Menstrual cramps are a dull, aching pain or a sharp, intermittent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis. These cramps occur during a woman's monthly menstrual period and may be accompanied by lower back pain, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Determining the causes of a woman's menstrual cramps can help doctors determine the best treatment.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Physicians from the University of Washington indicate that an intrauterine device can cause menstrual cramps. An intrauterine device is a highly effective birth control method that involves the placement of a plastic device in the uterus. One brand, Paragard, causes inflammation in the uterus, making egg and sperm transport difficult. Mirena contains progesterone, which prevents fertilization by thinning out the lining of the uterus. The Paragard version of the IUD may cause increased cramping during the menstrual period, according to Planned Parenthood.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome is when the normal symptoms of impending menstruation impact daily life for women. According to Sandy Jocoy, a registered nurse from the University of California at San Diego, this condition is caused by changes in the body's hormone levels throughout the menstrual cycle. Along with acne, bloating, food cravings, lack of energy, headaches and low back pain, menstrual cramps are one of the physical signs of premenstrual syndrome. Cramps caused by PMS can be alleviated with exercise, heat therapy or over-the-counter pain relievers. Severe cramps need to be evaluated by a physician, because they may be caused by an underlying medical condition.
Endometriosis
The Mayo Clinic defines endometriosis as a disorder in which the lining of the uterus grows in other places in the body. Endometrial tissue can grow in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, abdomen and other locations. This tissue behaves as it would if it were in the uterus: It thickens and bleeds on a monthly basis. The blood becomes trapped and begins to irritate the surrounding tissues, which can lead to scar tissue and cysts. One of the symptoms of endometriosis is painful periods, with lower back and abdominal pain.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease is a serious infection of the fallopian tubes, uterus, and other reproductive organs. The Centers for Disease Control indicate that it can be a complication of chlamydia, gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases. One of the signs of pelvic inflammatory disease is painful menstruation, with severe cramps and irregular bleeding. If cramps are caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, the condition needs to be treated with antibiotics.
Change in Birth Control
Women who take hormonal birth control pills may experience light periods that are free of cramping and other menstrual symptoms. According to professionals from Case Western Reserve University, discontinuing hormonal birth control pills can cause menstrual symptoms to return and increase in severity. Women who did not experience menstrual cramps while taking birth control pills may experience cramps once the pills have been discontinued.
Elevated Prostaglandins
Prostaglandins are compounds that line the uterus and cause it to contract during the menstrual period. According to a report from ABC News, there is a link between elevated prostaglandin levels and severe menstrual cramps. This report indicates that natural approaches may be taken to reduce prostaglandin levels and ease pain. Evening primrose, black currant and borage oils can be used to help the uterus expel menstrual tissue without cramps. Women who want to use more traditional methods to reduce prostaglandins can take an over-the-counter NSAID pain reliever such as ibuprofen.
