These pills for menstrual pain are not only effective, but also affordable and low in price. Let's consider the most common non-steroidal drugs:

Aspirin

The tablets have a cumulative property and smoothly relieve pain. Therapists prescribe 2 tablets 4 times a day. On average, the price category of a medicine varies from 80 rubles.

Paracetamol

Ibuprofen

The frequency of taking tablets should not exceed 6 times a day. The cost of the drug is 15 rubles. for 20 tablets.

Ketolong

Based on the reviews and comments of women who have resorted to using these remedies, the medications, although inexpensive, do an excellent job with both pain and cramps during menstruation.

In addition to pills, women use pain-relieving injections, menstrual pain patches, and rectal suppositories to relieve pain and cramps. Let's look at some of them.

Dosage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

They have a pronounced analgesic effect. Due to their special mechanism of action, drugs in this group can be recommended 2-4 days before the expected menstruation. In this case, there will be no unpleasant sensations, or they will be minor. So, from this group the following can be appointed:

Aspirin tablets - maximum single dose is 2 tablets, but not more than 6 tablets 3-4 times a day.
Paracetamol tablets - the maximum single dose is 2 tablets, but not more than 8 tablets 3-4 times a day.
Ibuprofen tablets - maximum single dose is 2 tablets, but not more than 6 tablets 3-4 times a day.
Naproxen tablets - maximum single dose is 2 tablets, but not more than 4 tablets 2 times a day.
Diclofenac tablets - maximum single dose is 1 tablet, but not more than 3 tablets 3 times a day. Can be used in the form of rectal suppositories: 1 suppository, 1-2 times a day.
Indomethacin tablets - maximum single dose is 1 tablet, but not more than 3 tablets 3 times a day. Can be used in the form of rectal suppositories: 1 suppository, 1-2 times a day.
Piroxicam tablets - maximum single dose is 1 tablet, but not more than 3 tablets 3 times a day. Can be used in the form of rectal suppositories: 1 suppository, 1-2 times a day.
Ketoprofen tablets - maximum single dose is 2 tablets, but not more than 6 tablets 3-4 times a day.

All drugs in this group must be taken after meals with plenty of water (not milk, juice or alcoholic beverages). The effect develops 0.5-2 hours after administration, the maximum analgesic effect is after 4 hours. Duration of treatment: up to 4 days or until pain disappears.

Pain-relieving suppositories during menstruation

The effect of pain-relieving suppositories during menstruation is aimed at instantly relieving pain. Unlike tablets, the active substances of this dosage form immediately enter the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

Experts note that the use of pain-relieving suppositories rectally or vaginally reduces the risk of allergic reactions and completely eliminates the negative effects of analgesics on the liver and kidneys.

Many women prefer candles due to the absence of the unpleasant, bitter taste inherent in tablets. One of the advantages of this form is the ability to carry out the procedure independently.

Painkilling injections are similar in terms of the speed at which the active components enter the bloodstream and the safety of use, but, unlike suppositories, they require outside help and are therefore not so common.

The most popular among pain-relieving suppositories for rectal or vaginal use are:

  • Paracetamol;
  • Papaverine;
  • Naproxen;
  • Indomethacin;
  • Ketoprofen;
  • Tylenol.

It is worth noting that pain-relieving suppositories used during menstruation have a number of contraindications. Before use, you must consult your doctor!

Pain relief patches during menstruation

Patches for menstrual pain belong to the category of homeopathic remedies with an external spectrum of effects. The operating principle is based on a warming effect that reduces the severity of pain and spasm. Thanks to the plant extracts included in the composition, these products have a relaxing effect on the muscle muscles, enveloping the problem area with a “warm trail”. In fact, the product is an improved analogue of a heating pad that can be used anytime and anywhere. In most cases, women use pain patches in conjunction with taking analgesics.

The most popular among the fair sex is Frauplast thermal plaster. The price of a homeopathic remedy will be about 120 rubles. Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Pain-relieving injections during menstruation

The advantage of using analgesics in the form of injections is the rapid impact of the active components on pain and the absence of a negative effect on internal organs. As practice shows, this “ambulance” requires outside help, which means it cannot be used at any time and in any place.

In most cases, an injection is given as a last resort if the pain cannot be relieved either with tablets, suppositories, or decoctions or patches. Experts say that in case of strong, repeated cramps during menstruation, it is necessary to administer injections:

  • Analgina;
  • Baralgina;
  • Lidocaine;
  • Novocaine;
  • Diclofenac;
  • Mydocalma;
  • Ketonala;
  • Ibuprofen.

Self-prescription of this dosage form or arbitrary dose adjustment is not allowed! Painkilling injections, regardless of the “power” of the active ingredients, must be given under the strict supervision of the attending physician!

List of the most popular pills for menstrual pain

Studying ways to combat menstrual pain, one can come to the conclusion that the most popular means of combating the disease are capsules with antispasmodic and analgesic effects. You can buy medications at any pharmacy. A prescription is not required for these products.

