If your answer to any of these questions is yes, you are suffering from menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea (in medical terms). While some menstrual-related pain is common among girls hitting puberty, there could be severe underlying reasons behind frequent and severe menstrual cramps.

What Causes Cramps During Menses?

The cramps are, in fact, contractions of the uterus that occur while the uterus releases the lining along with the unfertilised egg. There could be various reasons why the cramps might happen.

• Spasmodic Cramps
  
  Spasmodic cramps is common with young girls, who have a closed cervix. Here the lining of the uterus has to be pushed out of a narrow track. These cramps generally start on the first day of a period and end in a day or two. They generally don't cause heavy periods and the pain subsides automatically.
  
  
• Congestive Cramps
  
  Congestive cramps are caused when the tract is obstructed by a cyst or fibroid that makes it difficult for the lining of the uterus to pass through. This occurs in sexually mature women of all ages. These cramps are sometimes also accompanied by inflammation before a period, heavy flow, extended periods and other symptoms like headaches and nausea.
  
  These cramps could also be caused due to endometriosis, a disorder that occurs when the uterine tissue lining is formed outside the uterine cavity, especially in the pelvic region and abdomen cavity.

Short-term Cures

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
  
  There are muscle relaxants and pain relievers available over-the-counter as well as on a doctor's prescription. You may use them till the pain automatically subsides.
  
  
• Heating Pad
  
  In some cases, using a heating pad or taking a hot shower to warm the lower abdomen helps. The heat acts as a muscle relaxant.
  
  
• Yoga
  
  Certain deep breathing exercises and even asanas are said to help during menstrual cramps. However, do not do any yogic exercise without guidance from an expert. It might add to the pain.
  
• Rest
  
  Simply lying down for a while can work wonders. Sometimes excessive activity might cause uterine contractions. Resting enough gives your body energy to fight the pain.

Long-term Cures

If severe cramps during periods persist over a long time, then ask your doctor for a complete internal check up. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your gynaecologist may suggest a non-invasive ultrasound sonogram or a relatively invasive procedure of a laparoscopy.

In case there are cysts or fibroids, the gynaecologist might prescribe birth-control pills, as hormone supplements, to help the situation. If endometriosis is detected, consult a competent gynaecologist for further treatment.

(With inputs from Dr. Kiran Coelho, Gynaecologist, Leelavati Hospital, Mumbai)