Hello everyone!
Pain is a universal human experience that every gender experiences. However, women are more prone to unique pains that require effective management. It is usually due to the physiological peculiarities specific to women. For example, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle can bring on aches and discomfort. Data proves this further by stating that up to 80% of pregnant women experience lower back pain. This article sheds light on common pain conditions women experience and how to manage them.
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Menstrual pain
This type of pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is prevalent among women in their reproductive years. It usually presents a few days before menstruation but may vary in some women who experience it. The aches differ in intensity, and while some women have a wider pain threshold, it doesn’t negate the fact that the discomfort is real. Menstrual pain can interfere with your daily activities, so you must manage it. Some women swear by heat therapy and the relief it presents. The relief may be due to the muscle relaxation that occurs when exposed to heat. Some prefer using the heat pad, while others like a warm or hot bath to ease the pain. It’s worth noting that regular exercise also helps reduce the severity and duration of menstrual pain or dysmenorrhea. Yoga and stretching exercises relax the abdominal muscles to bring relief. The tip, however, is to exercise regularly to get the full benefits.
Migraines and headaches
An NPR.org report stated that migraines present more in boys than girls during puberty. That dramatically changes when a girl begins menstruating, and her hormones experience several changes. The latter describes the hormonal fluctuations that occur in a female’s reproductive years, which begin at the onset of her first period or menarche. Research attributes the drastic switch to estrogen and other hormones at play, explaining the prevalence in women. You never know when a migraine will start, but knowing your triggers can help. It can be specific foods, drinks, or unmanaged stress. Unfortunately, migraines require long-term management, but a crucial management tip is to reduce the frequency and intensity. Eating healthily, regularly sleeping, and staying hydrated can minimize migraine frequency. Pain management strategies like over-the-counter medications and specialized care can help reduce intensity and frequency. However, the best thing to do is consult a healthcare professional to tailor treatment to your needs.
Back pain during pregnancy
Most pregnant women experience pain from the second to the third trimester, with pelvic and back pains being the most common. These are expected because your body expands beyond its normal limit to accommodate the growing baby. Many doctors avoid prescribing pain medications for these regular discomforts in pregnant women. However, there are alternative ways to address such pregnancy pains. First, pregnancy chiropractic care is a non-invasive and drug-free approach that helps bring much-needed relief to expectant women. An experienced chiropractor applies gentle adjustments to align the spine and, more importantly, reduce pelvic and lower back discomfort. Chiropractic care can be safe and effective only when a trained professional performs it. Even better, relying on one with ample experience in prenatal chiropractic care is best.
By understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate medical care, women can effectively manage these unique pains and improve their overall well-being.
Talk soon,
