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Menstrual cycles can cause muscle aches, especially for women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The most common symptoms of PMS include mood swings, pelvic pain, butt pain, and severe menstrual cramping, all of which can be disruptive. These discomforts are often linked to hormonal shifts during ovulation or the shedding of the uterine lining. In addition, conditions such as uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder can exacerbate symptoms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Aches caused by menstrual cycle | Muscle aches, joint aches, headaches, lower back pain, abdominal pain, leg pain |
| Possible causes | Hormonal changes, low oestrogen, prostaglandins, underlying gynecological issues (e.g. uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis) |
| Treatment | Home remedies, herbal remedies (e.g. soy isoflavones, devil's claw, arnica), hormonal contraceptives, laparoscopic surgery, prescription pain relievers, aerobic exercise, dietary changes |
| Related conditions | Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), period flu, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual dysphoric disorder |
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What You'll Learn
Hormonal changes
Menstrual periods can cause muscle aches, especially for women dealing with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Common PMS symptoms include mood swings, pelvic pain, buttock pain, and severe menstrual cramping, all of which can be disruptive. These discomforts are often linked to hormonal shifts during ovulation or the shedding of the uterus lining.
Hormone-like substances called prostaglandins increase during menstruation and can cause pain in the uterus and stomach, as well as nausea, headaches, and diarrhoea. Prostaglandins can also increase inflammation and uterine contractions, which may trigger muscle and joint pain. Additionally, low oestrogen levels during menstruation can cause joint pain and mood swings, irritability, anger, water retention, and heavy periods.
The hormonal changes during menstruation can also lead to underlying gynaecological issues, such as uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which can exacerbate muscle pain. Endometriosis, a condition where tissue grows outside the uterus, can cause leg pain by affecting nearby nerves.
The prevalence of hormone imbalances in women is high, and many find relief by consuming herbs and natural remedies. Soy isoflavones, for example, can help restore hormone balance and alleviate joint pain. Devil's claw and arnica are also recommended for muscle and joint pain relief.
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Underlying gynecological issues
While menstrual periods can cause muscle aches, these aches may also point to underlying gynecological issues. These issues can make it challenging to focus on responsibilities or enjoy daily activities.
Uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder are some conditions that can exacerbate muscle ache symptoms. Adhesions or scar tissue from previous surgeries can also play a role. For example, endometriosis, a condition where tissue grows outside the uterus and affects nearby nerves, can cause leg pain. Adenomyosis, considered the "sister" condition of endometriosis, involves abnormal cell growth into the muscle wall of the uterus. Symptoms include abnormal or heavy period bleeding, painful periods, and painful sex.
In addition to these conditions, hormonal imbalances can also cause muscle aches. The prevalence of hormone imbalances in women is alarming, and many find relief by consuming herbs and other natural remedies. Soy isoflavones, for instance, can help restore hormone balance and alleviate symptoms of low estrogen, including mood swings, water retention, and painful, heavy periods. Devil's claw is another herbal remedy that can help relieve muscle and joint pain.
If muscle aches are interfering with your daily life, it may be time to consult a doctor. Laparoscopic surgery, for instance, can be used to remove tissue causing severe symptoms. Additionally, contraceptives like birth control pills can help manage severe symptoms.
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Herbal remedies
Menstrual cycles can cause muscle aches, especially for women dealing with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The symptoms of PMS include mood swings, pelvic pain, butt pain, and severe menstrual cramping, which can be disruptive to daily life. These aches may be caused by hormonal changes or underlying gynecological issues, such as uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Soy Isoflavones
If your joint pain is cyclical, it could be due to low levels of oestrogen. Soy isoflavones can help gently restore hormone balance. Other symptoms of low oestrogen include mood swings, particularly feeling irritable and angry, water retention, and painful, heavy periods.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is a licensed herbal remedy for muscle and joint pain or backache. Arnica is a nice topical alternative that is particularly soothing when stored in the fridge before use.
Hertime
Hertime is a supplement that contains carefully selected herbs, vitamins, and minerals known to support women's reproductive health. It may help with severe period cramps and muscle aches, which can be caused by a hormone imbalance.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil is thought to work as a muscle relaxant and has been studied as a treatment for gastrointestinal issues. It may help release tension and relieve the pain caused by menstrual contractions. The fresh or dried leaves of peppermint can be used in food or as tea. However, a more concentrated form, such as peppermint extract, may be needed to relieve menstrual cramps.
Pycnogenol
Pycnogenol is a French extract containing maritime pine bark. A 2008 study suggested that it could reduce pain and the need for OTC painkillers in women with menstrual cramps.
Chinese Herbs
According to a 2008 Cochrane review, Chinese herbs were able to relieve menstrual cramps better than OTC painkillers. The most commonly used herbs include angelica root, fennel fruit, licorice root, cinnamon bark, and red peony root. Dang-Gui-Shao-Yao-San, which contains angelica root and red peony root, has both sedative and anti-inflammatory properties. It is the most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal formula for treating primary dysmenorrhea in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Turmeric
Curcumin, a natural chemical in turmeric, may help with PMS symptoms. A small 2022 study found that women with PMS and dysmenorrhea who took a curcumin capsule for 7 days before their period and 3 days after experienced increased vitamin D levels, which can reduce symptoms.
Ginger
Ginger tea, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can reduce inflammation and ease period pain, making it an effective remedy for painful menstrual cramps. Ginger tea can be made by simmering fresh ginger slices in hot water for 10-15 minutes or by using ginger tea bags.
Chamomile
Chamomile tea is renowned for its calming effects, helping to relax muscles and ease menstrual cramps. To brew chamomile tea, steep a chamomile tea bag or loose chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes to release its calming properties fully.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may help combat inflammation, making them effective natural remedies for menstrual pain and PMS symptoms. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich sources of omega-3s, making them excellent additions to the diet for menstrual health. These fatty acids work by regulating prostaglandin levels, the compounds responsible for triggering uterine contractions and causing period pain.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of herbal remedies may vary among individuals, and it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before trying any new supplement or herbal remedy, especially if you are taking medication or have any health concerns.
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Exercise
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends 30 minutes of aerobic exercise on most days to reduce the symptoms of period flu, which is caused by changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and causes rapid breathing. Biking, swimming, running, and brisk walking are all examples of aerobic activities.
Gentle exercise is recommended during your period, so try not to over-exert yourself. If you are experiencing severe pain, it is important to seek professional advice.
It is worth noting that muscle aches during your period can be caused by a number of factors, including hormonal changes, gynecological issues, and conditions such as endometriosis.
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Dietary changes
Firstly, it is recommended to follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in magnesium. This means cutting down on saturated animal fats, processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. Instead, opt for whole grain foods, such as whole grain bread, brown rice, and beans. These complex carbohydrates can help keep blood sugar levels steady.
Secondly, eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables, which are rich in calcium and help to fight inflammation. Calcium is also found in dairy products, such as yogurt. In addition, eat foods containing polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and flaxseeds. These foods are rich in omega-3, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
Finally, ensure you are staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids, such as tea. This can help to ease muscle pain and cramping.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, muscle aches can be caused by the menstrual cycle.
The exact cause of muscle aches during the menstrual cycle is not certain. However, it is believed to be linked to hormonal shifts during ovulation or the shedding of the uterus lining.
The most commonly affected areas during the menstrual cycle are the neck, shoulders, lower back, hips, and thighs.
There are various ways to relieve muscle aches during the menstrual cycle, including herbal remedies, dietary changes, and mild exercises.
