Menstrual cramps are a condition characterised by throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen. Almost all women experience some form of pain or cramping either just before or during their menstrual periods. However, the discomfort is acute with the cramps being severe enough to interfere with everyday activities for a few days every month.
Some of the possible factors for menstrual cramps could be endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Symptoms associated with menstrual cramps include severe pain in the lower abdomen, a throbbing continuous ache in the lower abdomen, pain radiating down into the lower back, nausea, headache and dizziness.
Menstrual cramps treatment is two-pronged with clinical intervention and lifestyle modification being two of the methods to provide relief. The clinical intervention includes medication to relieve pain. In some cases, oral contraceptive pills can also be helpful. Oral birth control pills contain hormones that prevent ovulation and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.