The causes of severe menstrual pain and its impact on IVF preparation

Menstrual Pain: Normal or Concerning?

Very painful periods: is this normal or a sign of a health problem? Menstrual pain affects one in two women and can be accompanied by weakness, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal bloating, an increase in body temperature, as well as emotional and autonomic disturbances.

Causes of Painful Periods

Severe abdominal pain during periods is called dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea presents in two forms: primary and secondary.

• Primary dysmenorrhea develops between 1 and 3 years after the onset of the first period. Generally, the pain is mild and short-lived, and does not disrupt the usual rhythm of life. However, over time, the pain may increase and other symptoms may arise. The exact causes of primary dysmenorrhea have not been established, but they may be associated with physiological and psychological factors, such as increased production of prostaglandins, stress, and emotional overload.
• Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by organic changes in the pelvic organs and occurs more frequently in women over 30. It is due to inflammatory processes, endometriosis, cysts, fibroids, as well as the presence of an intrauterine device. Dysmenorrhea is due to decreased blood flow, spasms of smooth muscles, and inflammatory changes in the pelvic organs.

Nausea During Periods

Nausea during periods is a common phenomenon that can be associated with hormonal and physiological changes in the body. In most cases, it is a normal reaction that does not require emergency medical care. The main causes of nausea during periods include:

• Hormonal changes - increased levels of prostaglandins affecting muscle tone and stomach function;
• Serotonin spikes - excess serotonin can cause nausea and dizziness;
• Compression of organs by an enlarged uterus - the uterus can exert pressure on the stomach and intestines, causing discomfort;
• Digestive issues - exacerbation of chronic gastrointestinal problems during periods;
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - a set of symptoms including nausea, headaches, and weakness;
• Severe uterine cramps - intense contractions can affect nerve centers and cause nausea.

If nausea worsens and is accompanied by other serious symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, fainting, or a sudden deterioration in health, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.

What to Do in Case of Very Painful Periods?

In the case of pronounced dysmenorrhea, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist. The doctor will perform a comprehensive examination, an ultrasound of the pelvic organs, and evaluate lifestyle factors to explain the pain. If necessary, additional laboratory tests and instrumental analyses may be prescribed.

The treatment of dysmenorrhea is individualized and depends on the identified cause. It may include:

• Medication treatment - prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal contraceptives;
• Physiotherapy - use of heat, electrostimulation, and other methods;
• Surgical intervention - in case of detection of neoplasms or other pathologies of the pelvic organs.

Prevention and Recommendations for Painful Periods

In addition to the main treatment, the gynecologist may recommend general preventive measures:

• Ensure adequate sleep;
• Normalization of physical activity - in case of a sedentary lifestyle, it is important to move more, and in case of excessive loads, to reduce the intensity;
• Correction of diet - avoidance of low-calorie diets, balanced intake of vitamins, reduction of caffeine and alcohol consumption;
• Regular preventive examinations with a gynecologist - it is recommended to consult a specialist at least once a year to quickly detect any pathologies.

Preparation for IVF in Case of Painful Periods

If you are considering in vitro fertilization (IVF) and are suffering from severe menstrual pain, it is important to consult a doctor beforehand. Severe dysmenorrhea may be associated with reproductive system anomalies that can affect the success of the procedure.

Before proceeding with IVF, it is recommended:

• to undergo a complete gynecological examination - including an ultrasound of the pelvic organs and hormonal balance tests;
• to identify and treat possible causes of dysmenorrhea, such as endometriosis, inflammatory diseases, or fibroids;
• to discuss with your doctor the possibility of taking pain medication - safe for a future IVF protocol;
• to follow recommendations regarding diet, physical exercise, and sleep to minimize pain and improve your overall health.

Make an appointment for a consultation with a gynecologist-obstetrician at the Natuvitro reproductive medicine clinic. The specialist will help you identify the causes of dysmenorrhea, choose an individual treatment regimen, and prepare for a successful IVF treatment.