What causes severe lower back pain before menstruation?

Apr 02, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
In general, severe lower back pain before menstruation may be caused by factors such as hormonal fluctuations, lumbar muscle strain, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, applying heat to the lower back or using a lumbar support belt is advisable, along with avoiding prolonged sitting or standing and performing appropriate lower back stretching exercises.

Generally speaking, severe lower back pain before menstruation may be caused by factors such as hormonal fluctuations, lumbar muscle strain, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal changes: Before menstruation, levels of estrogen and progesterone in women's bodies naturally rise. These hormonal fluctuations may lead to pelvic tissue congestion and edema, resulting in lower back pain. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and usually does not require special treatment.

2. Lumbar muscle strain: If a woman engages in heavy physical labor or intense exercise before her period, it may lead to strain of the lower back muscles, causing pain. In such cases, the discomfort typically improves with adequate rest and is generally not a cause for concern.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This may result from unhygienic sexual practices or infections following intrauterine procedures. Before menstruation, due to increased pelvic congestion, patients may experience worsened lower back pain, along with symptoms such as lower abdominal pain and increased vaginal discharge. Patients are advised to take medications such as Gongxue Ning Capsules, Gynecological Qianjin Tablets, or Gongyanping Tablets as prescribed by their doctor to alleviate symptoms.

4. Uterine fibroids: These may develop due to hormonal changes or unhealthy lifestyle habits. When fibroids grow large, they may compress surrounding tissues, leading to symptoms such as lower back pain, a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen, and discomfort. Before menstruation, hormonal changes and pelvic congestion may make back pain more pronounced. Patients are advised to seek timely medical care and consider surgical removal of fibroids.

5. Endometriosis: This condition may be associated with genetic factors or retrograde menstruation. Women with endometriosis may experience lower back pain before menstruation, often accompanied by dysmenorrhea (painful periods) and menstrual irregularities. The back pain is typically secondary and progressively worsens over time, significantly affecting quality of life. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as gestrinone capsules, norethisterone tablets, or dydrogesterone tablets for treatment.

In daily life, applying heat to the lower back or using a lumbar support belt, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and performing gentle lower back stretching exercises may help relieve discomfort.