Abdominal Cramps or Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea is described as muscle cramping and abdominal pain felt before and during a period. This condition is caused by a chemical called prostaglandins, which are found in the uterus lining. Prostaglandins help regulate menstruation and ovulation; however, they can also negatively impact the body. These fatty-acid hormones can trigger the contraction of the blood vessels and muscles of the uterus.
Unlike other symptoms which appear weeks before the period starts, most women can experience abdominal cramps 2 to 3 days before bleeding. Some may feel extreme pain in the lower abdomen, while others may only feel minor aches. Regardless of severity, almost 97% of women experience an achy and tingling sensation in their abdomen, upper thighs, and lower back before and during their periods.
Some women who have underlying health conditions may experience more intense abdominal cramping. For example, conditions like adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and fibroids can cause heavy bleeding and severe dysmenorrhea.
