Painful periods are associated. Severe pain during menstruation: causes of cramps. Symptoms associated with painful menstruation

The intensity of discharge and associated symptoms during menstruation is a clear indicator of women's health. Some of the fair sex suffer from severe pain since adolescence. In order for menstruation to pass quickly and painlessly, you need to undergo an examination and identify the causes of unbearable pain.

Causes of painful periods

Minor menstrual pain can occur with increased muscle contractions of the uterus, contributing to the rejection of the functional layer of the endometrium. Disruption of this process can be triggered by many factors. When the intensity of the contractions increases, the woman experiences unbearable pain, which in medicine is referred to as "dysmenorrhea" or "algodysmenorrhea".

The most common cause of painful periods in adolescents is the location of the uterus, which compresses the nerve endings during the menstrual cycle. Pain syndrome in women who have not given birth to children can be triggered by:

• CNS disorders;
• congenital anomalies of internal organs;
• lack of magnesium;
• genital tuberculosis;
• psychoneurological pathologies;
• dysplastic anomalies of the connective tissue.

In most women, algomenorrhea disappears by itself immediately after the birth of a child. This is due to the fact that during childbirth there is a stretching of the cervix, which previously prevents the release of blood.

Painful menstruation in women with children can be observed with the following pathologies:

• Sexually transmitted infections contribute to the development of diseases that cause severe pain, as well as menstrual irregularities.
• Inflammatory processes caused by the reproduction of opportunistic microorganisms are often accompanied by painful menstruation. Vitamin deficiency, hypothermia, or neglect of personal hygiene rules can provoke an increased growth of bacteria.
• Malignant and benign tumors, gradually increasing in size, put pressure on the vessels of the internal organs, which leads to impaired uterine blood flow.
• Endometriosis is characterized by an overgrowth of endometrial cells outside the uterus and often causes menstrual irregularities. When a hormonal imbalance occurs, menstruation becomes plentiful and painful.

The severity of pain during menstruation

Pain during menstruation, depending on the cause of their appearance, have different intensity. The severity of the pain syndrome is determined by the accompanying symptoms:

1. The first degree is characterized by mild pain during menstrual bleeding. In most cases, it does not have systemic manifestations and practically does not affect daily activities. To cope with pain, women are advised to take analgesics.
2. The second degree has more pronounced painful symptoms, significantly reducing performance. To carry out professional activities in the usual mode, a woman needs to take drugs that have an analgesic or anti-inflammatory effect. Rarely, pain is accompanied by systemic symptoms.
3. The third degree is determined by the severe pain syndrome with algomenorrhea, in which professional activity is almost impossible. This condition in a woman is accompanied by severe headaches, insomnia, nervous disorders, loss of consciousness. It is very difficult to eliminate pain, even with the help of painkillers.

Primary and secondary dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea is most often diagnosed in adolescents, mature girls and young women. The first menstrual bleeding in most girls aged 10-13 years is accompanied by a sharp pain in the lower abdomen. If no painful symptoms were observed during menarche, they may appear within the next 3 years. Menstrual pain during this period has a different intensity.

Primary dysmenorrhea is called functional, since the causes of its appearance are associated with changes in the tissues of the internal genital organs, and not with the development of organic diseases. Pain syndrome can occur a day before menstruation and persist for the first 2 days. Cramping or aching uterine pain often extends to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bladder.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is associated with congenital or acquired organic diseases that affect the woman's menstrual cycle. Painful periods are the result of impaired blood circulation of the uterus, stretching of its walls, contraction of the muscle layer or other pathological processes.

Most often, secondary dysmenorrhea affects young women aged 26-30 years. Aching pains in the lower abdomen occur a few days before the onset of menstruation. The maximum intensity of the pain syndrome is reached on the 2-3rd day of menstruation.

How to eliminate severe menstrual pain?

The tactics of treating painful periods depends on the cause of the onset of the pathological condition. If severe pain is associated with an infectious or inflammatory disease, a woman needs to undergo treatment to eliminate it. With primary dysmenorrhea, symptomatic therapy is most often sufficient.

