Why are periods such a pain for some women?
Better support for painful periods is one of the top priorities for women’s health in 2024, according to the Government.
Plans are in place to expand its women’s health hubs, where women can access information and support. As well as painful and heavy periods, the hubs will help with menopause, pelvic pain, maternity and post-natal care, plus contraception.
Here’s a look at some conditions that cause painful periods...
Endometriosis
This is a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, resulting in chronic inflammation of affected areas, plus scar tissue and adhesions.
Dr Vivek Nama, consultant gynaecologist at The Door W4, says: “The classical symptoms of endometriosis are the five Ds, which are dyspareunia – pain during sex, which is often very deep; dysmenorrhoea – painful periods; dyschezia – pain while passing bowel movements, especially during menstruation; dysuria – pain while passing urine, again especially during menstruation, and a dull aching pain in the lower part of the stomach, especially between periods.” Severe bloating is also common.
Adenomyosis
“Adenomyosis and endometriosis are very closely related,” says Dr Nama. “Adenomyosis is a condition where the lining of the womb starts to grow into the muscle in the wall of the womb. This often causes bleeding into the muscle, which causes severe, painful periods.”
Dr Samantha Wild, from Bupa Health Clinics, adds this can often be “severe sharp, stabbing pain”. Another tell-tale characteristic is the uterus appearing ‘bulky’ and possibly enlarged during scans.
Fibroids
Non-cancerous growths that develop in and around the uterus, fibroids vary in size and severity. Dr Wild explains: “Heavy and painful periods are common for people who have fibroids, along with tummy and lower back pain. You may experience increased pelvic pressure, heavier blood flow, often with clots and severe cramps.”
Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are very common and don’t always cause problems, but they can also be a medical concern. “Ovarian cysts can be associated with painful periods, particularly if they are larger cysts,” says Dr Wild. “Although, ovarian cysts can be present, and the person may have no idea until one bursts. When one bursts, it can cause severe pain and swelling of the abdomen.”
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
“PID is an infection of the female reproductive tract that is most commonly caused by untreated sexually transmitted infections,” says Dr Wild. “PID causes heavy and painful periods, and in some cases can lead to severe pain in the stomach.”
What should you do?
Dr Wild says: “When period pain is so debilitating that it impacts your day-to-day life, it’s important to see a medical professional, who will be able to look into why you are experiencing it and suggest a treatment plan.”
Treatments include pain management strategies and medication, as well as hormonal therapies and contraceptive methods which may help, while surgery may be an option.