List of popular pills for menstrual pain:

  • Papaverine;
  • Nurofen;
  • Ketonal;
  • Tempalgin;
  • Ketanov;
  • Solpadeine;
  • Spasmalgon;
  • Buscopan;
  • Combispasm;
  • Novalgin;
  • Menalgin;
  • Nise;
  • No-Shpa.

Remember that combining painkillers in the form of tablets, injections, suppositories or patches with alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited!

A woman’s body undergoes monthly processes related to the functioning of the reproductive organs. If everything is in order with your health, then menstruation is a normal physiological phenomenon, which, although inevitable, does not cause much trouble. But some women tremblingly await the onset of the next torture in the form of painful periods, when all their strength and attention are focused on overcoming this condition, it is impossible to think about work or family matters. Such periods are a pathology that requires treatment.

Content:

Algomenorrhea and its types

Algomenorrhea (painful menstruation) is a disorder that is associated with unusually severe abdominal pain during menstruation. Menstruation can become painful from the very beginning of its appearance in a girl. This condition sometimes bothers a woman until the onset of menopause.

Painful sensations in the lower abdomen and lower back during menstruation occur in every woman. The pain is associated with contractions of the uterus, which rejects dead mucous membrane. However, the strength of the sensations depends on the individual characteristics of the body, such as the location and shape of the uterus, state of health, and sensitivity to pain.

It is considered normal if painful sensations do not cause a woman to suffer, menstruation causes only mild discomfort, which goes away after 2-3 days. A pathology requiring treatment is unbearable pain during menstruation, which makes a woman unable to work, and she cannot do without painkillers. In addition to painful periods, she has signs of other cycle disorders and symptoms of related ailments.

Symptoms that occur with painful menstruation

In addition to abdominal pain, abnormal periods also cause:

  • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
  • Strong headache;
  • autonomic disorders (excessive sweating, fever, dizziness, fainting);
  • surges in blood pressure, rapid pulse or cardiac arrhythmia;
  • weakness, pain in muscles and joints.

There may be irregularities in the regularity of menstruation and an increase in their duration. Blood discharge may become too intense or, conversely, scanty. It is possible to experience spotting, bloody leucorrhoea between menstruation.

Painful sensations often occur before the start of menstruation (1-2 days) and disappear only with their end. The pain can be constant or similar to contractions, pulling, cutting, aching.

Degrees of pain

There are 3 degrees of severity of painful periods.

Mild degree characterized by short-lived and tolerable painful sensations.

Average degree manifests itself not only by painful sensations in the abdomen and back, but also by increased urination, chills, and neuropsychic disorders (increased irritability, depression, intolerance to bright light, strong odors and loud sounds).

Severe degree associated with very severe pain, cardiac dysfunction, increased body temperature, vomiting, diarrhea, general weakness, and loss of consciousness.

Depending on the cause of painful menstruation, two types of algomenorrhea are distinguished: primary and secondary.

Video: Symptoms of painful periods, what to do if they occur

Primary algomenorrhea

This is the name for painful periods that are not associated with diseases or damage to the genital organs. Most often it occurs in adolescents within 3 years after the onset of puberty. At this time, dramatic changes in the composition of hormones occur in the body.

Depending on the type of hormone, an increase in the level of which leads to pain, two types of primary algomenorrhea are distinguished:

  1. Adrenergic (increased adrenaline content in the blood). This type is characterized by symptoms such as fever, increased heart rate, severe headache, pallor, hiccups, bloating, and indigestion in the form of constipation.
  2. Parasympathetic (increased serotonin content in the spinal cord). In this case, painful symptoms such as a decrease in heart rate, decreased body temperature, diarrhea, swelling of the face and limbs, and weight gain occur.

Types of pathology

Considering the cause of painful periods, several types of primary pathology are distinguished: spasmogenic, psychogenic and essential.

Spasmogenic algomenorrhea. The main cause of pain is spasmodic contractions of the uterine muscles.

Psychogenic. Pain arises from fear of symptoms experienced once and leaving an indelible mark on the memory.

Essential. This is a disease caused by a decrease in the threshold of sensitivity to pain due to disruption of the centers of the brain. Moreover, even a slight impact on the nerve endings causes severe pain.

Causes of painful menstruation

The causes of the primary disease are:

  1. A congenital disorder of the development of connective tissue in the body due to a lack of magnesium. This disease is dangerous because it leads to disruption of the composition of cartilage tissue. Incorrect formation of joints occurs, limbs lengthen, flat feet and scoliosis occur. Myopia, indigestion, and varicose veins are also common.
  2. Tuberculosis of the genital organs.
  3. Neuropsychiatric disorders.
  4. Congenital malformations of the uterus (bicornuate uterus, abnormal location of the uterus, its underdevelopment).