The method of treatment of pain syndrome is chosen by the gynecologist after carrying out diagnostic measures. Self-medication can provoke the transition of the disease to a more severe form.

Medications

Therapy of dysmenorrhea will be effective only if an integrated approach is used when prescribing drugs. The treatment regimen for a pathological condition is made up of the following types of drugs:

• non-steroidal drugs with anti-inflammatory effect (Brufen, Ibufen, Nalgezin, Sanaprox);
• antispasmodics (Spazmol, Baralgin, Drotaverin, Spazmonet);
• hormonal contraceptives, which include a progestogen (Dufaston, Levanova, Megastron);
• antifungal suppositories (Zalain, Betadine, Pimafucin) are prescribed for intensive reproduction of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms;
• drugs that have a sedative effect on the central nervous system (Trioxazine, Valerian Forte, motherwort tincture);
• homeopathic medicines (Feminal, Onagris, Tazalok).

Physiotherapy treatment

The timely appointment of a complex of physiotherapeutic procedures can significantly reduce the pain syndrome during menstruation. Since physiotherapy has many contraindications, a gynecologist should prescribe procedures after establishing the cause of pain.

In primary dysmenorrhea, electrophoresis and acupuncture are used. Secondary pathology is treated with therapeutic baths, pulsed currents, electrical stimulation, magnetotherapy and ultrasound. It should be noted that physiotherapeutic procedures are contraindicated during menstruation. They should be carried out in the second half of the cycle.

ethnoscience

To reduce the intensity of menstrual pain, you can use the methods of traditional medicine. Horsetail has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, so it is often used to eliminate gynecological diseases. As an anesthetic, a decoction of mint leaves, valerian root or chamomile flowers is often used.

Abundant discharge during menstruation

Despite the fact that the amount of blood released is an individual feature of each woman, menstruation, which does not stop for a week, during which it is very often necessary to change hygiene products, are considered abundant. A large amount of menstrual flow (menorrhagia) can be a sign of serious disorders in the female reproductive system.

Possible reasons

The main causes of heavy discharge during menstruation are the following pathologies:

• hormonal disbalance;
• infections of the female genital organs;
• disorders caused by the intrauterine device;
• reduced blood clotting;
• diseases of the endocrine, genitourinary or cardiovascular systems;
• overload of the body, provoked by stress or physical exertion.

Causes for concern

If during menstruation a woman releases a large amount of blood, in which there are large clots, this should be the reason for contacting a gynecologist. Abundant discharge can lead to the development of anemia, in which general well-being worsens, weakness appears, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness is possible.

Basic principles of therapy

Estrogen contraceptives are used to restore hormonal balance in the treatment of menorrhagia. Their action is aimed at reducing the growth of the endometrium and reducing the volume of menstrual flow. With severe bleeding, the use of hemostatic agents is recommended. To reduce the risk of anemia, a woman is prescribed iron supplements.

Preventive measures to prevent painful and heavy periods

To prevent dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, doctors recommend the following rules:

• do not disturb sleep and rest;
• include fruits and vegetables in the diet;
• monitor body weight;
• reduce the consumption of coffee and tea;
• avoid nervous shocks;
• spend more time outdoors
• keep fit.

Content

Painful periods regularly experience many women. You can't get used to this problem, despite the fact that it is intermittent and disappears after a few days. About what could be the causes of painful periods in women, as well as what to do in this condition - later in the article.

Why is menstruation painful?

Painful periods are called algomenorrhea. They occur in women every month. Not every menstruation is accompanied by unacceptable sensations.

It is very important to respond in time to too painful periods, as they often signal a developing gynecological disease.

As a rule, the first day of menstruation is very painful. It may be accompanied by aching, cramping and stabbing sensations that disappear on their own after a couple of days or after taking analgesics.

Additional symptoms that accompany algomenorrhea are:

• headache;
• nausea;
• indigestion;
• weakness;
• irritability;
• loss of appetite;
• tachycardia;
• vomit.

