Painful or heavy periods aren’t “just part of being a woman”; they could signal a more serious condition. Here are three to watch out for:
Endometriosis
What it is: An ongoing inflammatory condition in which cells similar to the lining of the uterus grow outside the uterus and attach to other parts of the body, creating scar tissue. If untreated, the condition can lead to infertility.
Symptoms: Pelvic pain that interferes with daily functioning; cramps before or after a period; lower back pain; fatigue; abdominal bloating; nausea; mood changes; pain with bowel movements, urination. and during sexual activity.
Treatment: While there is no cure, pain medication and hormonal therapy such as birth control pills can alleviate symptoms. If these options don’t work, surgery may be considered.
Fibroids
What they are: Fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive system.
Symptoms: Heavy menstrual cycles or prolonged painful cycles; pelvic pressure; cramps; urinary frequency or urgency; pain with sexual activity; anemia.
Treatment: Hysterectomy or minimally invasive options such as myomectomy or uterine artery embolization.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
What it is: A common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular or missed periods, high androgen levels, and ovarian cysts that can lead to infertility.
Symptoms: Menstrual irregularity, excess hair growth, acne, obesity, infertility problems.
Treatment: Combined hormone birth control, insulin, metformin, and anti-androgen medications.
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