You don’t have to live with painful periods. We listen and take your concerns seriously. Let us help you in your search for solutions.
Painful periods are menstrual periods with severe and frequent cramps and pain. While some mild cramps and pain may occur during your period, consistent severe cramps and pain aren’t normal. You need to make an appointment with one of our providers to determine the causes of extreme pain and cramps.
What causes painful periods?
When an underlying condition causes painful periods, it’s often endometriosis which can affect women and even teenagers. This is a condition where tissue from the lining of the uterus shows up outside the uterus. Endometriosis often causes internal bleeding, infection, and pelvic pain.
Other causes of painful periods include:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Uterine fibroids
- Abnormal pregnancy such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
- Infection, tumors, or polyps in the pelvic cavity
What are the symptoms of a painful period?
Symptoms may include cramping or pain in the lower abdomen, low back pain, pain spreading down the legs, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, weakness, fainting, or headaches.
How are painful periods diagnosed?
To diagnose what is causing your painful periods, we will ask about your health history and do a physical and pelvic exam. Depending on your health history and our exam we may recommend further tests.
How are painful periods treated?
Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, general health and the severity of the condition. Treatments may include NSAIDS, acetaminophen, birth control pills, hormone treatment, dietary changes, vitamins, exercise, heat, or massage. In some cases such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, surgery may be your best option.