An accurate diagnosis for painful periods can only be established by a gynecologist. Most often, the root causes of this pathology are:

1. Hereditary predisposition to painful algomenorrhea.
2. Acute deficiency of vitamins and nutrients. Especially often, pain is observed with a lack of calcium and magnesium in a woman's body.
3. Developing gynecological diseases. These can be: uterine fibroids, developmental pathologies of the organs of the reproductive system, ovarian cyst, cancer, infection, etc.
4. Hormonal disbalance.
5. Weakness of the pelvic muscles and ligaments in general. A similar condition is associated with a lack of physical activity, which leads to muscle weakness and increased sensitivity to spasms in the abdomen.
6. Establishment of an intrauterine device.
7. Vegetovascular dystonia.
8. Previous abortion.
9. Wrong nutrition.
10. Use of hormonal contraceptives.

Moreover, the curvature of the spine, varicose veins, microstroke and neuralgia increase the risk of painful menstruation.

Primary algomenorrhea

Acute pain during menstruation, which is characteristic of girls aged 16-25 years, is noted with primary algomenorrhea. The cause of discomfort is an increase in the contractile activity of the myometrium.

This provokes the appearance of the following symptoms:

• spasms of blood vessels;
• stool disorders;
• nausea;
• migraine.

Despite the rather pronounced symptoms, pathological disorders in the pelvic organs do not occur with primary algomenorrhea. Very painful periods in this condition pass after the first birth.

Secondary algomenorrhea

Secondary algomenorrhea is diagnosed with developing pathologies of the pelvic organs. Pain in this case is a consequence of changes in the uterus.

Most often, manifestations of secondary algomenorrhea are noted in such cases:

• approaching menopause;
• uterine polyps;
• pelvic neuritis;
• anorexia;
• depression;
• consequences of frequent abortions;
• birth trauma.

What do painful periods mean?

If menstruation provokes quite tolerable discomfort in the lower abdomen, and it is easy to stop it with antispasmodics, then you should not worry.

If every menstruation is accompanied by pronounced unpleasant sensations (chills, hot flashes and even loss of consciousness), the cycle is regarded as pathological.

Important! To endure such periods is not worth it, so as not to worsen your condition even more.

Painful periods in teenagers

Often painful menstruation is experienced by teenage girls, which becomes a real problem for them. The following reasons can provoke discomfort in this case:

• weakness of the muscles of the vagina;
• hormonal failure, which is often observed in adolescents;
• excessive contraction of the uterus;
• poor blood clotting;
• low pain threshold;
• stress and depression;
• kink of the uterus, which makes it difficult for the outflow of blood.

Severe pain during menstruation on the first day

Severe pain during menstruation, which are noted on the first day, may be a variant of the norm or may indicate a pathological process. In the latter case, the following problems are most often observed:

• inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs;
• infection in the ovaries or uterus;
• addition of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).

Pathological pain can be distinguished from physiological pain. In the first case, the discomfort will be constant, not periodic (in the form of spasms). It is very difficult to stop them with conventional analgesics.

Warning! In the presence of such pain, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible and conduct a diagnosis.

Cramping pain during menstruation

Discomfort during menstruation and cramping pain can be observed with developing gynecological diseases. In most cases, these symptoms provoke inflammatory processes in the pelvis, and also cause endometriosis.

This disease causes the inner layer of the uterine wall to spread to the ovaries or fallopian tubes. Treatment of endometriosis involves the use of hormonal drugs.

Attention! Endometriosis is a fairly common disease that is diagnosed in 10% of women.

Stitching pain during menstruation

Torsion of the peduncle of an ovarian cyst can cause stabbing pains. In this case, the patient will suffer from severe, almost unbearable pain.

This condition can be detected only after performing an ultrasound examination. Its treatment is usually surgical.

Possible Complications

The most dangerous are heavy painful menstruation. In this condition, there is a risk of the following complications:

• anemia, which will occur due to large blood loss;
• inflammation of the uterus;
• indigestion;
• miscarriage, which may require curettage of the uterine mucosa;
• dysfunction of the reproductive system.

