Menstrual cycles mark very important transitions in the lives of many women, although they simply become part of normal life for most. A level of discomfort is common, but excessively painful periods are not, and if you are struggling with them on a regular basis it may be time to consult with your Fort Worth, TX gynecologist, Dr. Noushin Firouzbakht.
Causes and Risk Factors
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is sometimes associated with painful periods, the condition onsets about a week or two before a period and usually goes away after bleeding begins.
Certain medical conditions that affect the uterus and ovaries are likely to contribute to or be the cause of painful periods. Some of these are cervical stenosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and fibroids in the uterus.
It can sometimes be difficult to identify the exact cause of painful periods but for those who suffer from them, there are often risk factors in common. Such as having a family history of them, smoking, heavy bleeding during a period, and irregular periods, among others.
Seeking Professional Help
Although it can sometimes be hard to determine what is causing your painful periods you should still consider seeking help from your doctor, especially if you encounter the following. If you experience at least three painful periods, if along with cramps you also experience diarrhea and nausea, if you are experiencing pelvic pain or are passing blood clots.
Sudden cramps accompanied by fever and severe pain and discharge can all signal an infection which should be treated as soon as possible by your doctor.
Painful Periods, in Fort Worth, TX
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause but can include the prescription of medication like antibiotics, antidepressants, or birth control, all of which can provide a level of relief in certain circumstances. Surgery may be suggested if the condition can't be treated with noninvasive means.
For help treating painful periods and related conditions, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Firouzbakht in Fort Worth, TX by dialing (817) 878-2667.