Endometriosis & PCOS Period Pain: The Pain Relief you Deserve

Endometriosis & PCOS Period Pain: The Pain Relief you Deserve

Endometriosis & PCOS Period Pain: The Pain Relief you Deserve

Period pain is a normal part of menstruation. But for some women, the pain and discomfort associated with menstruation stretches beyond the norm to unbearable. Often, such severe period pain is associated with chronic illnesses that affect the reproductive system, such as PCOS and endometriosis. 

We take a look at the what and why behind this pain and how it can be managed through several pain relief strategies.

How Common is Menstrual Pain?

Very. The majority of menstruating women experience period pain to a certain degree. Looking at the numbers, 84.1% of women report suffering from period pain, with 43.1% reporting that pain occurred during every period and 41% reporting that pain occurred during some periods.

What Causes Period Pain?

Period pain is caused by the womb contracting (tightening) due to the presence of prostaglandins. While this is a normal bodily function that goes unperceived for most of the cycle, during menstruation – it intensifies. The results are sharp pains and discomfort. 

For some women, however, the pain associated with periods is much less manageable. Often, intensified menstrual pain and chronic illnesses such as PCOS and Endometriosis go hand in hand. 

PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects the function of women's ovaries. The 3 common symptoms of PCOS are: 

  • Irregular periods. 
  • Excess androgen - high levels of ‘male hormones in your body. 
  • Polycystic ovaries.

In 2017, it was estimated that among women of reproductive age (15–49 years,)  1.55 million suffered from PCOS. Among them are celebrities, Victoria Beckham and Daisy Ridley.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue resembling that which grows within the uterus starts growing in other areas of the body. The condition affects around 10% (190 million) of reproductive-age women and girls globally. Famous sufferers are Cyndi Lauper and Halsey who speak out regularly boost awareness of the relatively unknown condition.

Endometriosis & PCOS: Different yet Similar

However, both are chronic conditions that target the reproductive organs and affect women of varying age, with pain, irregular periods, and risk of infertility as side effects. 

Women suffering from these conditions may experience unbearable pain in their lower tummy or back (pelvic pain) that’s aggravated during periods.

While some remedies, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, can help ease some of the discomfort, a more broad pain management strategy is often recommended for best results.


How to Manage Period Pain

Adopt a wellness routine. Exercise has been shown to relieve cramps. When we exert ourselves physically, our bodies release and flood the brain/body with endorphins, otherwise known as the ‘feel-good’ chemicals. 

Research has found that yoga, a light form of exercise, is especially good for PMS symptoms and period cramps by decreasing cortisol levels, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, and improving quality of life. So, why not treat yourself to new comfy yoga gear and everything you need to have a calm, relaxing, and pain-relieving yoga session? 

Finally, part of every effective well-being regime is a good diet, which brings us to …

Eat and Drink Your Way to Less Painful Periods

Naturally, eating foods that decrease inflammation in the body will help to tame menstrual cramps. These include anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. If that sounds like a lot of chewing – it doesn’t have to be. A Fresh Juice Blender that can hold your 5-a-day in a variety of delicious formations, blend on the spot, and be brought on-the-go, can keep you nourished and feeling fresh without the headache!

Drinking plenty of water can also help to reduce bloating while sipping on herbal teas throughout the day has been shown to relieve inflammation and muscle spasms.

Curate Your Environment

Studies have shown that even just viewing nature can decrease pain by eliciting positive emotional responses and reducing stress. So, a healthy space creates a healthy mind that can undertake the self-care necessary to deal with the pressures and stresses of pain. Decorating your living space with a variety of lush plants could help ease both mental and physical pain simply by adding a touch of natural and refreshing greenery to their surroundings.  

Apply Heat 

Heat therapy works by soothing and relaxing the uterus muscles, increasing blood flow, and easing pain. Often applying a hot water bottle to the area or taking a warm bath can achieve this effect.


However, filling hot water bottles and baths can be time-consuming, and you can’t always take them on the go. The solution? Why, the KUSHIE., of course! KUSHIE is a brand dedicated to providing menstrual pain relief while promoting self-care practices among women. Their state-of-the-art KUSHIE, Menstrual Relief Belt is designed to be worn around the lower pelvic area and gently exudes heat that’s just enough to soothe cramps without being uncomfortable. Thanks to its small size, the KUSHIE. can be worn underneath clothes and is delightfully portable, making traveling pain-free a breeze.

When to See Your Gynecologist or Doctor

Suppose you suffer from PCOS, endometriosis, or generally painful periods. In that case, you may feel as though consulting medical advice isn’t always necessary.

However, if you’re suffering from more severe period pain than expected – it may be time. Other signs you should not ignore are a change in the normal pattern of periods, heavier than usual or irregular flow, or if you experience bleeding between periods.

The Bottom Line 

While endometritis and PCOS can be cumbersome to deal with most of the time, their symptoms tend to be aggravated more during periods. The result is often stifling pain that can throw off a woman’s entire day, even decreasing her quality of life over time. So, to keep the pain at bay, a varied pain management strategy, including exercise, diet, environmental changes, and ongoing medical care is a necessity.

 

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