Depression can affect many aspects of a person’s health, including physical health. A new study suggests that women with depression may experience more severe menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea. This is the medical term for severe menstrual pain/dysmenorrhea, which can range from mild to severe and affect daily life. This study aims to explore the link between depression and menstrual pain.
Research suggests that addressing sleep and mental health issues may improve the treatment of severe menstrual pain There are many ways to manage menstrual pain, but it depends on the woman and her pain tolerance.
What causes menstrual cramps in depressed women?
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According to a study published in the journal Briefings in Bioinformatics, women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression. Depressed women often experience more severe physical symptoms, such as sleep problems and fatigue. These problems can make menstrual pain even more difficult to control.
Depression can lead to increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Increased cortisol can affect the menstrual cycle, causing problems like irregular periods and increased menstrual pain. In the study, researchers from China and the UK looked at genetic differences and found specific genes that may be involved in the impact of depression on menstrual pain.
In the study, lead author Shuhe Liu, a doctoral student at Xi’an Jiaotong University Liverpool (XJTLU) in China, revealed that the research team used a special technique called Mendelian randomization, which was performed to analyze genetic variations and identify specific genes that may mediate the effect of depression on menstrual pain.
The research team looked at around 600,000 cases in a European population and around 8,000 cases in an East Asian population and found a strong association in both groups. They identified insomnia as a mediating factor between depression and dysmenorrhea. The study also found links between the nervous system and other parts of the body. By exploring and better understanding these connections, the study aims to make a real difference for the millions of people who suffer from period pain and mental health issues.
Read more: Is a 2-day menstrual cycle normal? Find out why your menstrual cycle is short
What is dysmenorrhea?
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Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for menstrual pain or period pain. The term refers to the discomfort and pain that many women experience during their menstrual period. Depending on the woman’s constitution, the pain can range from dull and uncomfortable to severely debilitating. The pain is usually felt in the lower abdominal or pelvic area and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
It is mainly classified as primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea. In the first case, primary dysmenorrhea, the pain occurs without any underlying health problems. It is accompanied by natural contractions of the uterus. It usually begins shortly after a girl’s first menstruation and can continue until reproductive age, with the pain starting 1-3 days before menstruation and lasting for 2-3 days.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is pain caused by an underlying condition such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or uterine fibroids. This condition tends to develop later in life and can cause more severe and long-lasting symptoms than primary dysmenorrhea.
Read more: Menstrual pain: types, symptoms and treatments
How to reduce menstrual pain?
Menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea are something many women experience each month. Although it’s a normal part of the menstrual cycle, it can cause discomfort and disruption. However, there are steps women can take to avoid or reduce menstrual cramps and make their menstrual cycle more manageable.
- Staying active can help reduce cramps, and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce inflammation.
- Drinking enough water and managing stress with techniques like deep breathing can also help women get through difficult times.
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol, getting plenty of rest, and seeing a doctor if you’re in severe pain or have an underlying medical condition can make a big difference in managing menstrual discomfort.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements such as calcium and magnesium can help relieve pain, but it’s important to use them as directed and consult your doctor if necessary.
According to Dr Monica Agrawal, associate professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, the pain may be caused by naturally occurring inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. “Focus on addressing both depression and dysmenorrhea simultaneously and implementing appropriate treatment is essential for long-term relief. Therapy, medication (antidepressants, anti-inflammatories) and lifestyle changes can help control the symptoms more effectively,” she adds.
Dr Amrita Virmani, senior resident in the obstetrics and gynaecology department at King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, believes that stress management through yoga practice, counselling and CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) can also be effective in such cases. “Drinking plenty of water can help reduce bloating and pain. Switching to a healthier diet with more omega-3 fatty acids like nuts, magnesium-rich seeds, salmon and flaxseeds, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can have anti-inflammatory effects,” she adds.
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A new study has shed light on the challenges many women face. The study focuses on women’s mental health and menstrual issues, which is an important topic of discussion. However, if you are experiencing major problems with your menstrual cycle, you should see a gynaecologist.