Important! Severe pain before menstruation often occurs due to the influence of hormones that can increase nervous sensations and uterine contractions.

What to take for period pain

For pain relief during menstruation, it is allowed to take such drugs:

1. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) - Diclofenac, Nimesil.
2. Derivatives of progesterone, which will reduce the activity of the uterus.
3. Non-hormonal painkillers - "Analgin".
4. Oral contraceptives. They will suppress the ovulation process, and reduce the tone of the uterus.

It is also allowed to take herbal remedies (infusion of horsetail, decoction of chamomile, mint and yarrow).

How to treat painful periods

With the physiological causes of algomenorrhea, you can alleviate your condition with the help of:

• nutrition correction;
• elimination of bad habits;
• lumbar massage.

Also on critical days, it is advisable to perform special exercises that will improve the elasticity and tone of the pelvic muscles.

Prevention

The following tips can help reduce your risk of developing painful periods:

1. Complete nutrition. The diet should be well balanced and rich in nutrients.
2. Taking vitamins every season. The doctor should select them depending on the individual needs of the body.
3. Sports. It can be both professional training and simple physical exercises performed at home. Also, regular running and exercise will help strengthen the ligamentous apparatus.
4. Compliance with the optimal mode of rest and work.
5. Avoidance of stress and nervous strain.
6. Hypothermia protection.
7. Suitable oral contraceptives.
8. Timeliness of treatment of any gynecological diseases, inflammatory processes, infectious infection.
9. Regular passing (every six months) preventive examination by a gynecologist and testing.

Advice! In order not to worsen your condition, you should not take aspirin and potent narcotic drugs during menstruation pain.

Conclusion

Painful periods can be so pronounced that a woman will not be able to work, sleep, or go about her business. In such a state, you need to look for the cause of the problem and eliminate it until the disease has passed into a neglected form.

Pain during menstruation of a moderate nature is the norm and accompanies critical days in about 70% of women of reproductive age.

Slightly expressed pain, discomfort, but tolerable, weakness - especially in nulliparous girls - all this is normal.

Menstruation in the common people or menstruation in a medical way is a process in the female body, as a result of which the uterine mucosa is rejected. As a result, bleeding occurs.

During this period, the muscles of the walls of the uterus are strongly reduced, a vasospasm occurs. The tissues are deprived of the opportunity to fully eat, for this reason there is severe pain during menstruation.

The main reasons are high levels of prostaglandins in the blood. Throughout the functioning of the uterus is aimed at preparing for conception. The tissues of its internal cavity are intensively nourished and covered with small blood vessels. It is they who will nourish the fetus during pregnancy.

In the absence of conception, the tissues are not able to perform their intended function, and therefore are pushed out by the uterus. The muscles of the organ contract, the neck opens. Therefore, pain during menstruation, the nature of which is moderate, is quite natural.

Severe pain may indicate problems in the female body. Do not tolerate them, you need to see a doctor. And if intolerable pain during menstruation is disturbing, what to take is also prescribed only by a gynecologist.

Pain during menstruation

When there are severe pains during menstruation, what to do and why this happens, not all girls and women know.

With the onset of critical days, the hormone prostaglandin is produced in the tissues of the uterine cavity. This is the "culprit" of the start of cuts. The amount of the hormone directly affects the intensity of pain.

Dysmenorrhea, and this is another name for painful periods, is of two types - primary and secondary.

Primary dysmenorrhea

This condition is diagnosed in adolescent girls and women under the age of 35 years. Its cause is the level of prostaglandin produced. It is he who provokes vasospasm and the appearance of pain of a cramping nature. And to the question whether this is normal or not, the answer is yes, it is normal.

Symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea:

• the same throughout the menstruation;
• discomfort in the lumbar region;
• weakness;
• nausea, vomiting;
• headaches and dizziness;
• chair problems.

In most cases, if the body is healthy, all these signs disappear after childbirth, or with age in teenage girls.

