Menstrual Cramps — Is It Time to Seek Treatment?

Most ladies agree that menstrual cramps are their least favorite part about being a woman! They’re nothing short of a nuisance that could ruin your mood, plans, and everything in between. Any day is a bad day when it comes to period pain.

However, menstrual cramps don’t always need medical treatment. Let’s talk about when you need to see a doctor:

What are menstrual cramps?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that more than 50% of menstruating women experience cramping during their first few days. However, in most cases, cramps are not much to worry about and can be managed on your own.

Generally speaking, the pain takes place as a result of contractions in the uterus. The condition is known as dysmenorrhea and can be categorized as primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea happens as a result of period cramps. These are caused by natural chemicals that are found in the uterine lining. On the other hand, secondary dysmenorrhea stems from a reproductive disorder and often begins later in life. This type of menstrual pain tends to worsen over time.

What is normal pain like?

There is no fixed definition for what menstrual cramps feel like or should feel like. It’s different for every female. For some, it’s a constant dull ache in the lower stomach. For others, it could be sudden bouts of shooting pain that also stems down to the lower back and thighs. For some, the symptoms reduce in intensity as they age. Some women experience the symptoms while they’re on their period. For others, they may start before the cycle begins. There truly is no standardized ‘normal.’

In most cases, the pain subsides by using a heating pad, getting into a hot bath, or a massage.

 

When should you speak to a gynecologist?

There is a difference between uncomfortable cramps and a throbbing pain that radiates down to the leg. The latter requires medical attention.

Other than pain, the flow also matters. According to the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research, the average amount of flow collected by your tampon during a cycle is two tablespoons (30 ml). For most women, it could be anywhere between a single spot to about two cups. If you feel like there has been a sudden change in the flow or your periods are getting heavier every month, you need to see a gynecologist.

Ideally, you should also see a gynecologist if you feel like your cramps last longer than two days, interfere with your daily routine, and there has been a change in how your cramps feel. You should also seek professional help if you experience cramps outside of your period, or the pain doesn’t respond to OTC medication.

The women’s healthcare specialists at Natomas Family Practice are always an appointment away. If your period cramps are bothering you, reach out to Nurse Practitioner Taggar now. For more information about urgent medical care services in Sacramento, contact them today at 916-928-0856.