Also known as dysmenorrhea, menstrual cramps are common side effects of having your period. They cause mild to acute discomfort in the lower abdomen and typically last one to four days. When the pain is severe, menstrual cramps can interfere with day-to-day activities and may even require a trip to a women’s health clinic. Review this brief guide to understand period cramps and when to see a physician.

How to Determine If Your Cramps Are Severe

Even when they’re not acute, menstrual cramps can be painful and inconvenient. In addition to pressure in your lower abdomen, you may experience nausea, headaches, fatigue, loose stools, or dizziness.

In most cases, moderate pain starts a day or two before you get your period and subsides within 48 hours. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen typically work well to relieve the discomfort. 

On the other hand, severe cramps may not be eased by the use of OTC products. The pain may start earlier and last longer, and it’s often accompanied by heavy bleeding or clotting. Severe cramps can make it extremely difficult to eat, go to work, and perform other daily tasks.

What Causes Severe Menstrual Cramps?

Endometriosis

In people with endometriosis, the tissue that forms the lining of the uterus is on the outside rather than the inside. This causes heavy periods that sometimes last longer than seven days and come with extreme pelvic pain. Endometriosis can also cause pain during intercourse, bleeding between periods, and difficulty conceiving.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Caused by a hormonal imbalance, this common condition affects one in 10 women of childbearing age. In addition to heavy, prolonged, and painful periods, symptoms of PCOS can include weight gain, difficulty losing weight, excessive facial and body hair, and acne.

Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are noncancerous masses that develop in the uterus. While some women experience no discomfort from these growths, others may experience intense pelvic pain, periods lasting more than a week, heavy bleeding, or constipation.

How to Manage Pain

If you experience debilitating menstrual cramps, you should see a doctor or visit a women’s health clinic. They’ll tell you if a more serious issue is causing the pain and provide medication to help control the symptoms. For less intense cramps, applying heat to the abdomen can help relieve pain, as can massage and gentle exercises such as walking or yoga.

If you’re experiencing severe cramps, get in touch with Tug River Health Association in Gary, WV. For nearly 45 years, this nonprofit medical center and women’s health clinic has provided health care services to people throughout McDowell and Wyoming counties. Visit their website or call (304) 448-2101 to schedule an appointment.