Secondary dysmenorrhea

This pathology is diagnosed in women over the age of 35 years. The causes of dysmenorrhea in this category of people are many:

• Gynecological problems: inflammatory processes and pathologies of the pelvic organs, endometriosis, polyps, fibromatous nodes, a consequence of gynecological operations, abortions, curettage.
• Contraception: use of intrauterine devices.
• Others: metabolic disorders, hormonal imbalance, heredity, malnutrition.

As a result of the diagnosis, the cause of pain will be identified. The prescribed therapy and the elimination of the initial cause of discomfort will allow you to get rid of painful problems.

What to take?

You can get rid of unpleasant sensations, if they are not very disturbing, on your own. What to drink in this case? Over-the-counter medications may be used, which include the following:

• Anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs. Relieve pain well. This includes Ibuprofen.
• Antispasmodics. These are Analgin, Spazmalgon, No-shpa.
• Sedatives. If the cause of discomfort is stress, an overabundance of emotions, you can take Valerian Extract.

Another method of therapy is oral contraception. However, this category of drugs is taken strictly according to the doctor's prescription. They contain hormones that normalize the hormonal background in the female body, as a result of which painful sensations disappear.

Folk methods

If there is no desire to drink pills, you can turn to traditional medicine.

Recipes for effective infusions:

• Elecampane root. Pour one teaspoon of grass with a glass of boiling water, leave for an hour, take 1 tablespoon three times a day.
• Raspberry leaves. Pour 3 teaspoons of raw materials into a glass of boiling water, insist for 15 minutes, take small sips throughout the day.
• Field horsetail. Pour 300 ml of boiling water one tablespoon of the plant, insist for an hour, take 50 ml every hour. With a decrease in the intensity of pain, increase the interval for taking the infusion.

You can cope with weak ones without admission by following a number of simple recommendations:

• daily regime;
• balanced diet;
• full sleep;
• refusal of coffee, nicotine, alcoholic beverages;
• exclusion of stressful situations;
• bringing weight back to normal;
• normal physical activity.

Painful menstruation video

Menstruation is a physiological process that is inherent in every healthy woman. It is associated with some discomfort and the need to carry out specific hygiene procedures, but 70% of women note not only discomfort, but also real pain. Medicine classifies pain during menstruation as two of its forms.

Table of contents:

Primary dysmenorrhea

This term refers to the pain during menstruation, which occurs in adolescence. A distinctive feature of primary dysmenorrhea is that pain does not occur immediately, but 12-24 months after the first menstrual cycle. They can be constant, "seasoned" at the same level of intensity, but they can develop and become stronger from cycle to cycle.

Causes of pain during menstruation in girls

The main cause of pain during menstruation in adolescence is considered to be a violation of the production of hormones, in particular, prostaglandin, which is responsible for the intensity of uterine contraction during menstruation. If the synthesis is disturbed, this hormone is produced in much larger quantities than necessary - hence the pain appears.

An important role in the formation of primary dysmenorrhea is played by a psycho-emotional factor - often girls mentally prepare themselves for the upcoming discomfort and the threshold of sensitivity decreases: even a slight pain that cannot be classified as pathological is perceived very sharply. Gynecologists note that primary dysmenorrhea may be associated with endometriosis - a pathology associated with the growth of the uterine mucosa into other organs of the reproductive system. In this case, to join the severe pain and heavy bleeding.

note: pain during menstruation of a primary nature can be caused by various factors and causes - for example, a banal lack of magnesium in the blood. Therefore, a young woman should undergo a complete examination to establish the exact cause of the pain syndrome.

Secondary dysmenorrhea

This is how pains are differentiated during menstruation, which occur in a woman over the age of 30 due to organic changes in the organs of the reproductive system. Secondary dysmenorrhea is characterized by the appearance of pain a couple of days before bleeding and their end at the same time as menstruation. At the same time, a large amount of secreted blood is noted, the presence of clots in the secretions.

