Why Do Period Cramps Happen? The Biology Behind Menstrual Discomfort
For some, periods are no problem – but for the vast majority of us, they come with a vengeance each month, bringing backaches, nausea, and dozens of other unpleasant symptoms along for the ride. Studies have shown that between 50-90% of people who menstruate experience cramps during their period. (If you’re in the small percentage who doesn’t, consider yourself lucky!)
It’s no secret that cramps are caused by your uterus contracting as it sheds its lining. But what actually causes them to hurt? And why do some women feel more uncomfortable during their periods than others? Read along as we break down the biology behind cramps in plain language so you can understand your cycle better and, hopefully, find some relief as a result.
What's Actually Happening in Your Body During a Period
During the menstrual phase of your cycle (days 1-5), estrogen and progesterone levels drop, signaling the uterus to shed its lining. The thick lining of the uterus breaks down and tissue, mucus, and blood leave the body. To effectively push out this material, the uterus contracts – often resulting in the feeling of cramps.
The Role of Prostaglandins
During the breakdown of your uterine lining, the body releases hormone-like chemicals called prostaglandins. These little guys are a necessary evil, as your uterus needs a certain amount of them to do its job during your menstrual cycle. But if your body produces an excess of prostaglandins, that’s when things can get ugly: your uterus contracts more than it needs to, that uncomfortable heaviness settles in, and you find yourself hunkered down with your heating pad on blast, begging for even an ounce of relief.
Why Some Cycles Feel More Intense Than Others
You’re more likely to experience menstrual cramps if you…
• Are younger than 30 years old
• Started puberty at an early age (age 11 or younger)
• Bleed heavily during periods
• Experience irregular bleeding
• Have a family history of menstrual cramps
• Are a smoker
The intensity of your discomfort can vary from cycle to cycle based on lifestyle factors, stress levels, and even dietary changes.
Common Areas Where Discomfort Shows Up
Your uterus and your lower back share some of the same nerve pathways. When your uterus is contracting to shed its lining during that time of the month, the signals don’t always stay put. Sometimes they migrate over to your lower back instead, or show up in both places at once.
Ways People Find Relief
There are several ways to help ease the discomfort during “that time of the month.”
Rest. Getting enough sleep helps to ease the symptoms of your cycle. When you sleep, your body is able to focus its energy on feeling better. In other words, resting while on your period isn’t lazy. It’s essential for relief.
Focus on nutrition. If you don’t take a daily multivitamin, now is the time to start! Certain vitamins and herbs have been shown to decrease menstrual cramps. Cutting back on junk food and reducing the amount of salty foods you eat can also help.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to improve blood circulation and helps with lowering water retention. Staying hydrated can help your body pass menstrual flow more easily.
Use heat. If you’re able to take advantage of down time, heating pads or using a hot water bottle over your abdomen can help relax the uterine muscles, potentially easing cramping.
Meet Jovi. For relief on the go, the Jovi Patch is a reusable, drug-free patch that helps you get back to the softer side of your cycle. Each Jovi patch contains patent-pending Signal Relief technology, a layered array of microscopic particles. This technology is designed to work with your body's own signals without drugs, chemicals, hormones, or electrical currents. When the patch is placed on or near the source of discomfort, the technology inside is designed to quiet the noise so you can focus on what matters most, not what’s holding you back.
When to Pay Closer Attention to Your Cycle
Despite what some doctors, family, and friends might have told you in the past, severe cramps or debilitating discomfort during your cycle is not normal. If you are experiencing discomfort that keeps you in bed, causes you to cancel plans, sit out on extracurricular activities, or call into work regularly, it may be time to discuss the details of your cycle with your physician.
For too long, women’s wellness has been marketed as a series of “problems” to be masked. We were taught to keep period talk as taboo and accept uncomfortable cycles as an unchangeable burden of biology. Jovi was made for the woman who has coped and carried on – and is ready for actual relief. Learn more about how Jovi works.
Period Cramp FAQ
Why do cramps feel worse some months?
Hormone fluctuations are normal month-to-month, changing the amount of prostaglandins produced by your body. Lifestyle factors like stress levels, diet, sleep, and activity (or lack thereof) can also contribute to differing discomfort levels.
Is it normal for cramps to radiate to the back?
Yes, to an extent. Your uterus and your lower back share some of the same nerve pathways. When your uterus is contracting to shed its lining during that time of the month, the signals don’t always stay put. Sometimes they migrate over to your lower back instead, or show up in both places at once.
How long do period cramps typically last?
The duration of period cramps varies from person to person. Some experience cramps for only a day or two during their cycle, while others may experience them even before the menstrual phase begins. On average, you may feel uncomfortable for 3 days total. If you experience pain longer or if your cramps last throughout your entire period (or longer), you should discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
