What causes abdominal cramps and diarrhea during menstruation, and what should be done?
Jun 01, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Abdominal cramps and diarrhea during menstruation may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Symptomatic management should be based on the patient's specific condition. The detailed analysis is as follows: If the body is exposed to cold during menstruation, the uterus may be stimulated by the cold, leading to abnormal contractions and spasms of local smooth muscles, which in turn alters the frequency of intestinal peristalsis.
Abdominal cramps and diarrhea during menstruation may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis. Appropriate management should be based on the individual patient's condition. The specific analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
If the body is exposed to cold during menstruation, the uterus may experience abnormal contractions due to cold stimulation, leading to spasms of local smooth muscles and changes in intestinal motility. This can result in abdominal cramping and diarrhea during menstruation. It is recommended to apply heat therapy to the abdomen to help relieve pain.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are commonly seen in women aged 30–50 and are benign tumors primarily associated with sex hormone levels. When female sex hormones are over-secreted and estrogen levels are high, the endometrium may be stimulated, causing hyperplasia of local smooth muscle tissue and resulting in uterine fibroids. If a fibroid grows in a location that compresses the intestine or becomes large enough to abnormally pull surrounding tissues, such symptoms may occur. Patients are advised to undergo myomectomy to remove the fibroid.
2. Endometriosis
If intense physical activity occurs during menstruation, it may cause retrograde menstrual flow. Endometrial tissue present in the menstrual blood can then implant into the abdominal cavity, leading to endometriosis. The ectopic endometrial lesions are also influenced by ovarian cycles. If the endometrial tissue invades the ureter, the aforementioned symptoms may appear. Patients are advised to visit a hospital and undergo surgical removal of the affected tissue.
In addition, these symptoms could also be caused by other factors such as vaginitis, adenomyosis, or ovarian cysts. It is recommended to avoid heavy physical labor during menstruation and maintain proper genital hygiene.