Causes of pain during menstruation in adult women

If primary dysmenorrhea occurs against the background of hormonal disorders, then by the age of 30 a woman has already passed the “test” of pregnancy and childbirth - the hormonal background is balanced. Therefore, secondary dysmenorrhea occurs for the following reasons:

• any inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system;
• the formation of a large number of adhesions - adhesive disease, which is a complication of surgery;
• pathological expansion of venous vessels located in the small pelvis;
• benign tumors / neoplasms - for example, fibroids, polyps of the cervix or cervical canal, and others;
• malignant formations;
• endometriosis.

note: the cause of pain during menstruation of a secondary nature can be an intrauterine contraceptive.

Treatment of pain during menstruation

Primary dysmenorrhea is treated only with hormonal therapy - a gynecologist and an endocrinologist examine a young woman for disorders in the hormonal system and prescribe corrective treatment with specific drugs. As a rule, pain during menstruation either disappears completely or becomes less intense. Secondary dysmenorrhea is treated only with complex measures - it is not enough to prescribe only painkillers, it will be necessary to carry out a full course of treatment of the identified pathological process.

How to eliminate pain during menstruation: pills and non-drug remedies

Taking analgesics and antispasmodics will, of course, give a good effect - the pain will stop for a while, the woman will feel significant relief. But after all, the constant intake of any drugs, including those with analgesic properties, leads to the development of pathological processes in the liver, stomach and heart. In addition, addiction will develop over time, a large dose of medication will be required ...

In any case, the use of exclusively analgesics / antispasmodics is not an option. You can take some measures to alleviate the condition without medication:

1. Foot bath. Water for her should be hot, but not boiling water! The procedure can be carried out once a day, at a convenient time, the duration is no more than 10 minutes. note: it is strictly forbidden to conduct hot foot baths for those women who, in addition to pain during menstruation, have abundant discharge with blood clots.
2. Alternation of water procedures. It is necessary to carry out a series of sitz baths alternately with hot and cold water. This procedure is permissible twice a day - in the morning and in the evening, it helps to fight congestive processes in the pelvic organs. note: if a woman is diagnosed with a malignant or benign neoplasm, then sitz baths are contraindicated.
3. Diet. If you exclude fats, carbohydrates and sugar from the diet, then the likelihood of pain during menstruation decreases significantly. But keep in mind that it is necessary to adjust the diet a month before the menstrual cycle - this method is preventive.
4. Dry heat. In the area of ​​​​the anatomical location of the uterus, you need to apply dry heat - a heated dry towel, a small bag with heated sand or salt. note: this method can cause profuse bleeding, so if there is a tendency to this phenomenon, any heating procedures are contraindicated.

Knowing that there is always pain during menstruation, you can take some measures as a preventive measure. For example, go in for sports - gynecologists are well aware that overweight women are characterized by pain during menstruation. It is enough to spend a little time every day in the gym, go swimming in the pool, and even regular exercises will give excellent results. If a woman is engaged in sedentary work, then you need to either change your work activity or provide yourself with physical activity.

Treatment of pain during menstruation folk remedies

Traditional medicine recipes that are used to relieve pain during menstruation will not be able to eliminate the cause of the pathological phenomenon. But it is quite possible to significantly alleviate your condition by taking decoctions of medicinal herbs. There are several options for preparing pain relievers:

1. Potentilla goose. Take 50 grams of dry grass and boil the decoction in a water bath (300 ml of water, warming up time - 15 minutes). Then strain the finished medicine, cool and take a quarter cup twice a day for all menstruation. Apply squeezed "cake" to the stomach (just above the pubis) with an exacerbation of the pain syndrome.
2. Elecampane. Take 500 ml of water for 3 tablespoons of dry source, boil everything in a water bath for at least 10 minutes and leave to infuse for 4 hours. Then take the resulting decoction 1 tablespoon at least 3 times a day. The course of admission: a week before the start of menstruation, during them and 2 days after the end of the discharge.
3. Dioecious nettle. This recipe can only be used in spring and summer - the medicine is prepared from nettle juice, which is diluted with water in a 1: 1 ratio and taken 1 tablespoon three times a day during menstruation.
4. Ordinary oregano. We prepare an alcohol tincture: take 100 ml of medical alcohol for 20 grams of dry oregano and infuse the finished mixture for 10 days. A week before menstruation and until they are completely over, take 30-40 drops of tincture once a day. note: this recipe is contraindicated in women with diagnosed diseases of the cardiovascular system.

