Dysmenorrhea refers to abnormally painful cramping during one’s menstrual cycle. It affects 40-90% of people and often leads to regular absenteeism from work, school, and social engagements. Some risk factors that can promote dysmenorrhea include smoking, a low body-mass index (BMI), early menarche (onset <12 years of age), irregular or heavy menses, poor intake of calcium or magnesium, or a history of trauma.
Many who experience severe cramping during their menses believe it to be normal, but chronic severe cramping is not something you should have to live with. Sometimes, the root cause of dysmenorrhea is a condition known as Endometriosis, whereby there is abnormal growth of uterine tissue.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy can be quite helpful in managing muscle and connective tissue tightness that occurs during menses. Patients with dysmenorrhea may benefit most if treated during their cycles so to better manage symptoms while they are present. It is also important for people experiencing severe menstrual pain to continue seeking medical advice until the root cause of the pain is discovered.
