Menstruation pain

[MARG1]

Thank you Dr. for answering my previous question.

My husband and I have been trying to conceive since Feb. 2006.  I have never used ovulation predictors.  Thank you for the orientation on what days to use them.  I will give that a try.  I am 25 years old.  I have had no previous pregnancies.

I think, however, that I should have a doctor evaluate the long menstrual cycle.  I will ask if he/she would like to perform any of the hormone tests (thyroid test, a prolactin level, a cycle day 3 FSH test, and a progesterone level) you suggested.  I started my periods at age 11 and it has always caused much discomfort and pain.  I usually have to hold my breath to relieve the pain or take medicine to alleviate the pain.  Is this pain normal during the menstruation?

[opinmin]

The pain you are experiencing with your periods is very common.  It is called Dymenorrhea.  An excess of Prostaglandins, cellular lipid compounds, that send pain signals to the brain in turn causing the uterus to contract which causes for a miserable period.  Good news, this can completely dissappear after having your first baby and/or with aging.  Usually it responds well to anti-inflammatory meds (ibuprofen).  If you are experiencing pain not during your period time too that would indicate there is something else going on and definitely should be assess by your OB/GYN especially since you are having trouble conceiving.  Remember, it could be a problem with you or your husband;
keep that in mind with this conceiving issue.  Good luck.  

[FurballsMom]

When I stopped eating gluten and dairy, I stopped having giant blood clots and severe cramping with my periods.  I still have heavy periods, but clearly there was a connection to the gluten and dairy issue if I noticed such an improvement in my periods.

[SassyLassie]

Hello~Some women get very bad pain during their cycle, however, it could also be due to endometriosis, having this can also make it very hard to conceive. I would have a doctor test you for this and if it turns out that you have it, there are some things they can do.