Note: If the cause of pain during menstruation is a bending of the uterus, which arose already during puberty (due to developmental abnormalities or heavy lifting), then after a woman gives birth to a child, her painful menstruation may turn into normal. But if there is a congenital pathology, then after childbirth it does not disappear. A gynecological examination and treatment is required.

Secondary algomenorrhea

Secondary pathology occurs as a result of acquired health disorders: the formation of scars and adhesions in the uterus after operations and abortions, as well as hormonal disorders, infectious and inflammatory diseases. Such problems can occur at any age, but more often they occur in women 25-30 years old.

One of the causes of pain in secondary algomenorrhea is the presence of varicose veins in the pelvic and abdominal organs. Inflammation of the nerves located in the pelvic area can also cause severe pain.

Secondary algomenorrhea often occurs in women seeking to lose weight through fasting, which leads to anorexia or bulimia. One of the main reasons for the appearance of painful periods is a violation of the structure of the uterine tissue, their scarring, soldering after illnesses.

Infections of the genital organs. They can be sexually transmitted, causing the appearance of purulent inflammatory processes, leading to disruption of the cycle, aggravation of the symptoms of algomenorrhea. You can get rid of such diseases (trichomoniasis, syphilis, genital herpes, gonorrhea) only with simultaneous treatment of both sexual partners.

There are infectious diseases that can be contracted both sexually and through everyday life (for example, thrush).

Inflammatory diseases. They can occur when microorganisms enter from the outside due to violation of hygiene rules, as well as as a result of activation of opportunistic microflora. In small quantities, streptococci, staphylococci, and E. coli are present in a healthy body without causing any pathogenic effect. Their activation and pathological reproduction occurs due to hypothermia, lack of vitamins, disruption of the microflora of organs, and their damage.

Diseases that can lead to painful periods include inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis), the mucous membrane of its cavity (endometritis), and fallopian tubes (salpingitis).

Warning: The peculiarity is that inflammatory processes quickly spread from the external genitalia to the uterus and ovaries. The consequence of chronic diseases is the bending of the neck, coarsening of tissues, disruption of the condition of blood vessels, the appearance of cysts, polyps, and malignant neoplasms. In this case, the woman experiences various menstrual irregularities and pain in the lower abdomen, which intensifies during menstruation.

Tumors of the uterus(fibroids, cancer). The pain and unusual nature of menstruation is often the only sign of its formation. A growing tumor compresses blood vessels, as well as nerve endings located in the uterus and neighboring organs. The shape of the uterus may be disrupted, and menstrual blood stagnates in it. Swelling occurs and muscle elasticity is lost. Uterine contractions become painful. As the tumor grows, the manifestations intensify.

Endometriosis. This disease is associated with endometrial hyperplasia and its growth into other organs. In this case, the processes of the cycle are shifted in time of onset, menstruation becomes painful and prolonged, and hormonal disturbances occur due to the appearance of dangerous ovarian diseases (such as, for example, an endometrioid cyst).

Dysplasia, leukoplakia, cervical erosion. These diseases are associated with damage to epithelial cells in the cervix, impaired ability to stretch the cervix, a possible change in its shape, and a decrease in the contractility of the uterus.

Violation of hormone production. It can be caused by taking hormonal drugs, using hormonal contraceptives, malfunctioning of the ovaries, thyroid gland, and pituitary gland. Metabolic disorders and its consequences (diabetes mellitus, obesity, sudden weight loss) can also cause painful periods.

Cause of painful menstruation after childbirth

During childbirth, the ligaments that hold the uterus are damaged, causing it to deviate from its normal position, which leads to pain during menstruation due to contractions of the uterus. It is also possible to change its shape, forming folds in which menstrual blood stagnates. This causes a painful inflammatory process.

Video: Causes and treatment of algomenorrhea

Treatment for algomenorrhea

A gynecological examination, a smear test for infections, as well as blood tests for hormones and atypical cells allow us to draw conclusions about the presence of diseases. After examining the organs using ultrasound and tomography methods, it becomes obvious whether there are developmental pathologies or neoplasms in the uterus. If necessary, their nature is clarified using a biopsy. The choice of treatment methods depends on the type of disease, the woman’s age, and the severity of the pathology.

Treatment of primary algomenorrhea

Doctors advise that in the presence of primary pathology, try to avoid worries and stress, devote more time to physical exercise, quit smoking and drinking alcohol. In the second half of the cycle, it is recommended to limit sex and not lift weights.

Physiotherapeutic treatment (electrophoresis for introducing novocaine into the solar plexus area), as well as acupuncture, helps well. Drug therapy is prescribed: taking sedatives (valerian, relanium), painkillers (spasmalgon, no-shpa), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, butadione), vitamin E.

Plant-based drugs are used to normalize hormonal levels (remens, climadinone). For the same purpose, hormonal contraceptives (Anteovin, Ovidone) are prescribed.

