Dysmenorrhea During Pregnancy

The idea of ​​dysmenorrhea during pregnancy is often confusing, as the term refers to pain associated with menstruation. It usually appears during the first day of a period and two or three days after it.

This uterine pain manifests as cramps and these are also common during pregnancy. This is because they are the result of the hormonal changes a woman goes through during this phase.

Dysmenorrhea is a severe cramping that sometimes occurs intermittently and then is sharp and continuous again. The pain can spread to the legs or back and cause nausea, headache, constipation and diarrhea.

Types of Dysmenorrhea

There are two types of dysmenorrhea:

• primary
• secondary

The first condition occurs in young women, along with their menstrual cycle. It tends to disappear over time. The secondary condition is related to genital malformations, but its intensity increases with age.

The percentage of women of reproductive age who suffer from dysmenorrhea ranges from 25% to 60% of the female population.

You can largely control this type of discomfort or pain, although it can be disabling at times. Especially when the pain becomes more intense, dysmenorrhea is one of the main causes of absenteeism in women.

Dysmenorrhea During Pregnancy

A woman undergoes all kinds of hormonal changes during pregnancy. The female body undergoes changes that are influenced by fluctuations in the blood concentration of certain substances.

Therefore, dysmenorrhea is common during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester (Spanish link). However, it can persist throughout the pregnancy period.

This type of pain is similar to menstrual cramps, even when there is no bleeding. It is a feeling that comes from the changes that the uterus undergoes. This is related to the process of preparing for childbirth. However, the pain subsides as the pregnancy progresses under normal conditions.

Cramps are more common during the first trimester due to the accelerated development of the baby at that stage. They feel like stretches on the sides of the abdomen and are caused by the expansion of the uterus (Spanish link). As the organ grows, it forces the muscles and ligaments to increase their elasticity.

A pregnant woman may also experience this type of pain during the second trimester. When this happens, it’s due to the large round arm muscle being overworked – this is the muscle that supports the weight of the uterus. The discomfort usually feels like a stab in the lower abdomen. It is also common that you get cramps after exercise.

Tips for if you suffer from dysmenorrhea

Chronic dysmenorrhea during pregnancy can hinder you from enjoying this period of your life. You should pay attention to the symptoms and, if they are not troubling, follow some tips to get relief.

A common tip is to slightly adjust your diet, but always after consulting your midwife. For example, you may need to cut out caffeine as it is too stimulant. Your doctor can also prescribe appropriate supplements based on the general recommendations for folic acid and iron.

Other suggestions are:

• relax in the shower or in a bathtub with warm or hot water
• use heating pads on the abdomen, at a suitable temperature

• relaxing massages of the agent and the environment
• sleeping on your side, with your legs bent

In addition, try to move a little if you have pain in your lower abdomen. There are certain range of motion exercises that have been specially developed for pregnant women that can be helpful in these cases. Remember to always stay well hydrated.

When to Worry About Dysmenorrhea During Pregnancy

It is a serious matter if the dysmenorrhea does not go away on its own during pregnancy or if the measures mentioned above do not provide relief. So consult your midwife if the pain becomes too severe.

Especially go to the gynecologist if you have severe pain that does not go away or pain and contractions in the lower abdomen. You should also see your doctor if you have vaginal cramps, bleeding, or discharge, or if you experience gastrointestinal upset or dizziness.

Bleeding accompanied by discomfort or cramping is always a cause for concern. Each trimester has its own common conditions, so knowing how to spot them early will reduce the health risk to yourself and your baby. Have your midwife’s emergency numbers handy!