There comes a time in every girl's childhood when she is transformed into a woman, and with that change she must deal with the problem of menstrual, or period cramps. Dysmenorrhea, to give the problem its medical term, affects every woman every month to a varying degree.
Some women are able to cope quite well with the pain dysmenorrhea causes, finding they suffer from only light cramping and a comparatively pain free period every month for a short amount of time. Others discover that they suffer from heavy bleeding and seriously agonizing period cramps every thirty or so days, depending on their menstrual cycle.
Likewise, the pain reported by women during their period differs wildly. Some consider it a dull, throbbing pain which is constantly affecting them during the day and making it difficult to relax or sit without awkward discomfort, while others find sharp, shooting or burning pains when it is their time of the month.
The pain may not be localized around the uterus or vagina. Often it relocates to the surrounding areas, moving from the lower abdomen around to the lower back or even the thighs or knees. Dizziness, nausea and vomiting can be common problems in the most painful of menstrual cycles.
The first thing to know is that dysmenorrhea is completely normal and every woman suffers from some form of it. Many may not complain about it, but rest assured - it happens to them, no matter how light they feel it, and it is an entirely normal thing. Sadly, such pains are part and parcel of being a woman.
However there are some things which aggravate the pain and some treatments which can help allay the discomfort somewhat. Both an increase and a decrease in the level of cramping can sometimes be affected by the kind of contraception you use.
Copper inter uterine devices (IUDs) have been known to cause severe cramping for some women who are not used to this form of contraception. Those women who have changed from an alternative form of contraception to an IUD may find that they suffer more painful than normal menstrual pains for the first few months of usage. Sometimes these will pass; other times they will not. If they do not pass, it is best to try an alternative contraceptive method.
On the other hand, the contraceptive pill has been known to regulate and make easier difficult menstrual cycles. It can reduce the amount of stomach and womb cramping which is felt month on month, and reduces flow and bleeding when spotting.
It is difficult to chart or quantify the pain felt because every woman is different, and the kinds of pain felt are often so different. However if you feel you cannot cope with your period cramps, then it is important that you visit your doctor to discuss the alternative methods of contraception or any form of treatment which can be taken to try and reduce the levels of pain. They must be lived with, but should not be debilitating.
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