When experiencing painful periods, it is necessary to keep a menstrual calendar in which the intensity, location and nature of the pain are recorded. It is important to visit a gynecologist every 3 months. If nothing is done, the condition will only worsen over time, and a mild disorder will become severe.

Treatment of secondary algomenorrhea

If it is determined that the cause of painful menstruation is diseases of the genital organs, then treatment is carried out with drugs of appropriate action (antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals).

Progesterone-based drugs are used to suppress ovulation and reduce intrauterine pressure, as well as the intensity of uterine contractions. In this case, the use of oral contraceptives has a good effect. Treatment with duphaston is successfully carried out.

If painful periods occur due to the presence of adhesions, scars or tumors in the uterus, then surgery is performed. This takes into account the patient’s age and her intention to have children.

Physiotherapy methods (electrophoresis, therapeutic baths) can combat inflammatory processes. A popular method of eliminating menstrual pain is hirudotherapy (applying leeches that suck out blood, reducing tension in the uterus). Leech saliva contains painkillers and anti-inflammatory substances.

If the doctor finds no contraindications, then for such a pathology it is permissible to use traditional medicine: soothing herbal teas with oregano, mint, muscle-relaxing beetroot and pumpkin juices. Decoctions and infusions with anti-inflammatory properties (from burdock leaves, acorns and herbal mixtures) are used.

Video: How to relieve painful periods


There comes a time in the life of every young girl when she grows up and her body undergoes dramatic changes. During puberty, the production of hormones increases, causing the girl’s body to acquire typical female constitutional characteristics - a figure is formed, breasts grow. But the most striking manifestation of growing up is the first menstruation. It is from this moment that childhood ends, the girl begins to turn into a woman. However, these significant changes often turn into torture, which can accompany a woman until her last menstruation in her life.

Painful menstruation is an issue that begins to worry a girl during puberty, and remains relevant for older women. For many this becomes a real problem. Some women experience painful periods throughout almost their entire lives, and throughout their lives they search for answers to the questions of why and how to get rid of it. Reasons for this feature female body We will look at this in this article and try to find out what painful menstruation is: a physiological (normal, natural) or pathological condition (disease).

WHAT IS PAINFUL MENSTRUATION?

Painful menstruation (also known as dysmenorrhea, algomenorrhea or algomenorrhea according to the medical name, if menstruation is not just painful, but also irregular) is a pain syndrome that occurs during menstruation, as well as several days before its onset. Painful periods are characterized by cramping or aching pain in the lower abdomen, lower back and sacrum. The pain may be accompanied by a general malaise of varying strength and degree.

PAINFUL MENSTRUATION: SYMPTOMS AND MANIFESTATIONS OF ALGOMENORRHOEA

Algomenorrhea, as a rule, occurs the same in all women. In the lower part of the body, in the lower abdomen, in the sacrum and lower back, a dull aching pain appears in the days leading up to the onset of menstruation. When menstruation comes, the pain becomes stronger, more pronounced, cramping, sharp. Often, pain to one degree or another is observed during the first two days, then gradually subside and finally disappear. In some cases, the pain of menstruation can be so severe that a woman simply loses her ability to work; even ordinary self-care is difficult for her. Very painful menstruation also affects your general condition and well-being, as it causes irritability, increased anxiety and depression. Considering such cases, painful periods can be considered a social problem on a global scale - and this is not a joke.

The pain syndrome may be accompanied by other symptoms that accompany painful periods: headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting. Some women experience problems sleeping, their appetite may sharply increase or decrease, their sensitivity to smells may increase, and their taste sensations. Symptoms of algodismenorrhea in severe cases can manifest themselves in the form of increased blood pressure, the appearance or exacerbation of migraine. A painful menstrual cycle can cause fainting, increased heart rate, and arrhythmia. The intensity of bleeding may vary from woman to woman; at the most painful moments, the discharge may increase or, on the contrary, decrease, and pass with blood clots.

Quite rare symptoms of painful periods are fluctuations in body temperature. An increase in temperature is often observed when a woman has secondary algomenorrhea, which has developed against the background of endometriosis, that is, in the presence of pathology.

A characteristic feature is the period when pain symptoms occur. As a rule, pain occurs no earlier than a year to a year and a half after the first menstruation. In addition, algomenorrhea is more often observed in women with a regular, ovulatory, stable menstrual cycle, that is, without any deviations or problems.

STATISTICS OF “MENSTRUAL PAIN”

Painful periods are a very common condition that all women go through to one degree or another. According to statistics, women aged 14 to 44 years (data for primary algomenorrhea) and aged 30 to 40 years (data for secondary algomenorrhea) are susceptible to this pathology. At this age, menstrual cycle pain occurs in women in 31-52% of cases.

Of the total number of all women experiencing such pain, about 10%, with the onset of menstruation, lose their ability to work and the ability to generally lead normal life activities. Scientists cannot provide reliable statistics, but they agree that the pain of menstruation also affects the statistics of crimes and suicides committed by women during menstruation.

