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A menstrual period is an integral part of the monthly cycle of menstruation, where the uterine lining of a woman sheds through vaginal bleeding. Many women experience discomfort like pelvic pain or cramps during their menstrual period. This condition is known as ‘dysmenorrhea’. This pain can range from mild to severe and radiate to the abdomen, back or thighs. This usually subsides in 2 or 3 days.
This blog takes you through the different parts of the menstrual cycle that include ‘menstrual period’, ‘safe period’ and ‘fertile period’. It also takes a deeper look into the common yet concerning issue of painful periods.
Consult our top Gynaecologist at the Manipal Hospitals Salt Lake, Kolkata, for early diagnosis and expert treatments.
Synopsis
What is a Menstrual Period?
A ‘menstrual period’ is an essential part of a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle, which prepares her body for pregnancy or conception. Understanding what a menstrual period is can help elucidate the reasons behind painful periods.
The menstrual cycle is driven by hormones. Each month, the uterine lining thickens to prepare for pregnancy. If fertilisation does not occur, it breaks down and exits the body as menstrual blood. One of the ovaries releases an egg in the middle of this cycle. This is known as ‘ovulation’. If the egg does not get fertilised by a sperm, it leads to the breakdown of the thickened uterine lining. This bleeding is the ‘period’. The entire process is controlled by the hormones from the brain and the ovaries.
A menstrual cycle begins on the first day of the period and ends the day before the next one starts. The typical length of the cycle, for a particular individual, can be determined by tracking the cycle for a few consecutive months. Although this cycle varies in length from person to person, the duration of bleeding (menstrual period) typically lasts between 3 and 7 days. Menstrual periods normally occur every 21 to 35 days. A slight variation in this pattern can sometimes be seen in individuals going through adolescence or perimenopause.
Understanding the ‘Fertile Period’ in the Menstrual Cycle
The fertile period in the menstrual cycle, also known as the ‘fertile window’, is another significant phase for a woman. This phase lasts about 6 days, including the day of ovulation. So, a woman has the maximum potential to get pregnant during this time.
The ‘fertile period’ in the menstrual cycle is crucial for those tracking fertility or avoiding pregnancy. This period is different for everyone and cannot be pinpointed in general, as the length of menstrual cycles differs. Mostly, this happens around the middle of the ongoing cycle (around 10-16 days before the next menstrual period starts). For a typical 28-day cycle, the day of ovulation generally falls about 14 days before the next period starts.
Safe Period in the Menstrual Cycle
The safe period in the menstrual cycle is the phase where a woman is least likely to conceive. These are known to be the non-fertile days for a woman. Tracking the safe period in the menstrual cycle can also help reduce anxiety about an unplanned pregnancy.
Pregnancy can be planned or prevented based on the different phases of the menstrual cycle. This is known as natural family planning. But the safe period method might become less effective and more challenging for women with irregular periods, as ovulation may not occur consistently. The same holds for women whose cycles are shorter, or ovulation occurs earlier than expected.
To calculate the safe period in one’s menstrual cycle, it is advised to consider the length of the cycle over a few months. Subtracting 18 days from the shortest cycle and 11 days from the longest cycle can determine the beginning and end of the fertile window, respectively. The safe period includes the days outside this fertile window.
What are the Causes of Painful Periods?
Painful periods can be caused by either primary dysmenorrhea or secondary dysmenorrhea.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea, or the common menstrual cramps, is natural and harmless. This can happen due to the contraction of the uterus to shed its lining. This contraction is triggered by the sensitivity towards the over-production of a hormone called ‘prostaglandins’, which is responsible for the muscle contraction in the uterus.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea
Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs due to an underlying condition; these causes include:
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Endometriosis is the growth of uterine-like tissue outside the uterus.
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Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus.
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An infection of the reproductive organs is called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
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Adenomyosis is the growth of tissues in the uterine lining into the muscular walls of the uterus.
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Cervical stenosis occurs when the opening of the cervix is small enough to impede the menstrual flow, causing pressure on the uterus and inducing pain.
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The placement of intrauterine devices (IUDs), especially those made of copper, can play a role.
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Sometimes stress and anxiety can also induce pain.
When can Pain Signal a Problem?
Period pain, to an extent, especially if due to primary dysmenorrhea, is not a matter of concern and can be easily managed at home. But certain signs can signal a more severe problem that might call for immediate evaluation by a doctor. These warning signs could be:
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Heavy bleeding
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Irregular cycles
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Excruciating pain
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Fever with period pain
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Pain while passing urine or stool
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Pain during sexual intercourse
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Pain that interferes with daily activities
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Bleeding or spotting between periods
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Pelvic pain between periods
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Period blood that is pink, watery or thick
Managing Painful Periods
Period pain can be managed in different ways depending on the exact cause. But any underlying condition contributing to the pain should be treated first to help pain relief remedies work better.
Home remedies
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Application of heat to the lower abdomen can relax the uterine muscles and improve blood flow.
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Gentle exercise like yoga, swimming, or walking can relieve pain naturally by releasing endorphins.
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Practising relaxation techniques like meditation or breathing exercises can control the level of stress and eventually reduce the pain.
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Staying hydrated can prevent bloating.
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Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin E and B1 supplements are believed to ease period pain.
Over-the-counter Treatments
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Certain NSAIDs (on prescription) can effectively reduce pain and inflammation.
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Hormonal birth control methods prescribed by a doctor, including pills or intrauterine devices, can control hormone levels and help reduce period pain.
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Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists can be prescribed by doctors in case of severe conditions.
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Surgery can be an option in extreme cases like endometriosis.
Lifestyle Modifications
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A diet that is low in fat, high in fibre, and rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains can help reduce cramps.
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Alternative therapies like acupuncture or acupressure can provide relief.
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Sipping on herbal teas (like chamomile, ginger, or cinnamon) can soothe the discomfort.
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Applying essential oils (like lavender or clary sage, applied with carrier oils) calms the mind and muscles.
Explore More of Our Blogs: Ectopic Pregnancy: Causes, Warning Signs, Diagnosis & Treatment
Conclusion
Painful periods can be physically and emotionally exhausting. At the same time, they are also an important signal that the body sends to warn us. Paying close attention to these symptoms and tracking the menstrual cycle can help an individual understand and identify potential underlying issues and take proactive steps towards better health and comfort.
It is always advisable to track your menstrual cycle to get a proper insight into your menstrual period and your overall well-being. If you or a close one is struggling with period pain in silence, do not wait! Visit the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at The Manipal Hospitals Salt Lake, Kolkata, for precise diagnosis and prompt expert care.
FAQ's
Usually, cramps start a day or two before the period and may last for two to three days. If any cramp lasts longer than that or begins well before the period starts, one should consult a specialist without any delay.
Painful periods do not always affect fertility directly. However, any underlying condition, like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, can impact fertility.
Yes. Many women experience radiating pain in their lower back, thighs, or even the pelvic area due to the way their uterus contracts and the surrounding nerves and muscles react.
This is caused by the hormone ‘prostaglandins’, which not only trigger uterine contractions but can also affect the digestive system, leading to nausea, loose stools, or even vomiting in some cases.
These are called menstrual migraines and are triggered by hormonal fluctuations, especially the drop in estrogen, just before the period starts. They can be mild to severe and are often accompanied by other PMS symptoms.
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