Normal Menstrual Pain Or Endometriosis? Know What Your Cramps Indicate

Experiencing abdominal and pelvic pain while you are on your periods is very natural. This pain is commonly referred to as menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea and is likely to be experienced by women before or during their periods. This usually begins with ovulation and is triggered by the elevated levels of prostaglandins-compounds which are released from the lining of the uterus. Prostaglandins play a crucial role in regulating a healthy menstrual cycle by helping the uterus to contract and relax, thereby enabling the endometrium to detach and flow out of your body in the form of menstrual blood. However, excess of prostaglandins can lead to strong contractions and decreased blood flow which results in a reduced supply of oxygen to the uterus which can be very painful. The problem is so common that is likely to affect every 3 out of 4 women on their periods. Over the years, every woman gets used to this pain and learns how to manage it.

Now menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea can be broadly classified into two categories;

• Primary dysmenorrhea, which refers to the pain caused by the contraction of the uterus.
• Secondary dysmenorrhea, which refers to the menstrual pain that has another underlying cause such as endometriosis.

As per the best endometriosis surgeons in Delhi, India, owing to the lack of proper knowledge women are not able to differentiate between the two different types and often mistake the latter for normal period cramps. This ignorance eventually results in severe health complications as endometriosis is a chronic health issue and requires immediate medical attention. Endometriosis is a progressive problem that spreads just like cancer.

Why endometriosis is a cause of concern?

Endometriosis is a very aggressive disease marked by the abnormal growth of endometrium in the surrounding organs and structures like the fallopian tubes, ovaries or pelvis. Unlike the normal endometrial lining that detaches itself and flows out of the body, this keeps on accumulating and eventually results in the formation of endometrial cysts, commonly referred to as chocolate cysts. When these cysts rupture, its contents fall on the nearby organs and structures and they start to stick together resulting in the formation of a consolidated mass which is accompanied by chronic pain, inflammation and swelling. This hinders the normal functioning of the affected organs and gives rise to various reproductive complications.

Endometriosis pain treatment in India is affordable and offered at all the leading hospitals.

How to differentiate between normal cramps and endometriosis?

It is rather difficult to determine whether your cramps are associated with your menstruation or a serious problem like endometriosis. However, you should look out for the below-mentioned symptoms and seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any of these:

• Experiencing chronic pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Experiencing abdominal and pelvic pain while urinating or passing stools
• Excessive pelvic pain in between periods
• Fatigue and general body weakness
• Digestive issues like nausea, diarrhoea, constipation and bloating

Also if you can relate to any of the following factors, it is better to not take your cramps lightly:

• Early menstruation or late menopause
• Short menstruation cycles with each lasting for about 27 days or less
• Heavy blood flow that lasts for a week or even longer or very restricted flow
• Elevated estrogen levels due to hormonal therapies
• Low body mass index
• Abnormalities or defects in the reproductive tract
• A family history of endometriosis
• Never being pregnant

Proper diagnosis for better results

Once you share your concern with a specialist, she will start the physical examination and detailed screening to detect any abnormality and determine the root cause of your problem. A pelvic examination can help to detect cysts and scars. Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound may be performed for clear imaging and easy identification.

Once the diagnosis is carried out, your doctor will recommend a proper treatment protocol depending upon the adversity of your condition. If you are planning to undergo severe endometriosis treatment in Delhi, you should first refer to the endometriosis treatment videos available on Medflick as this will help you to make an informed decision.