If the pain during menstruation is accompanied by heavy bleeding, then it will be effective to take herbal preparations. They are all prepared according to the same scheme: 100 grams of dry collection is taken, 500 ml of water is poured and boiled over an open fire (not in a water bath) for 20 minutes. Then the decoctions are infused and taken 3 days before the onset of menstruation and throughout them. What herbs can be included in herbal preparations:

1. Potentilla erect, shepherd's purse, elecampane, oak bark, yarrow.
2. Knotweed, white mistletoe, shepherd's purse.
3. Potentilla goose, valerian root, yarrow.
4. Knotweed, field horsetail, centaury.

note: the use of any decoction from the category of "folk medicine" must be authorized by a gynecologist. In some cases, with existing serious pathological processes, it is contraindicated for a woman to take any medications without a doctor's prescription.

Pain during menstruation can be a purely physiological factor, but may indicate a pathology in the reproductive or endocrine system of the body. Therefore, self-administration of painkillers, herbal decoctions can hide the true clinical picture - the doctor will not be able to make an accurate diagnosis in a timely manner, the woman's health will inevitably deteriorate.

Tsygankova Yana Alexandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category.

In the body of a woman, there are monthly processes associated with the functioning of the reproductive organs. If everything is in order with health, then menstruation is a common physiological phenomenon, which, although inevitable, does not cause much trouble. But some women with a shudder await the onset of another torture in the form of painful periods, when all the forces and attention are focused on overcoming this condition, it is impossible to think about work, about family affairs. Such menstruation is a pathology that requires treatment.

Content:

Algomenorrhea and its types

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

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

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

Symptoms associated with painful menstruation

In addition to abdominal pain, pathological menstruation also causes:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• Strong headache;
• vegetative disorders (increased sweating, fever, dizziness, fainting);
• jumps in blood pressure, rapid pulse or cardiac arrhythmia;
• weakness, muscle and joint pain.

Possible violations of the regularity of the onset of menstruation, an increase in their duration. Blood discharge may become too intense or, conversely, scarce. There may be spotting bloody leucorrhoea between periods.

Painful sensations often occur even before the onset of menstruation (1-2 days) and disappear only with their end. The pains are constant or similar to contractions, pulling, cutting, aching.

Degrees of soreness

There are 3 degrees of severity of the course of painful periods.

Light degree characterized by short and tolerable painful sensations.

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

Severe degree associated with very severe pain, disruption of the heart, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, general weakness, 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

So called painful periods, 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, the body undergoes drastic changes in the composition of hormones.

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

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

Types of pathology

Given the cause of painful periods, there are several types of primary pathology: spasmodic, psychogenic and essential.

Spasmodic algomenorrhea. The main cause of pain is spasmodic contractions of the muscles of the uterus.

Psychogenic. Pain arises from fear of symptoms experienced once and left 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. At the same time, even a slight effect on the nerve endings causes severe pain.

Causes of painful menstruation

The causes of the primary disease are:

1. A congenital disorder in the development of connective tissue in the body due to a lack of magnesium. This disease is dangerous because it leads to a violation of the composition of the cartilage tissue. Incorrect formation of joints occurs, limbs lengthen, flat feet, scoliosis occur. Myopia, indigestion, varicose veins are also characteristic.
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 the bending of the uterus, which occurred already in the process of puberty (due to developmental disabilities or weight lifting), then after the woman gives birth to a child, her painful periods may turn into normal ones. But if there is a congenital pathology, then after childbirth it does not disappear. It is required to conduct a gynecological examination and treatment.

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 they are more common in women aged 25-30.

