In primary dysmenorrhea, you can thank high levels of prostaglandins, which are hormone like substances that promote inflammation, stimulate contractions, ischemia and nerve endings leading to cramping and pain. When the endometrial lining sheds during menstruation, prostaglandins are released from the endometrial cells. Research has shown that women who experience more severe dysmenorrhea have higher levels of prostaglandins.
Other risk factors associated with primary dysmenorrhea include early age onset of menarche, long menstrual periods, smoking, obesity, alcohol consumption and increased emotional stress.
In secondary dysmenorrhea, pain is often associated with an underlying pathological condition such as endometriosis.
If you are aware of an underlying condition I encourage you to seek individualised practitioner support with managing these symptoms, there are many natural, evidence based ways to manage secondary dysmenorrhea so you don’t have to suffer with pain each month.
___
Ema Taylor is Degree Qualified Naturopath, Nutritionist and Certified Fertility Awareness Educator. Her mission is to help women understand their miraculous body, find harmony with their hormones and optimise their fertility so you they live a more empowered life.Â
You can follow Ema at @emataylornaturopathy and browse her website to find out first about courses and special events.