“Why do I have back pain before my periods?”
While most people have stomach cramps before and during their periods, I have a weird back pain which goes up to my hips. It is quite intense, and often it's even hard for me to get out of bed. Why do I have this pain right before my periods?
9 Answers
Most probably you have some degree of endometriosis. See your gynecologist for a diagnosis and, if it exists, there are many different treatments.
Sometimes it is a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. You need NSAIDs or OCPs. Please see your ob/gyn.
Dear Patron,
Thanks for your question.The process of menses involves the body (i.e., the uterus) in its cyclic luteal phase "shedding" of the uterine content. In the process, there is a contraction of the uterus, which could be painful and debilitating in certain instances. Majority of this menstrual pain is intra-uterine. The pain as you describe it may be what is referred to as pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, which could be severe and intense, but recedes with onset of menses. In certain instances, this could be clinical endometriosis possibly. A thorough workup by your physician is needed. Treatment of this premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) may include a conservative approach, such as dietary changes. Pharmacologic treatment may include oral contraceptive pills, NSAID's, and Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) among others. Exercises such as yoga have also been proven to be helpful. Endometriosis much as is a clinical diagnosis requires a definitive diagnosis by laparoscopic direct visualization and directed tissue biopsy. Laser ablative or fulguration with lysis of intrapelvic adhesions do go a great distance to provide relief. I hope this brief discussion is helpful.
Dr. I. Brown Brantuoh
Thanks for your question.The process of menses involves the body (i.e., the uterus) in its cyclic luteal phase "shedding" of the uterine content. In the process, there is a contraction of the uterus, which could be painful and debilitating in certain instances. Majority of this menstrual pain is intra-uterine. The pain as you describe it may be what is referred to as pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, which could be severe and intense, but recedes with onset of menses. In certain instances, this could be clinical endometriosis possibly. A thorough workup by your physician is needed. Treatment of this premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) may include a conservative approach, such as dietary changes. Pharmacologic treatment may include oral contraceptive pills, NSAID's, and Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) among others. Exercises such as yoga have also been proven to be helpful. Endometriosis much as is a clinical diagnosis requires a definitive diagnosis by laparoscopic direct visualization and directed tissue biopsy. Laser ablative or fulguration with lysis of intrapelvic adhesions do go a great distance to provide relief. I hope this brief discussion is helpful.
Dr. I. Brown Brantuoh
It is possible your uterus is tilted backwards. This is common in many women. So the pressure effects are directed more to your back.
People with tipped uterus and pelvic endometriosis and pelvic congestion get lot of cramps during and bet menses I think you should see gynecologist also
It could be due to spasms of the muscles in your back. A hot compress or back massage may help.
A common cause of menstrual related back pain is endometriosis, but many causes are possible. You should see your gynecologist for treatment. It sounds like the pain is impacting your quality of life.
Every woman experiences different symptoms. Back pain before your periods might be due to endometriosis. Other symptoms of endometriosis might be painful intercourse or pain with bowel movements. You should probably see a doctor to have this evaluated, in the meantime, it should be safe to use pain medications like Advil.
The pain from your uterus around the time of your menses can be felt elsewhere. This phenomenon is called a referred pain. The location of the referred pain seemingly from the same cause may vary from one individual to another.