One of the causes of pain in secondary algomenorrhea is the presence of varicose veins in the organs of the small pelvis and abdominal cavity. Inflammation of the nerves located in the pelvic region 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 tissues of the uterus, their scarring, soldering after illnesses.

Genital infections. They can be sexually transmitted, causing the appearance of purulent inflammatory processes, leading to a violation of the cycle, exacerbating the symptoms of algomenorrhea. To get rid of such diseases (trichomoniasis, syphilis, genital herpes, gonorrhea) is possible only with the simultaneous treatment of both sexual partners.

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

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

Warning: The peculiarity is that inflammatory processes quickly spread from the external genital organs to the uterus and ovaries. The consequence of chronic diseases is the bending of the neck, coarsening of tissues, violation of the state of blood vessels, the appearance of cysts, polyps, and malignant neoplasms. At the same time, a woman has various menstrual irregularities and pains in the lower abdomen, which are aggravated during menstruation.

Tumors of the uterus(myoma, cancer). Soreness and the unusual nature of menstruation is often the only sign of their formation. A growing tumor compresses the vessels, as well as the nerve endings located in the uterus and neighboring organs. The shape of the uterus may be disturbed, and stagnation of menstrual blood occurs in it. Swelling occurs, muscle elasticity is lost. Uterine contractions become painful. With the growth of the tumor, the manifestations intensify.

Endometriosis. This disease is associated with endometrial hyperplasia and its germination in other organs. At the same time, the processes of the cycle are shifted in time of onset, menstruation becomes painful, prolonged, hormonal disorders 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 the epithelial cells in the cervix, a violation of the ability to stretch the cervix, a possible change in its shape, and a decrease in uterine contractility.

Hormone disruption. It can be caused by taking hormonal drugs, using hormonal contraceptives, malfunctioning of the ovaries, thyroid gland, pituitary gland. Metabolic disorders and its consequences (diabetes, 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, while it deviates from its usual position, which leads to pain during menstruation due to uterine contractions. It is also possible to change its shape, the formation of 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 a blood test for hormones and atypical cells, allow us to draw conclusions about the presence of diseases. After examining the organs using ultrasound, tomography methods, it becomes obvious whether there are developmental pathologies or neoplasms in the uterus. If necessary, their nature is specified by biopsy. The choice of treatment methods depends on the type of disease, the age of the woman, the severity of the pathology.

Treatment of primary algomenorrhea

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

Well helps physiotherapy (electrophoresis for the introduction of novocaine in the area of ​​the solar plexus), as well as acupuncture. Drug therapy is prescribed: taking sedatives (valerian, relanium), painkillers (spasmalgon, no-shpa), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, butadione), vitamin E.

Plant-based preparations are used to normalize hormonal levels (remens, klimadinon). For the same purpose, hormonal contraceptives (anteovin, ovidon) are prescribed.

With painful periods, it is necessary to keep a menstrual calendar, which records the intensity, location and nature of the pain. Every 3 months it is important to visit a gynecologist. If nothing is done, then the condition will only worsen over time, a mild degree of violation will turn into a severe one.

Treatment of secondary algomenorrhea

If it is established that the cause of painful menstruation is diseases of the genital organs, then treatment is carried out with drugs of the appropriate action (antibiotics, antifungal, antiviral agents).

Progesterone-based drugs are used that suppress ovulation, reduce intrauterine pressure, as well as the intensity of uterine contractions. In this case, the use of oral contraceptives gives a good effect. Successfully treated with duphaston.

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

Physiotherapy methods (electrophoresis, therapeutic baths) allow you to deal with inflammatory processes. A popular method of eliminating menstrual pain is hirudotherapy (the application of leeches that suck blood, reducing tension in the uterus). The saliva of leeches contains painkillers and anti-inflammatory substances.

If the doctor does not find contraindications, then with such a pathology it is permissible to use traditional medicine: soothing herbal teas with oregano, mint, muscle-relaxing beet and pumpkin juices. Decoctions and infusions with anti-inflammatory properties are used (from burdock leaves, acorns and herbal preparations).

Video: How to relieve painful periods