Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that causes irregular periods, polycystic ovaries, and hormonal imbalances.
PCOS can present itself with symptoms like acne, weight gain, headache, and fatigue. In contrast, some people may not have any symptoms at all.
A common symptom of PCOS is cramping. Women or Assigned Females at Birth (AFAB) with PCOS can often experience pain in the abdominal or pelvic region.
PCOS cramps can affect the quality of your life by making it difficult to carry out daily activities.
Proper management and treatment can help you get rid of this pain and improve your quality of life.
This article will explore all about PCOS cramps, including its causes and treatment.
Does PCOS Cause Cramps
Yes, but cramps are not listed as a definitive symptom of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Yet some women may experience PCOS-related cramps.
It is normal for women to have cramps during periods due to contractions in the uterus to shed the uterine lining.
The medical term for this type of cramping is Dysmenorrhea.
When this cramping is unassociated with an underlying disease, it is called primary Dysmenorrhea.
Dysmenorrhea related to an underlying health condition is called secondary Dysmenorrhea.
Research suggests that Polycystic Ovary Morphology (PCOM) may have an association with the severity of primary Dysmenorrhea.
Approximately 27% of patients in another study complained of having pain and discomfort-related symptoms.
However, more extensive research is needed on this PCOS symptom.
Now that we have established that PCOS can cause cramps, we will discuss how it happens.
Women with PCOS often do not have regular periods due to hormonal imbalances. They usually have higher than normal levels of Androgens (male sex hormones).
This hormonal imbalance can trigger frequent, heavy, and long periods or absence of periods.
The longer duration between periods can cause severe inflammation and contractions in the uterus, triggering PCOS cramps.
Causes of PCOS Cramps
Source: marrakeshh_from_GettyImagesThe exact cause of PCOS-related cramps cannot be determined as sufficient scientific evidence is not available.
However, here are some possible causes of PCOS-related cramps:
Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in Estrogen and Progesterone levels can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, causing cramps and discomfort.
Ovarian Cysts: PCOS often results in the development of small fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries, known as cysts, which can contribute to pelvic pain and cramping.
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation associated with PCOS may exacerbate cramping and discomfort.
You should note that the presence of one or more of the causes mentioned above does not necessarily mean that you will experience PCOS-related cramps.
To learn more about how chronic inflammation causes PCOS, read Decoding Inflammatory PCOS: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments.
How to Relieve PCOS Cramps
Treatment of PCOS cramps is very similar to the treatment of PCOS itself, as it focuses on addressing the underlying causes.
Lifestyle changes and natural treatments are usually first-choice treatments. They are usually recommended in combination with medications for effective management.
Lifestyle Changes
Source: Chinnapong_Getty_ImagesA PCOS-friendly diet rich in antioxidants, fiber, and proteins can help restore hormonal balance and improve PCOS-related pain.
PCOS workouts like jogging, swimming, and aerobic exercise may also improve PCOS cramps.
Making these lifestyle changes may also help you lose weight, which can also improve PCOS symptoms in some cases.
To know how to get rid of that unwanted weight with PCOS, read How to Lose Weight with PCOS? Navigating Effective Strategies.
Medications
PCOS medications like Metformin are commonly prescribed as they can regulate hormone levels and improve PCOS symptoms.
Hormonal birth control pills may also be suggested to reduce Androgen levels in the body and improve PCOS pain.
Painkillers may also be considered when the pain is severe, though they may only provide temporary relief.
To manage the condition effectively, it is necessary to consult a medical professional before taking any medication.
Are you wondering which birth control pills are best for PCOS? Read Choosing the Best Birth Control for PCOS.
Natural Treatments
Herbal teas are one of the preferred natural treatments for PCOS. Chamomile and Spearmint tea can have soothing effects on cramps.
Using hot bags on the abdominal area can also help alleviate cramps and discomfort.
Another option among natural treatments for PCOS is yoga. To learn how yoga can benefit PCOS symptoms, read ‘yoga for pcos’.
Final Outlook
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder affecting women. It can present itself with symptoms like acne, weight gain, and fatigue.
Though many women do not associate pain as a symptom of PCOS, some can experience severe cramps in the pelvic and abdominal area due to PCOS.
These cramps are possibly caused by one or more of the following: ovarian cysts, inflammation in the uterus, and hormonal imbalance that causes irregular periods.
Cramps as a symptom of PCOS have not been sufficiently studied, due to which the exact cause of PCOS cramps is difficult to determine.
Addressing the underlying causes of PCOS-related cramps can help treat the symptoms effectively.
Generally, lifestyle changes and natural treatments along with medications is a recommended courses of treatment.
It is necessary to seek medical advice if you experience severe cramps or pain related to PCOS for an effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PCOS cramping a sign of infertility?
While PCOS can affect fertility, experiencing cramps alone does not necessarily indicate infertility.
Can exercise worsen PCOS cramps?
No, regular exercise can help regulate hormonal balance and reduce the severity of PCOS cramps.
Are PCOS cramps different from regular menstrual cramps?
Yes, PCOS cramps can be more intense and are often accompanied by irregular periods.
While menstrual cramps are often dull and continuous and may radiate to your lower back and thighs.
Can PCOS cramps lead to long-term complications?
No, while uncomfortable, PCOS cramps typically do not lead to long-term complications. Seek medical advice for persistent issues.
However, if PCOS itself is left untreated, it can cause long-term complications like infertility.
Is it safe to use heating pads for PCOS cramps during pregnancy?
Yes, heating pads are generally safe for PCOS cramps during pregnancy, but individual circumstances vary.
Always consult with a healthcare provider during pregnancy for personalized advice.
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