The Root Cause Of Your Painful Periods

Painful periods are a widespread issue affecting many women and are often considered "normal". In reality, painful periods can be the reason of a deeper underlying issue in the body. Some of the reasons for discomfort during menstruation are multifaceted, often involving hormone imbalances, liver and gut health issues, high stress levels, inflammation, and or can be the result of more specific conditions like endometriosis and fibroids. By finding the root-cause, it becomes easier to

manage symptoms, potentially even reducing pain and discomfort significantly.

Why You're Experiencing Painful Periods

Hormone Imbalances

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone have a significant influence on the menstrual cycle, and an imbalance between these can lead to severe period pain. Estrogen dominance (excess estrogen relative to progesterone) can cause the endometrial lining to become thicker than normal, leading to increased cramping and pain as the body works harder to shed it during menstruation. High estrogen levels also promote the release of prostaglandins, inflammatory chemicals that cause the uterus to contract. An excess of prostaglandins is directly linked to severe cramps and even nausea and diarrhea during periods.

Liver Health

The liver plays a crucial role in hormone regulation by detoxifying and eliminating excess estrogen. If the liver is sluggish or overburdened, estrogen levels can build up, exacerbating estrogen dominance. Lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption, poor diet, and exposure to environmental toxins, can strain the liver. Supporting liver health with a diet rich in leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and staying hydrated can help reduce period pain related to hormonal imbalance by promoting effective estrogen metabolism.

Gut Health

The gut microbiome is important to hormone balance and menstrual health. An imbalance in gut bacteria, often due to diet, antibiotics, or stress, can lead to a condition known as “estrogen reabsorption,” where excess estrogen is not properly eliminated and is instead reabsorbed back into the bloodstream. This re-circulation contributes to hormone imbalances and painful periods. Improving gut health by eating fiber-rich foods, fermented foods (such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut), and considering a quality probiotic can support balanced hormone levels and reduce menstrual pain.

High Stress

Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Chronically elevated cortisol levels can interfere with progesterone production since the body may divert resources toward cortisol creation, reducing progesterone output. As progesterone decreases, estrogen dominance can worsen, leading to more severe menstrual cramps. Additionally, high cortisol levels are inflammatory, exacerbating pain and discomfort. Managing stress through lifestyle practices such as yoga, meditation, or simple breathing exercises and using supplements to balance cortisol levels can be an effective strategy for reducing period pain and promoting hormonal balance.

Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a key contributor to menstrual pain. Pro-inflammatory diets high in sugar, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can raise inflammation levels in the body, leading to a rise in painful period symptoms. Also, certain lifestyle factors, like insufficient sleep or sedentary habits, can increase inflammation. Opting for an anti-inflammatory diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables can help reduce both inflammation and period pain.

Underlying Conditions

Endometriosis and fibroids are two common gynecological conditions that can lead to particularly painful periods:

• Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often in the pelvic area. During menstruation, this tissue also bleeds, causing inflammation, irritation, and pain that can range from moderate to debilitating.

• Fibroids are benign growths in or on the uterus, which can cause severe cramping, heavy bleeding, and pressure during periods. They can be influenced by estrogen levels, making hormone balance even more critical for women with fibroids.

If painful periods are severe and frequent, book a free 10 minute Meet and Greet with me to learn more.