Painful Periods Specialist

What causes painful periods?

Painful periods are the result of severe menstrual cramps that cause throbbing or radiating pain in your lower abdomen, back, or down the back of your legs. It’s normal to feel some cramping as your uterus tightens and relaxes to allow blood to leave your uterus. However, severe cramping may be the result of chemicals that your uterus releases to increase the strength of uterine contractions.

Cramps that interfere with your daily life during your period are known as dysmenorrhea. They are often the result of an underlying medical condition, such as:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) from an infection in your reproductive organs
• Cervical stenosis, in which the cervix opening is very small
• Adenomyosis, in which the lining of your uterus grows into the walls of the uterus

You may be at risk for painful periods if you’re 30 years old or younger, started your period before age 11, or bleed heavily during your periods. Women with a family history of dysmenorrhea are also at a higher risk of having painful periods.

When should I see a gynecologist for painful periods?

If you experience painful cramps every month and regularly miss work or other activities as a result, you should seek medical attention. Additionally, if painful periods begin after the age of 25, or if your symptoms get progressively worse, Dr. Enriquez can perform an exam to find out if you have another condition that’s contributing to your pain.

Painful periods are typically treatable for long-term relief. You may need to undergo diagnostic testing, such as ultrasound imaging, so Dr. Enriquez can get a clear picture of your uterus and other reproductive organs.

For your convenience, Lake Mary Gynecology is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic testing equipment and a highly trained, compassionate medical team, so you don’t have to go to another facility for testing or procedures.

What are the treatments for painful periods?

You may be able to get relief from painful periods with over-the-counter medication or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs. Birth control pills that contain hormones can also help reduce the severity of painful menstrual cramping.

In more serious situations, or when menstrual pain is the result of an underlying condition such as endometriosis or fibroids, Dr. Enriquez may recommend a surgical procedure to correct the problem.

Many surgical procedures are laparoscopic and minimally invasive. At Lake Mary Gynecology, you can even see the procedure on a screen as it takes place. In severe situations and if you’re not planning to have children, a hysterectomy may be a permanent solution to relieving your painful periods.

You don’t have to live in pain. Call Lake Mary Gynecology to schedule an exam or click online to request an appointment.