Menstrual Cramps: Causes and Tips

Menstrual cramps are a problem for many women every month. We explain the causes and how you can get rid of them.

What are menstrual cramps?

Many women suffer from menstrual problems, especially before and during menstruation. The most common symptoms are premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and severe menstrual pain (dysmernorrhea). The symptoms include headaches and severe abdominal pain. But an irregular cycle and a heavy menstrual period are also part of the menstrual problems.

Causes: Primary and secondary menstrual cramps

There are two different forms of menstrual cramps. These also determine the causes of the complaints:

1. Primary menstrual cramps

In primary menstrual cramps, the cause of menstrual pain lies in the cycle itself. On the one hand, the body releases so-called prostaglandins, which are pain messengers. On the other hand, the muscles of the uterus contract in order to be able to repel the lining of the uterus, which is built up for a possible pregnancy, if no egg is fertilised – period occurs. However, the contraction of the muscles disturbs the blood circulation in the uterus, which in turn leads to pain.

2. Secondary menstrual cramps

In the case of secondary menstrual cramps, the menstrual pain can be attributed to another condition or is caused by mechanical contraceptives (e.g. coil). The following diseases can be a cause:

• Endometriosis (in almost 50 percent of all cases)
• High blood pressure
• Hormonal disorders, e.g. due to thyroid diseases or lack of hormone production in the ovaries
• Drug side effects
• Cysts on the ovaries
• Uterine diseases
• Malnutrition
• Anorexia
• Psychological factors, e.g. increased stress
• General lifestyle, e.g. smoking

Symptoms of menstrual cramps

Severe menstrual cramps or dysmernorrhea often cause the following symptoms:

• Cramps in the stomach or abdomen
• Headaches up to migraine
• Tiredness / exhaustion
• Concentration disorders
• Swindle
• Constipation / bloating / flatulence
• Nausea up to vomiting
• Nervousness / irritability
• Mood swings

How can I relieve severe menstrual cramps?

There are medicines that can relieve typical menstrual cramps. But if the period pains are not too severe, many women also successfully use gentle home remedies. These include:

• Heat, e.g. from hot water bottles, cherry pit pillows or baths
• Relaxation, e.g. through autogenic training, yoga or meditation
• Herbal tea, especially chamomile
• Slight movement
• Herbal remedies – often used is e.g. monk’s pepper, which can regulate the cycle

Would you like more information about menstruation? We explain the importance of spotting instead of periods.