Abdullah Al-Haqim 
Back pain is one of the common health troubles that accompanies the menstrual cycle in many women, and it has a noticeable effect on their daily lives. The appearance of these pain depends on several physical and hormonal factors.
Below we review the causes and factors affecting back pain during the menstrual cycle, in addition to the recommended methods to mitigate and prevent them:
The causes of back pain during the menstrual cycle
Uterine cramps and their direct impact
Uterine contraction is one of the most important reasons that lead to back pain during the menstrual cycle. In each cycle, the uterus contracts to help get rid of its inner lining, and these cramps may extend to the lower back, causing pain spread over the surrounding area.
These contractions may be a natural part of the monthly process, but they may be painful in some cases.
Hormonal changes
Changes in hormones play a major role in back pain:
- Prostatendin: High levels of this hormone may increase muscle allergy, which leads to its faster and more severe contraction, thus increasing the feeling of pain.
- Estrogen: The oscillations in estrogen levels, especially during the pre -menstruation period, may affect the body’s response to pain, which contributes to the appearance of back pain.
Water retention and its effect on the muscles
Fluid retention is one of the common effects of the menstrual cycle, as it leads to swelling of tissues and water retention, which puts additional pressure on the spine and the surrounding muscles.
This retention may lead to a feeling of muscle strain and pain in the back area, as scientific reports indicated a relationship between water retention and back pain during the menstrual cycle.
Additional factors
Other factors such as stress, bad sitting positions and lack of physical activity may contribute to increasing the severity of back pain during the menstrual period. These factors can generally lead to muscle tension, making the body more sensitive to uterine cramps and hormonal changes.
Methods of relieving back pain during the menstrual cycle
Heat applications and thermal remedies
The use of heat is one of the easiest and effective mitigation methods:
- Hot water bottle or hot kinship: The heat helps to expand blood vessels and stimulate blood circulation, which leads to muscle relaxation and relief.
- Hot plasters: It works in a similar way to provide local heat that reduces muscle tension.
Thermal therapy can be useful in reducing muscle tension and improving blood circulation in the back area.
Exercise and yoga exercise
Exercise plays an important role in relieving back pain during the menstrual cycle:
- Light walking: It contributes to improving blood circulation and relieving muscle tension.
- Yoga exercises: Such as the “cow/cat” exercise that helps stretch and strengthen the back muscles.
The exercise is carried out in the position of the quadruple organism, then it was taken into the head and the back (the position of the cow) and with the exhalation the back is wrapped in the direction of the interior (the position of the cat). It is recommended to repeat these movements 5-10 times to get the best results.
Relaxation techniques and tension management
Tension and stress are contributing factors in exacerbating back pain. Therefore, it is recommended:
- Deep breathing exercises and meditation: It helps relieve muscle tension and improve general relaxation.
- Physiotherapy: In some cases, it may be useful to resort to physical therapy to improve body position and relieve pain.
Tension management through relaxation techniques can make a clear improvement in back pain symptoms during the cycle.
When should you consult a doctor?
Although back pain during the menstrual cycle is common and natural, the continuation of pain/increased intensity may indicate other cases:
- Migratory endometrium: Severe and persistent pain may be a sign of a migratory uterine lining, a chronic condition that needs specialized medical diagnosis and treatment.
- Other problems with the musculoskeletal system: Such as joint infections or spine problems.
It is advised to resort to consulting a doctor if the pain hinders daily activities or accompanied by other unusual symptoms.
Tips to maintain back health
- Maintaining a correct sitting position: Use comfortable chairs that support the lower back and avoid sitting for long periods in wrong positions.
- Using support cushions: Especially when sitting or while sleeping, as support pillows can help reduce pressure on the spine.
- Practicing back muscles: Through resistance and expansion exercises that help support the spine and improve its strength.
