Expert Explains If Back Pain During Periods Is Normal

Periods are an uncomfortable time for most menstruators. Adding to the discomfort, it also comes with other complications such as bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings etc. Another common problem experienced by many women during their periods is back pain. But how much pain is considered normal, and when should you be concerned?

To find out, we talked to Dr Ila Jalote, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Manipal Hospitals, Gurugram.

According to her, backache is normal during menstrual cramps. It happens because, during periods, the prostaglandins are reduced in the system. Prostaglandins are also responsible for uterine contractions and these cause the back to hurt, which is normal.

However, if the backache is too much, it could be a sign of an underlying disease such as endometriosis or pelvic infection.

So if you face severe pain in the back during periods, you should get yourself checked out.

What To Do During Mild Backache?

According to Dr Jalota, during mild backache, you can take over-the-counter painkillers like a Meftal-spas tablet.

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What To Do During Severe Backache?

If the back pain is severe, the first thing to do is to consult a gynaecologist. Even if causes like endometriosis or fibroids are detected, they can be treated.

If there is no cause found, certain hormone-regulating pills might help with regulating the amount of contraction, decreasing the period cramps including backache.

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Why Does Back Hurt During Periods?

Mild backache during periods is normal. It happens because of hormone-induced contractions. However, if the pain is severe, it needs to be checked out to rule out conditions like endometriosis, pelvic infections and fibroids. If anything is found, it is treatable. If nothing is found, then stepwise treatment for managing the pain is done starting with mild antispasmodic and going on to include hormone-regulatory pills.

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