Is it true that menstrual pain is a sign of difficulty getting pregnant?

Menstrual cramps usually occur before the bleeding and can last for up to three days. Some women experience abdominal cramps that radiate to the lower back, groin, and vagina. Others experience headaches, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, and general general malaise.

Distinguishing Normal and Abnormal Conditions Normal

Menstrual pain is caused by contractions of the uterine muscle wall. These contractions shed the uterine wall when pregnancy does not occur. This is further compounded by the presence of the hormone prostaglandin, which the body releases to stimulate contractions. As a result, menstrual pain becomes even more pronounced.

To date, menstrual pain has not been proven to be a barrier to pregnancy. On the contrary, normal menstrual pain is considered a sign of normal body function. Excessive menstrual pain is also called dysmenorrhea. Besides uterine contractions, dysmenorrhea can also be caused by endometriosis and fibroids. The effects of both of these conditions may affect the ability to conceive in general.

• Endometriosis

Endometriosis is the growth of uterine lining tissue outside the uterus. In addition to excessive menstrual pain, endometriosis can cause symptoms such as painful urination, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful intercourse, and bowel problems including diarrhea and constipation.

• Fibroids

Fibroids are benign tumors in or around the uterus. Symptoms of fibroids are similar to those of endometriosis, but may include pressure or bloating in the lower abdomen and/or abdominal swelling, depending on the size of the tumor.

In this case, you don't need to worry too much if your menstrual pain is due to these two conditions. Your doctor can help you manage it, especially if you're planning to become pregnant.

Tips to Relieve Menstrual Pain

It's not uncommon for menstrual pain to disrupt a mother's daily activities. However, there are several ways to relieve the pain.

• Drink warm water. Besides preventing dehydration, drinking warm water can help relieve menstrual pain and prevent bloating. Warm water mixed with ginger can be an alternative to reduce menstrual discomfort.

• Warm water compress. Mothers can use a bottle filled with warm water or a warm towel if they don't have a heating pad (heating pad) to be applied to the stomach or back. What makes it remarkable is that the effects of this natural technique are said to be almost like taking medication.

• Increase food consumption Which contains calcium. Foods rich in calcium include milk and other dairy products, sesame seeds, almonds, and green vegetables. If you're considering taking a calcium supplement, consult your doctor first.
• Reduce caffeine. Reducing or even avoiding caffeine completely can help reduce menstrual cramps and pressure. Don't be mistaken, caffeine isn't just found in coffee; it's also found in tea and soda.
• Avoid junk food. Junk food or foods that can make the stomach bloated and the body retain water, should be avoided. For example, foods that contain high fat, soda drinks, and alcoholic drinks
• Do some relaxation. When you're stressed, menstrual pain can increase. Try relaxation techniques to help your body relax.
• Exercise regularly. Do any exercise you enjoy, such as swimming, cycling, or simply brisk walking around your neighborhood. Three times a week, about 30 minutes per session, is sufficient.
• Avoid smoking. Women who smoke often experience more severe menstrual pain. Quit smoking if you want to reduce menstrual pain.

Some women have regular periods, while others experience variations in the length of their periods and associated pain. If you experience any changes in your periods that are considered abnormal, it's recommended to consult a doctor immediately to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.