Caring for women of all ages

When you get your period, your uterus contracts slightly as it expels its lining, which can cause some cramping. However, if you have cramps that are so severe they keep you from school or work, you should speak to a team member at NA OB/GYN in New Albany and Holly Springs, Mississippi. The expert providers diagnose the cause of your pain and offer expert menstrual cramp relief. Call or make an appointment online today.

What causes menstrual cramps?

Women have vastly different experiences during menstruation. While some sail through each month with little to no pain, others suffer from cramps that are so severe that they can’t go to work or school.

When you get your period, certain hormones spike and your uterus contracts to expel its lining. High levels of prostaglandins can lead to more severe contractions and cramping. However, if you have severe menstrual cramps, another reproductive health issue could be the root cause of your pain.

For example, several conditions cause abnormally painful periods, including:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Adenomyosis
• Cervical stenosis

Your risk of having painful menstrual cramps is higher if:

• You’re under the age of 30
• You started puberty before the age of 11
• You have heavy bleeding
• You have irregular periods

The team at NA OB/GYN takes your discomfort seriously. If your menstrual cramps are interfering with your life, make an appointment today.

When are menstrual cramps abnormal?

The hormonal spike and uterine contractions make some menstrual discomfort abnormal. Normal menstrual cramping starts a day or two before your period starts and lasts for two or three days.

Signs of abnormal menstrual cramping include:

• Cramps that last for more than a couple days
• Pelvic pain outside your period
• Your cramps prevent you from going to work or school
• Over-the-counter pain relievers don’t help

If these symptoms sound familiar or if you’ve noticed that your menstrual cramping has changed or become more prolonged or severe, contact NA OB/GYN to schedule an appointment today.

What treatments provide menstrual cramp relief?

The first step in providing menstrual cramp relief is to identify the condition causing your pain. The team at NA OB/GYN offers comprehensive exams and testing, including pelvic exams, MRIs, ultrasounds, and hysteroscopy. They also use blood tests to check your hormone levels and for other signs of illness.

Once your doctor knows what’s at the root cause of your pain, they offer customized treatments to reduce and manage your pain. For example, you may benefit from a hormonal form of birth control to regulate your hormones. In severe cases, your doctor may suggest surgery to address issues like uterine fibroids or endometriosis.

Call NA OB/GYN or make an appointment online today for expert menstrual cramp relief.