CLASSIFICATION OF ALGOMENORRHOEA

Algodismenorrhea is classified according to various criteria.

In particular, algomenorrhea, depending on the causes of its occurrence, is divided by doctors into:

1. Primary algomenorrhea (physiological, anatomical causes);

2. Secondary algomenorrhea (congenital pathologies, gynecological diseases).

Painful menstruation is divided into three degrees of severity, namely:

1. Lightweight;

2. Average;

3. Severe (with loss of ability to work).

PAINFUL MENSTRUATION: REASONS

As you already understand, painful menstruation can be primary or secondary. Primary algomenorrhea is considered functional, since it is not associated with any changes in the anatomical nature of the internal genital organs; in fact, it is a natural process determined by the individual characteristics of the body. Secondary algodysmenorrhea is one of the symptoms of either congenital pathology (malformations) of the internal genital organs, or gynecological diseases, such as endometriosis, chronic inflammatory diseases of the uterine appendages.

The reasons that cause painful periods are not yet fully understood. In cases of primary algomenorrhea in women, in principle, no abnormalities are detected, even with the most thorough examination. Therefore, this manifestation of the menstrual cycle is considered normal, natural, and the presence of severe pain is explained by uterine contractions and individual intolerance to pain. As a rule, pain sensations are dramatically reduced or even disappear completely after childbirth: the cervix after childbirth no longer offers such strong resistance during dilation and the pain goes away or becomes less.

As for the secondary form, inflammatory diseases of the appendages or signs of endometriosis may be detected here. Very often, with secondary algodismenorrhea in women 30-40 years old, external or internal endometriosis is diagnosed. In such cases, the pain is longer lasting – longer than 1-2 days.

There are other causes of secondary algomenorrhea: abortion, childbirth, surgical interventions on the uterus and appendages, uterine fibroids, the use of intrauterine contraception (IUD).

The causes of painful periods may also lie in varicose veins of the small pelvis, or rupture of the broad ligament of the uterus (a pathology known in medicine as Allen-Masters). In rare cases, dilated veins in the pelvic area are an independent disease. Often this is a manifestation of a systemic disease occurring against the background of dilated hemorrhoidal veins and varicose veins of the lower extremities. As for ruptures of the broad ligament of the uterus, they usually occur due to birth injuries or in the case of very rough curettage of the uterine cavity (due to abortion or disease).

In addition to reasons that are directly related to the internal genital organs, painful menstruation can be observed when a woman has poor posture or flat feet.

MECHANISM OF MENSTRUAL PAIN SYNDROME

Why do menstrual pain occur, what happens in a woman’s body that makes her experience this pain? The immediate causes of pain are contractions of the uterus, which cause vasospasm, leading to disruption of the nutrition of the tissues inside the uterus. At the diagnostic level, such uterine contractions are caused by an increased level of prostaglandins in the blood.

In simple terms, bleeding is the end of the monthly cycle for the uterus. Within a month, the uterus was preparing to receive a fertilized egg, that is, for a future pregnancy. Its cavity was lined with tissues, a kind of global network of blood vessels that were supposed to feed the baby. But pregnancy did not happen and all these tissues became unnecessary. During menstruation, they are rejected by the body and leave it, exiting with blood. In a way, menstruation is a “mini-birth” because similar processes occur. The uterus contracts to push out what is in it, the cervix dilates to push it out. Therefore, the pain of this process in a healthy woman is understandable and logical.

DOES IT HURT OR SEEM TO?

A special role in the occurrence of menstrual pain is also given to the psychological state of a woman. It happens that the subconscious expectation of the arrival of a painful menstrual cycle causes fear when menstruation approaches or occurs, which increases the usual discomfort, turning it into severe pain. That is why it is important to determine in each individual case which cause of pain is paramount - biological or psychological, and if both are present, to determine the dominant one. And fight it.

COMPLICATIONS AND POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES OF PAINFUL MENSURES

One way or another, you should not endure severe pain, even if its causes are natural. Experiences of pain affect the female psyche, at a minimum, and of course, far from positive. Go to a doctor and he will help you get rid of it, fortunately in the 21st century they know how to deal with such pain. And even more so, you should not delay visiting a gynecologist if you have secondary algomenorrhea - it, or rather the reasons that cause it, is necessary!

How to treat painful periods, as well as how to relieve menstrual pain, read the articles:,.

Complications from painful periods in cases of mild or moderate severity are not observed. When we are talking about a severe course, loss of ability to work (temporary, short-term) and the development of severe depression are not uncommon. Complications in secondary algomenorrhea are not directly related to the pain syndrome; they depend on the underlying disease and its course, and therefore can cause serious threat life and health in the absence of treatment.

