What causes severe lower back pain during menstruation?
Jul 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
In general, severe lower back pain during menstruation may be caused by factors such as uterine contractions, hormonal changes, pelvic inflammatory disease, pyelonephritis, 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. In daily life, pay attention to keeping warm, as cold exposure to the waist and abdomen may lead to blood vessel constriction and discomfort.
Generally, severe lower back pain during menstruation may be caused by factors such as uterine contractions, hormonal changes, pelvic inflammatory disease, pyelonephritis, or endometriosis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Uterine Contractions
During menstruation, the uterus undergoes periodic contractions to expel the shed endometrial lining. These contractions can pull on surrounding tissues, nerves, and particularly the ligaments and muscles connected to the lower back, resulting in back pain. Usually, no specific treatment is required. Pain can be relieved through heat application, gentle massage, and moderate exercise.
2. Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle can affect blood flow to the uterus and pelvis, potentially causing muscle tension and pain in the lower back. Adjusting lifestyle habits—such as maintaining good posture, performing regular stretching exercises, and keeping a healthy body weight—can help reduce back pain caused by hormonal fluctuations.
3. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID may result from infections or poor personal hygiene. Inflammation causes congestion and edema in pelvic tissues, compressing nerve endings and leading to lower back pain. During menstruation, increased pelvic congestion may intensify the pain. Other symptoms may include fever, increased vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse. Treatment may involve medications such as metronidazole tablets, azithromycin tablets, or amoxicillin capsules, as prescribed by a doctor.
4. Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is typically caused by infection, leading to local tissue congestion and swelling that compresses nerve endings, causing back pain. During menstruation, pelvic congestion may exacerbate this pain. Symptoms may also include frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. Treatment under medical supervision may include antibiotics such as levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, cefradine capsules, or norfloxacin tablets to relieve symptoms.
5. Endometriosis
Endometriosis may be triggered by immune dysfunction or retrograde menstruation. During menstruation, ectopic endometrial tissue bleeds and sheds, but due to its abnormal location, it may irritate or compress surrounding tissues, causing lower back pain. This condition may also be accompanied by dysmenorrhea, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. Treatment under a doctor's guidance may include medications such as ibuprofen tablets, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or progesterone capsules.
In daily life, maintain warmth, especially in the waist and abdomen, as cold exposure may cause blood vessel constriction and discomfort. Avoid cold or cooling foods to prevent "cold uterus" (a traditional concept referring to poor uterine circulation), which may worsen back pain.
