Periods Back Pain: Cause, Symptoms and Remedies

Back pain during periods is a common concern and can range from mild discomfort to pain that interferes with daily activities. While cramps are often discussed, back pain is equally significant and may appear in different regions of the back. To better manage the discomfort, it is important to understand why it occurs, how it is classified, and what treatment options are most effective.

Understanding Back Pain with Periods

Back pain with period occurs mainly as a result of changes in the hormone levels in a woman’s body. The body contains certain chemicals referred to as prostaglandins that aid in the contractions of the uterus and the shedding of the uterine lining. High levels of prostaglandins can increase the contraction of the uterus, causing pain in the back.

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Uterine contractions result in pelvic muscle contraction and thus may impact other muscles along with the nerves and ligaments surrounding the affected area. This is why pain is often felt not only in the abdominal area but also along the spine. This is especially the case a day or two before the bleeding starts and eases as the period progresses.

Types of Back Pain Associated with Periods

Upper Back Pain with Period

Though less frequent, some women experience upper back pain during period as a result of muscle spasms related to hormone changes and stress. The hormones cause heightened muscle sensitivity, leading to stiffness and tightness in the shoulders and back.

A poor posture condition during menstruation, which may be accompanied by discomfort and fatigue in the lower abdomen, may further aggravate the upper back. Emotional stress and tension, which can also contribute to muscle tightness in this region, can make the pain feel more pronounced.

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Middle Back Pain During Period

Middle back pain during period is commonly attributed to uterine cramps that spread outwards. The uterus shares nerve pathways with the middle back region, which explains why pain can travel upward from the pelvis.

Secondly, menstrual cramps may also cause diaphragmatic and associated muscle spasms. The spasms may be perceived as an aching or tight sensation in the back region, especially in the initial days of menstruation when spasms associated with menstrual cramps are at their peak.

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Lower Back Pain During Period

The most frequent type of pain experienced is lower back pain during period. The uterus’s proximity to the lower spine and pelvic nerves causes this pain to occur. When cramps occur, the uterine muscle spasms can irritate these nerves. 

Fluid retention and pelvic congestion during periods may also exert pressure on that area, causing discomfort. At times, you may experience lower back pain that feels sore, like a pulled muscle. Or, it may feel stabbing or achy.

Causes of Lower Back Pain

There can be various causes of back pain during periods.

• Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone affect pain sensitivity and muscle tension. 

• The prostaglandins lead to extremely strong uterine contractions, thus causing severe pain that radiates back.

• Fatigue and cramps may change one’s posture, which may strain spinal muscles.

• An increased blood flow to the pelvis can cause pressure and pain in the area.

Existing medical conditions like endometriosis, fibroid or adenomyosis may worsen the back pain associated with your periods and further increase the duration of the pain.

Signs You Should Notice

Back pain associated with periods can vary greatly in intensity and sensation.

• Dull pain is common and usually managed easily at home.

• Sharp/stabbing pain indicates cramping that may be severe or different.

• Mild or moderate pain interferes with movement.

• Back pain is often associated with abdominal pains, nausea, fatigue, headaches, or constipation and diarrhoea.

In order to determine whether it is just a menstrual symptom or something severe that needs medical attention, one must observe the severity and duration of the pain.

Effective Remedies and Pain Relief Tips

• Heat therapy: Using a heating pad or a warm bath helps relax your muscles and increase blood flow to the area, relieving the pain.

• Stretching & Yoga: Gentle stretching techniques focusing on the lower back, hips, & pelvis help relax the muscles.

• Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and eating foods rich in magnesium, such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, can alleviate muscle spasms.

• Sleep quality: Adequate rest supports hormonal balance and muscle recovery.

• Regular exercise: Consistent physical activity strengthens back muscles and reduces menstrual discomfort over time.

• Posture correction: Sitting and standing with proper alignment prevents added strain on the spine, especially during periods.

Book an online appointment with Dr. Shobana Raman for Pregnancy & Gynecology related issues.

Medical Treatments

If pain persists or becomes too much, there are also some health solutions:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can lower prostaglandin levels, but it is necessary to use them on the advice of a physician.

• Hormonal Therapies: Birth-control medications or other types of hormones may regulate prostaglandins and alleviate symptoms such as pain.

• Physical Therapy: Specific exercise routines and body position adjustment can sometimes alleviate recurring back pain.

When to See a Doctor?

Medical attention is advised if:

• Pain is unusually severe or worsening each cycle.
  
• Back pain does not respond to home remedies or medication.
  
• Pain interferes with daily activities or sleep.
  
• There is severe radiating pain, numbness, or weakness.
  
• Neurological symptoms such as tingling or loss of bladder control appear.
  

These signs may point to conditions that require further evaluation and treatment.

What sets Cloudnine apart?

Cloudnine offers a comprehensive and personalised approach to women’s health concerns, including menstrual pain. The presence of specialists with diagnostic facilities helps Cloudnine focus not only on the symptoms of back pain during periods but also on the underlying cause. Their integrated care model ensures tailored guidance, timely interventions, and ongoing support for long-term relief.

Conclusion

Back pain during periods, whether in the upper, middle or lower back, is a common experience. It is caused mostly by hormones and the contraction of the uterus. Most cases can be resolved through simple lifestyle changes, home remedies, and medical assistance. However, one should never disregard persistent or severe pain. By learning the causes of painful menstruation and the symptoms, one can seek early treatment to reduce pain and discomfort.

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