And a little more about how to deal with painful periods:

Many representatives experience painful periods (dysmenorrhea, algodismenorrhea) fair half humanity. In most cases, severe pain during menstruation indicates the presence of some pathology of the female genital area. Next, we will consider why painful periods occur, what pathologies and disorders may indicate, and whether treatment for painful periods is required.

With the onset of puberty, a certain part of the uterine endometrium is rejected every month, which, together with the egg and a small amount of blood, is released out through the genital tract. This cyclical process is menstruation. During this period, women experience a significant hormonal shift, which causes the presence of some unpleasant symptoms before or immediately during menstruation.

If pregnancy does not occur, the uterus rejects tissue it does not need. This situation is accompanied by cervical dilation and spasms, so moderate pain during menstruation is an indicator of the norm.

Normal symptoms before or during mid-cycle menstruation (PMS pain) include:

  • nagging pain before menstruation in the lower abdomen of low or medium intensity. Sometimes before menstruation only one side hurts, this indicates that it was in this ovary that ovulation occurred;
  • discomfort in the lumbar region;
  • increased appetite;
  • tenderness of the mammary glands and pain before menstruation in the chest;
  • minor mood changes;
  • increased libido in the middle of the cycle and before the onset of menstruation.

The above symptoms are related and directly controlled by the production of the hormone progesterone. Sometimes painful periods occur after a delay. This is not a deviation from the norm if it is an isolated case.

Types of dysmenorrhea. Causes of pain

Very painful periods come in primary and secondary types. Primary is not associated with any serious diseases or pathologies. This type of dysmenorrhea occurs in girls with an unstable nervous system (as there is a slight hormonal imbalance), asthenic type of build (very thin), in girls in the first year of menstruation or with an anatomically incorrect position of the uterus.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is usually associated with inflammatory or other diseases of the female genital area and their consequences. So, severe menstrual pain can be provoked by:

  1. Inflammation of the appendages (,), which contributes to the occurrence of adhesions. If there are adhesions, even after menstruation, the lower abdomen hurts and pulls in the lower back.
  2. uterus and ovaries. Uterine endometrial cells rapidly divide and spread to nearby organs.
  3. Various neoplasms (polyps).
  4. Inflammatory processes of nearby organs (for example, bladder).
  5. Hormonal disorders. For example, periods after Duphaston (a hormonal medicine) sometimes come with a slight delay and can cause aching pain in the lower abdomen.
  6. Varicose veins of the small pelvis.
  7. Hormonal disorders.
  8. Surgical interventions (including abortions). For example, periods after hysteroscopy often come with a delay of one month. Menstruation does not proceed as usual - the intensity of the discharge may change and severe pain may occur.
  9. Intrauterine device. If it is installed or removed incorrectly, it causes acute pain both during menstruation and in the middle of the cycle.

Remember! If you have always had scanty periods, but have recently become heavy, this may indicate some kind of pathology. Doctor's consultation required!

Painful symptoms during menstruation

On the first day of menstruation, you may experience some discomfort. So, a woman experiences the following symptoms:

  • severe aching, nagging pain in the lower abdomen, which is localized on one side (the right side or left hurts) and radiates to the tailbone, leg or uterus. In especially severe cases, there may be a sharp spasm or “shooting” in the abdominal cavity associated with contraction of the uterus and rejection of the unfertilized egg;
  • lower back pain;
  • dizziness, migraine;
  • severe nausea, sometimes vomiting and diarrhea;
  • feeling of pressure and swelling of the mammary glands, sore nipples;
  • a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, which is manifested by chills, sweating, and changes in heart rate;
  • upset stool, diarrhea or, conversely, constipation;
  • fainting lasting a few seconds is a terrible symptom that requires an urgent call to the doctor.

The above symptoms can make a woman completely unable to work, so bed rest is required, at least until severe pain during menstruation subsides.

The nervous system also suffers during this period. Severe malaise makes a woman overly irritable, anxiety, insomnia, and weakness may appear. Chronic stress often increases the duration and frequency of symptoms. This is why women often experience not only pain after menstruation, but also in the middle of the cycle.

Doctors often recommend that patients with the above symptoms keep a diary and a cycle calendar, where they should write down the start and end dates of menstruation, whether they are painful, as well as other ailments observed during this period.

Remember! If you suffer from terrible pain during menstruation, then you should not tolerate this condition. It is necessary to contact a gynecologist and find out the true cause of the pain.

In some sources you can find information that if you have pain during menstruation, you need to move more or do physical exercise. However, in reality this should not be done during menstruation, since unnecessary movements during severe pain will only aggravate the situation.

Menstruation during pregnancy

If the expectant mother is healthy, then there should be no menstruation during pregnancy. The greatest danger is bleeding in the first trimester, up to 12 weeks. It is during this period of bearing a child that the risk of miscarriage is high.

If a woman has painful periods during early pregnancy, and she is not even aware of her interesting situation, this aggravates the situation. The expectant mother may drink alcohol or smoke based on uterine bleeding and pain in the lower abdomen, suggesting that menstruation has begun. This is why situations happen when a woman finds out about pregnancy three months after conception.

