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Depression can affect many parts of a person’s health, including their physical health. A new study claims that women with depression may experience worse menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea. It is a medical term for painful menstrual cramps/pains that range from mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities. Aiming to explore the link between depression and menstrual pain.
The study suggests that addressing sleep issues and mental health could improve treatment for severe menstrual pain. Though there are various ways one can manage dysmenorrhea, it depends on women and their capability to bear the pain.
What Causes Menstrual Pain For Women With Depression?
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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. Women with depression often experience more severe physical symptoms, like trouble sleeping and tiredness. These issues can make menstrual pain even more difficult to manage.
Depression can lead to higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Increased cortisol can affect the menstrual cycle, causing issues like missed periods or more painful periods. In the study, researchers from China and the UK looked at genetic differences and found specific genes that could be linked to how depression affects menstrual pain.
For the study, Shuhe Liu, lead author and a PhD student at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool-University (XJTLU), China, shared that the team used a specialised technique called Mendelian randomisation. It was done to analyse genetic variation and identify specific genes that may mediate the effect of depression on menstrual pain.
The team looked at around 600,000 cases from European populations and 8,000 from East Asian populations and found a strong link in both groups. They identified sleeplessness as a mediator between depression and dysmenorrhea. The study also found a link between neurological systems and the rest of the body. By exploring and understanding these relationships better, the study aims to make a real difference to the millions of people experiencing period pain and mental health issues.
ALSO READ: Is A 2-day Period Normal? Exploring The Reasons Behind Short Menstrual Cycles
What Is Dysmenorrhea?
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Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstruation or menstrual cramps. It refers to the discomfort and pain that many women go through during their menstrual period. Depending upon the woman’s body, the pain can range from dull and annoying to severe and debilitating. It is usually felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
It is majorly classified into primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea. In the first case, primary dysmenorrhea, the pain happens without any underlying health issue. It is linked to the natural contractions of the uterus. It usually starts soon after a girl’s first period and can last into her reproductive years, with pain starting one to three days before her period and lasting two to three days.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is pain caused by an underlying medical condition like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or uterine fibroids. It tends to develop later in life and can cause more severe or longer-lasting symptoms than primary dysmenorrhea.
How To Manage Menstrual Pain?
Menstrual pain or dysmenorrhea is something many women experience each month. While it’s a normal part of the menstrual cycle, it can be uncomfortable and disruptive. However, there are several steps women can take to help avoid or reduce menstrual pain and make their period more manageable.
- Staying active with exercise can help ease cramps, while a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce inflammation.
- Being hydrated and managing stress through techniques like deep breathing can also help women during tough times.
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol, getting enough rest, and seeking medical advice for severe pain or underlying conditions can make a significant difference in managing menstrual discomfort.
- Over-the-counter pain relief and supplements like calcium and magnesium may provide relief, but it’s important to use them as directed and consult a doctor if needed.
According to Dr Monica Agrawal, Additional Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, the pain may occur due to natural inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. “More focus on addressing both depression and dysmenorrhea simultaneously and working on the tailored management is essential for long term relief. Therapy, medications (antidepressants, anti-inflammatory), lifestyle modifications can help manage the symptoms more effectively,” she added.
Dr Amrita Vermani, senior resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow believes stress management through yogic practices, counselling, CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) are also effective in such cases. She adds, “drinking plenty of water helps reduce bloating and release pain. Switching diet to healthier options like nuts, seeds rich in magnesium, salmon, flaxseeds increase omega 3 fatty acids, avoiding caffeine and alcohol can work as anti- inflammatory.”
Takeaway
With the new research, challenges faced by many women have come in front of the world. While the research aims to focus on the mental health and menstrual problems of women, it is an important topic of discussion. However, if faced with major problems during the menstrual cycle, it is always advised to visit the gynaecologist.