Menstrual cramps are a problem for many women every month. We explain the causes and how you can get rid of the complaints.
What are menstrual cramps?
Many women suffer especially before and during menstrual periods due to menstrual cramps. The most common is the so-called premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and severe menstrual pain ("dysmernorrhea"). Symptoms include headache and severe abdominal pain. But an irregular cycle and heavy menstrual periods are also part of the menstrual cramps.
Causes: Primary and secondary menstrual cramps
There are two different types of menstrual cramps. These also determine the causes of the complaints:
Primary menstrual cramps
In the primary menstrual cramps, the cause of the menstrual pain lies with the cycle itself. On the one hand, the body releases so-called prostaglandins – these are pain messengers. Second, the uterine muscles contract in order to be able to reject the endometrium built up for a possible pregnancy if no egg is fertilized – there is a period. The contraction of the muscles disturbs the blood supply to the uterus, which in turn leads to pain.
Secondary menstrual cramps
With secondary menstrual complaints, the menstrual pain can be reduced attributed to another illness or are caused by mechanical contraceptives (e.g. spiral). The following diseases can be a cause:
- Endometriosis (in almost 50 percent of all cases)
- high blood pressure
- Hormonal disorders, e.g. B. due to thyroid disease or lack of hormone production in the ovaries
- Drug side effects
- Cysts on the ovaries
- Uterine diseases
- Malnutrition
- anorexia
- Psychological factors, e.g. B increased stress
- General lifestyle, e.g. Need
Symptoms of menstrual cramps
Stepping through severe menstrual pain or dysmernorrhea often the following symptoms on:
Help: How can I relieve severe menstrual pain?
There are medications that can alleviate typical menstrual cramps. But if the menstrual pain isn't too severe, Many women also successfully rely on gentle home remedies. These include:
- Heat, e.g. B. by hot water bottles, cherry stone pillows or baths
- Relaxation, e.g. B. through autogenic training, yoga or meditation
- Herbal tea, especially chamomile
- Slight movement
- Herbal medicines – often used for. B. chaste tree, which can regulate the cycle
Would you like more information about menstruation? We explain the importance of spotting instead of periods. Your period is missing? You can find out more here!
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