If a pregnant woman experiences pain in the lower abdomen or brown or reddish discharge, she should immediately visit a gynecologist to prevent sad consequences. In order to save the child, eliminate the cause of pain and the painful symptoms themselves, a woman is most often prescribed treatment in a hospital.

Thus, menstruation during pregnancy in most cases indicates a pathological process that requires urgent diagnosis.

Diagnostics

Very severe pain during menstruation, which lasts more than two to three days and does not go away after taking analgesics, requires medical intervention. To choose the right treatment, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis and find out the cause of the pathological symptoms.

The examination should be carried out at the beginning of the cycle, preferably on days 5-7. As a last resort - in the middle of the cycle, before ovulation. During this period, the hormonal balance is restored, the pain most often goes away and the research results will be more accurate.

Diagnostic measures are carried out by a gynecologist in several stages.

To begin with, a medical history of the patient is compiled. The doctor finds out whether the patient is sexually active, what methods of contraception she uses, whether there have been pregnancies, abortions, surgical interventions, or whether there are chronic diseases.

Then he begins the examination in a gynecological chair. An experienced gynecologist can determine by palpation the presence of possible inflammation of the ovaries, appendages or uterus. The site of inflammation is usually painful and enlarged.

The above methods are often not enough to make a correct diagnosis, therefore, in order to avoid medical errors, additional laboratory and instrumental tests are carried out. A smear is taken to determine possible infections, and blood is taken from a finger (vein). In some cases, a blood test for hormones is performed.

Then the woman needs to undergo an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs to determine the presence of cysts and other formations. Sometimes the doctor prescribes a test that allows you to determine the presence of adhesions and check the pelvic organs in more detail than an ultrasound.

Painful menstruation can also occur with vascular pathologies. In this case, Doppler ultrasound of the vessels is performed.

Based on the diagnostic results, in the absence of gynecological pathologies, it is necessary to undergo examination by a neurologist and psychotherapist, since disruptions in the nervous system can directly affect changes in the cycle and aggravate the course of its unpleasant symptoms.

If a gynecological disease is detected, the doctor diagnoses “algodismenorrhea” and prescribes treatment.

What to do for pain during menstruation

Treatment of dysmenorrhea includes not only pain relief and symptomatic therapy, but also the mandatory elimination of the disease that caused it. Thus, for inflammatory processes of an infectious and non-infectious nature, antibacterial and antiviral therapy is prescribed, as well as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating suppositories and tablets.

In case of neoplasms of the internal genital organs, which can cause pain in the lower abdomen after menstruation, a decision is made to remove them surgically.

Hormonal drug

Painful and heavy periods caused by hormonal disorders are treated with drugs that correct hormonal levels. The most commonly prescribed tablets are Yarina and Diana-35.

If dysmenorrhea is caused by disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system against the background of chronic stress, then treatment is prescribed by a neurologist or psychotherapist. Here, both ordinary sedative sedative tablets and more serious therapy can be used - tranquilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants. Vaginal suppositories are not used in this case.

To directly eliminate painful and heavy periods, painkillers are used, such as Nise, Nurofen, Analgin, Tempalgin, Ketorol, No-Shpa. It is not recommended to use suppositories during menstruation.

In parallel with the above measures, for severe pain during menstruation, taking vitamins E, A, C is indicated. The duration and regimen of administration is determined by the gynecologist in each specific case.

Traditional medicine cannot be ignored either. Herbs are widely used for heavy periods - chamomile, boron uterus. By taking this herbal decoction you can reduce the intensity of pain.

What not to do during menstruation:

  • be sexually active;
  • warm or cool the pain areas;
  • perform intense physical exercise;
  • visit baths, saunas, swimming pools, lie in the bath.

Prevention

After drug elimination of the cause of dysmenorrhea, simple preventive measures must be followed to prevent the return of painful symptoms.

  1. Correct daily routine, alternating work and rest. It is necessary to avoid mental and physical overload, sleep at least 8-9 hours. Failure to follow these rules leads to chronic fatigue syndrome and stress. And stress, as we know, is the cause of 90% of diseases, including dysmenorrhea.
  2. During painful periods, moderate physical activity helps tone muscles, improve metabolism and metabolic processes in the body, and can even normalize hormonal levels.
  3. Take timely measures to eliminate stress.
  4. Proper nutrition and drinking enough fluids also have a beneficial effect on the body.
  5. Refusal bad habits(drinking alcoholic beverages, smoking) is simply necessary for heavy periods.

Dysmenorrhea is not a death sentence. With a competent approach to treatment, as well as compliance preventive measures this disease is completely removable.

From a medical point of view, painful periods are called algomenorrhea, and almost half of women face this problem, and 10% complain of very painful periods that interfere with work and study. Expect aching and cramping pain radiating to the sacrum, hip joints and back, with critical days darkens the lives of many women, so we can say that painful menstruation is also a social problem.

