Lower Back Pain During Menstruation

A lot of women complain about lower back pain before their period or while they are menstruating. Headaches, bloating, and abdominal pain are very likely to happen during menstruation. According to studies, menstrual low back pain or period back pain is faced by almost 50% of the women population during the menstrual phase. Therefore, it’s high time that we discuss facts about menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiative that women must take to understand their menstrual cycle better.

Period-related back pain can range from a bit of discomfort to severe discomfort in women, which makes it challenging to go about everyday activities. Period-related pain in the back may begin a few days before the onset of your period and decrease after it has ended. At times, PMS back pain or premenstrual syndrome back pain can also be the reason.

Awareness of Lower Back Pain Before Periods or During Periods - Understanding The Reason Behind:

It is 2024, and it’s about time that we create awareness about menstrual health so that women can take the necessary steps to lead a comfortable lifestyle even when they are on their periods. So, let’s understand the reasons for PMS back pain or lower back pain during periods.

What Causes Lower Back Pain During or Before Periods?

Although the exact causes of lower back pain during menstruation are unknown, it usually involves hormonal fluctuations and how they affect the ligaments in the spine. Researchers have discovered that hormonal fluctuations can influence the creation of collagen, which might result in ligament laxity or loose ligaments.

In addition to causing spinal instability, loose ligaments can occasionally result in lower back pain. The changes that occur in your body during menstruation are primarily responsible for back pain during your period, sometimes referred to as period back pain. Let's first consider a few of the factors to have a better understanding.

1. Hormonal Fluctuations: 

   One of the most crucial reasons behind lower back pain or period back pain is the hormonal fluctuations your body can experience during PMS and menstruation. Progesterone and Estrogen levels drop during the second half of your period cycle (after ovulation), leading the uterus to prepare for menstruation. The uterus contracts to shed its outer lining during the menstrual cycle, consequently resulting in cramps and lower back pain.

2.  Prostaglandins: 

   Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that play a vital role in the menstrual cycle by stimulating uterine contractions. However, high levels of prostaglandins can lead to more intense cramps, which may extend to the lower back. These contractions are often the reason why some women experience sharp lower back pain before period and during menstruation.

3. Muscle Tension:

   The uterus and the lower back share common nerve pathways, which means when the uterus contracts, it can also trigger the muscles in your lower back. This tension can be one of the reasons for your lower back pain during periods. It is a throbbing pain that women experience during their premenstrual phase, commonly known as PMS

4. Posture And Lifestyle Factors:

   Your back muscles can be stressed because of wrong sitting or sleeping postures, lifting weights, and even if you have a sedentary lifestyle. Combined with period cramps, period back pain can get more intense. Additionally, sleep schedule and sleep quality can be compromised as a result of back pain. 

What Are The Common Symptoms of Lower Back Pain Before And During Periods?

The symptoms can be different for everyone; however, here is a list of some common symptoms for you to understand better:

• Inconsistent, dull, throbbing pain in the lower back.
• Pain spreads downwards into the legs and hips.
• Stiffness or uneasiness in the lower back portion, especially during the heavy flow days.
• Fatigue and tiredness in the lower back muscles.
• Discomfort in sitting for longer hours.

How Do You Manage PMS Back Pain or Period Back Pain?

If you are experiencing severe pain in your lower back during your period, the following may help:

1. Heat Therapy: 

   Applying a heating pad or a hot bag can help relax the back muscles. This can reduce the tension in the muscles, and the pain will subside. The heat helps to increase the blood flow in the affected muscle area, which can lower back pain and period cramps as well.

2. Warm Shower: 

   Taking a warm shower can help you relax the back pain.

3. Massage:

   A gentle massage focused on the lower back or the abdomen can help with relaxation and reduce muscle tension. You can also try using essential oils like lavender or peppermint, which are known for their soothing effects.

4. Exercise:

   Start exercising daily. Yoga can help relax stiff muscles and lower back pain during periods.

When to Consult A Medical Professional

Back pain and lower back pain during menstruation are frequent symptoms of PMS, but in some instances, the pain may be a sign of a more serious disease. You must see a doctor if your back pain is severe, frequent, intense, or perpetual or if you have other symptoms like fever, nausea, or excessive exhaustion along with back pain. Severe back pain during menstruation may be caused by several underlying problems, including:

• Endometriosis: 

  A disorder that causes severe cramping and back pain when tissue similar to the uterine lining starts to develop or has developed outside of the uterus.

•  Fibroids: 

  Uterine growths that are not malignant or non-cancerous can result in severe back pain, period cramps, and excessive bleeding.

• PID, or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: 

  A reproductive organ infection may cause lower back and abdominal discomfort.

  Depending on the underlying cause of your pain, your doctor can help you rule out any serious diseases and provide treatment options. It is always a safer option to consult a doctor. Please don’t try to seek comfort from self-medication if you are not a doctor. It can cause adverse effects on your health, which is not considered safe.

The Interconnectedness Between Menstrual Health and Lower Back Pain - Final Thoughts!

Understanding the symptoms and their roots is crucial to managing your PMS back pain or menstrual health properly. Menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiative is not just about managing the pain during your periods. It is more about understanding the root cause. That is a more correct approach to maintaining healthy menstrual health. It is more about recognizing your body's signals and taking care of your overall well-being.

If you regularly experience lower back pain before your period, it could be helpful to track your symptoms in a menstrual health journal. Keeping notes on the intensity of your pain, the timing within your cycle, and any other related symptoms can provide valuable insights when discussing your concerns with a doctor.

Ujaas is founded by Advaitesha Birla. Through Ujaas, Advaitesha is committed to bringing about sustainable change by ensuring that girls are equipped with the right knowledge and resources to manage their menstrual health.