Many women experience significant discomfort when their period arrives. It’s not just about feeling down emotionally, but the body also goes through various changes that can lead to headaches, stomach pain, and notably, lower back pain. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of lower back pain during menstruation and provide six effective methods to alleviate the discomfort.

Causes of Lower Back Pain During Menstruation

1. Functional Dysmenorrhea (Primary Menstrual Pain)

According to Dr. Stacey Mismas, a professor of Obstetrics and Reproductive Biology at Michigan State University, around 40-50% of women experience some form of lower back pain during their period. However, the actual number may be much higher. This pain is often related to functional dysmenorrhea, which refers to abdominal and pelvic pain accompanying menstruation. More than 80% of women experience this pain during their periods.

Dr. Lisa Masterson, a renowned OB/GYN and founder of Ocean Oasis Day Spa, explains that this type of pain is linked to hormonal changes, specifically prostaglandins. These are the hormones responsible for the uterine lining shedding and causing uterine contractions. These contractions often lead to pressure in the pelvis and back, which can result in significant discomfort. Mild cases can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers, but in severe cases, it can disrupt daily life.

2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea (Pain Due to Reproductive Disorders)

Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs due to underlying reproductive conditions, most commonly endometriosis. Dr. Masterson explains that endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often around the ovaries or pelvis. This can cause chronic pelvic and back pain, even after menstruation has ended. Additionally, conditions like uterine fibroids, which are benign tumors in the uterus, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can exacerbate menstrual pain.

3. Other Conditions Leading to Back Pain During Periods

Infections like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ovarian cysts, and fluid accumulation in the pelvis can also intensify back pain. These conditions cause inflammation, which can make menstrual cramps and back pain more severe. If the pain continues beyond the typical menstrual cycle or becomes increasingly painful, consulting a gynecologist is highly recommended.

When Does Back Pain Start?

Sometimes, lower back pain may even begin before menstruation, which is less common but still relevant. This is often linked to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which includes symptoms like breast tenderness, bloating, and headaches. PMS can escalate into premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), causing severe mood swings, depression, and physical pain such as abdominal and lower back aches.

6 Ways to Relieve Lower Back Pain During Menstruation

1. Medical Treatment

If your pain is caused by functional dysmenorrhea, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help ease the pain. For conditions like endometriosis or PCOS, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or progesterone injections can reduce menstrual flow and alleviate associated pain. Dr. Mismas suggests physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage, and acupuncture as additional treatment options for moderate pain. However, if the pain is severe and chronic, it may require specialized care from a pelvic pain expert.

2. Hot and Cold Therapy

Applying heat, such as through a hot bath or heating pad, can relieve lower back pain. Alternating hot and cold packs on the affected area can help muscles relax and reduce inflammation, providing relief from pain.

3. Yoga or Pilates

Engaging in yoga or Pilates can help stabilize the core, easing both menstrual and lower back pain. Research indicates that yoga is not only effective for chronic back pain but also works similarly to physical therapy in relieving muscle tension and spasms.

4. Dietary Adjustments

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can be beneficial in reducing menstrual cramps and back pain. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, as well as high-protein and low-sugar diets, help reduce pelvic and back pain. It's important to note that alcohol can aggravate inflammation, so it’s best to minimize alcohol intake during this time.

5. Choosing the Right Sanitary Products

Sometimes, your menstrual products may contribute to your back pain. If you have heavy flow, larger tampons are fine, but for those with lighter flows, using larger tampons can cause additional pelvic and back pain. Always opt for sanitary products that suit your body’s needs and size.

6. Quit Smoking

Smoking is known to increase the risk of chronic pain, and it can make period-related pain worse. Giving up smoking can improve overall health, including pain management during menstruation.

Conclusion

Lower back pain during menstruation is a common issue that affects many women, but it is not something you have to suffer through. Understanding the causes of this pain, such as functional dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea (caused by conditions like endometriosis and fibroids), can help you address the root cause. With the right combination of medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and natural therapies, you can manage your menstrual discomfort and improve your quality of life.

If you're looking for a more comfortable solution during your menstrual cycle, Bezbezz disposable period underwear can help you stay dry and comfortable while easing your pain. Choose a product that supports you, so you don’t have to worry about discomfort during your period!