One girl at TikTok was very honest with her experience with pelvic pain during menstruation and many others approved of it. Pelvic pain is a known side effect of menstruation. The pain may appear in the buttocks, anal area or the whole pelvis.
What causes them?
It all has to do with the same factor that causes all the other worries during menstruation - hormones. "As periods begin, the cells that support the uterus, called endometrial cells, break down and release hormones known as prostaglandins," women's health expert Jennifer Wider told Health. "Prostaglandins can cause inflammation and contraction - and some women experience muscle contraction in the gut and rectum."
Prostaglandins make the anal and rectal area more sensitive during this time. "These prostaglandins increase the contractions of rectal and intestinal tissues, which can cause pain and cramps," Jessica Shepherd, founder of Sanctum Med Wellness, told Health.
Although not uncommon, these pains can also be a sign of endometriosis .
What can you do to help ease the way?
Doctors advise taking a warm bath to relax the muscles in the anus and rectum in order to prevent cramps. You can also take pain medication.
If you have such pain on a regular basis, you should consult your doctor to find out what causes it.
