Many women experience little or no menstrual pain in their youth, but the symptoms tend to worsen with age. Dr. Cheng Cheng-Chieh, Executive Director of Taipei Show Chwan Hospital, points out that this could be a sign of gynecological conditions, particularly endometriosis. Menstrual pain is classified as either primary or secondary primary dysmenorrhea starts with the first menstruation and usually eases with age, while secondary dysmenorrhea tends to worsen and often lasts more than 2&ndash3 days. Around 90% of secondary cases are related to endometriosis.
Diarrhea during menstruation and pain during intercourse may be signs of endometriosis. (Image courtesy of Heho Health)
Endometriosis may lead to pelvic adhesions, chocolate cysts, or adenomyosis, which can cause menstrual pain and affect fertility. One in ten women is affected, and studies show that one in three women with infertility has this condition. Symptoms like diarrhea during menstruation or pain during intercourse could also indicate endometriosis.
Frequent consumption of cold foods may worsen menstrual cramps. (Image courtesy of Heho Health)
In addition, lifestyle habits like frequent consumption of cold foods and high stress levels can worsen menstrual pain. Dr. Cheng suggests that mild discomfort can be managed with yoga, warm compresses, or pain relievers, but long-term reliance on medication should prompt a medical consultation.