The causes of painful periods depend on whether the algomenorrhea is primary or secondary.

Primary algomenorrhea and its causes

In the case of primary algomenorrhea, it is sometimes difficult to understand why the stomach hurts so much. The ultrasound shows everything is normal, there are no anatomical changes in the internal organs, but menstruation is painful. However, sometimes the reasons lie in the underdevelopment of the uterus and its incorrect position. Most often, the reasons are hidden in women’s hormonal problems.

The hormone prostaglandin, or more precisely, a violation of its synthesis, is to blame for the fact that we have painful menstruation. It’s just that the closer your period is, the more it is produced, and this provokes:

  • increased contractility of the uterine muscles;
  • compression of blood vessels;
  • disruption of the nutrition of its tissues.

The fact that painful periods and their causes are associated with hormonal dysfunction is evidenced by the fact that the first heavy periods usually come a year after the start of menstruation, that is, by the time the ovulatory cycle has been established.

Other causes of painful periods, which can be classified as primary, are associated with problems of the nervous system: the woman is simply susceptible to pain.

There is also a psychological reason for painful periods. Very often, girls deny their femininity, which is why they believe that menstruation is something abnormal and dirty. In many traditional and other countries, a woman is treated as an imperfect person, and everything related to women’s health and nature is considered abnormal. However, psychosomatics is a dubious concept, but it’s still worth figuring out why you’re embarrassed to be a woman, and the pain may go away.

And sometimes painful periods have purely physiological causes.


Menstruation can be painful if the structure of the uterus interferes with the proper outflow of menstrual blood. The uterus may be curved or irregularly shaped. Excess weight may also be a reason. Very often, painful periods of this type occur in young and nulliparous women.

Very often, the reasons that periods are painful are hidden in women's diseases. In this case, we are talking about algomenorrhea of ​​the second type. Painful menstruation in this case is caused by inflammatory processes in the ovaries and appendages, as well as the uterus.

Other reasons that can cause painful periods are:

  • endometriosis;
  • and endometritis;
  • varicose veins of the uterus;
  • fibroids and fibroids;
  • genital injuries;
  • ectopic device.

Painful periods of this type very often occur in older women who have given birth, had abortions and caesarean sections, and have undergone cervical cauterization and gynecological operations.

Often the pain radiates to the rectum and sacrum, often causing an increase in temperature. Painful sensations come several days earlier than the period itself and continue until the second or third day of the cycle. In such cases, pills will not help; treatment of the underlying disease is necessary.


Any treatment should begin with an examination - how else to find out the reasons?

Women who experience painful menstruation need not only a routine gynecological examination and smear examination, but also ultrasound, hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, as well as hormonal studies.

What about treatment? As mentioned above, treatment of algomenorrhea of ​​the second type begins with treatment of the underlying disease.

Treatment of algomenorrhea of ​​the first type should include drugs that suppress the synthesis of prostaglandins. The most popular among them:

  • butadione;
  • naprosin;
  • Brufen;
  • indomethacin

They begin to be taken a couple of days before menstruation begins, and continue to be taken in the first two to three days of the cycle.

Naprosin is taken twice a day, ¼ gram, indomethacin - three times a day, 25 mg, Brufen - three times a day, 1/5 gram. Treatment with these drugs continues for three cycles or longer. In addition, in the first days of the cycle it is recommended to take vitamin E (300 mg).

What else helps with painful menstruation:

  • Physiotherapeutic treatment will be useful, for example, electrophoresis with novocaine on the solar plexus, which needs to be done about ten times. They do the procedure every other day, you need to finish it by the time your period arrives.
  • Darsonvalization and acupuncture, which is carried out for three to four months, will also be useful. The first time the procedure is carried out throughout the month, then only after ovulation, that is, in the second phase.
  • If your periods are painful, in the second phase of the cycle you can drink valerian and place a heating pad on your lower abdomen. Before critical days, you should not overload, but you can do physical exercise.
  • Treatment can be carried out using OCs with a low dosage of hormones, for example, Mercilon, Silest, Marvelon.
  • There is no need to talk about the need to normalize your lifestyle. Painful periods can be caused by lack of sleep, love of alcohol and coffee, smoking, and stress.
  • A sedentary lifestyle can also cause increased pain during menstruation. You need to move and maintain an active lifestyle.

And, of course, painful sensations can be relieved with the help of antispasmodics (papaverine, no-shpa) and analgesics (ketoral, analgin, ibuprofen, tamipul, etc.). But you shouldn’t get carried away with pills, you need to find out the root cause and undergo a course of treatment, if necessary.

In addition, painful periods are more common in obese girls, so sometimes it’s enough to lose weight and the pain will go away. The diet must include foods with fatty acids, which have a positive effect on hormonal levels.



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