Why Are Periods So Painful?

Many of us have experienced painful periods at least once. But why does this happen? Let's delve into the basics of menstruation first.

In the U.S., the average age for a girl to start her period is 12, though it can vary significantly, starting as early as 8 or as late as 16. Our experiences with menstruation are not uniform either.

So, why do we menstruate? It's not merely a few days of discomfort each month but a process of cleansing our system to prepare for a new cycle. Although we consider the first day of bleeding as the start of the menstrual cycle, it's technically the conclusion. The rest of the cycle involves processes that aren't visible (though they can often be felt). To put it simply, an egg develops and is released from the ovary. If it doesn't meet a sperm, menstruation begins. But why? The uterus has been preparing a nurturing environment for the potential embryo, and without fertilization, it must discard this "nest," leading to menstruation.

This shedding process can explain the pain, as it involves the uterus contracting to expel its lining. These cramps are essentially mini-contractions, similar to those experienced during childbirth, affecting not just the uterus but also surrounding muscles like the pelvic floor, adductors, and abdominals.

Moreover, the entire pelvic area can become swollen, a sensation not just in your imagination but a result of increased levels of progesterone, which prepares the uterus for pregnancy. This can also cause breast tenderness, a sense of heaviness in the lower abdomen, and pain in the uterus or vagina.

How can you manage this pain? For muscle contractions, relaxation techniques such as wearing loose clothing, using a hot pack, and adopting soothing postures can help. To alleviate the feeling of heaviness, try lying down with a wedge under your pelvis to lift the gravity's effect on the area.

Of course, at Pelvic Fleur Rehab, Livermore, I can help to address this pain and manage muscle relaxation!