✨🩸 Signs You Might Have Dysmenorrhea 🤕✨
✨ Painful periods are NEVER just in your head! I’ve dealt with dysmenorrhea for years—but didn’t even know that’s what it was at first. I’ve been dealing with dysmenorrhea—aka severely painful menstrual cramps—since middle school, and it’s been a journey. I remember when it all started—7th grade. One day my period had came, but something about this one was different. I was nauseous to the point where I could barely move, and if I did, it only made things worse. The only relief came from curling into the fetal position or kneeling with my hips raised—anything to dull the pain.
✨ Due to the severity of the pain and overall discomfort, I had to miss school. I ALWAYS had perfect attendance, so this hurt my nerdy feelings 😭. And can you say I was PISSED when student awards came a week later!???? Ughhh I’m still mad about it to this day 🤣. Anywho— It scared me and my mom enough to make an OB appointment, which led to me getting an ultrasound. Y’all—getting an ultrasound in middle school was terrifying. Especially when your mom looks at you sideways like, “Have you been having sex?” And it’s like—no woman, I’m just in agony.
✨ I was a very naive, innocent child so I figured ultrasounds were only for pregnant people. My mind was innocent so truly I was like is this immaculate conception? Is it real??? 😭 Ignorance aside, that experience ultimately led to my dysmenorrhea diagnosis, and I’ve been learning how to manage it ever since.
📝 Some things that really help me now:
•Taking my prescribed medications before the cramps hit
•Tracking my cycle closely so I’m prepared with the right materials + support
•Heat therapy (heating pads, hot water bottles, warm baths)
•Hydration, rest, and having a plan for the days that are the worst
✨ Even now, the pain can still be unbearable—fatigue, discomfort, you name it. But over time, being proactive rather than reactive has helped to reduce the intensity and frequency. And honestly, just knowing I’m not alone in this journey makes it a little easier. I am also on a low estrogen level BC to prevent periods as much as I can. Previously, I had Nexplanon and they stopped them completely but the weight gain was TERRIBLE. I dropped the weight as soon as I got it taken out (so that speaks volumes). I would like to have a follow-up soon to see if my condition is still primary, or if there is any presentation of fibroids or anything else concerning that denotes it being secondary dysmenorrhea.
🫵🏾 If you’re reading this and feel like something’s not right with your period—please listen to your body.
Follow up with your primary care provider AND your OBGYN. Ask questions. Request an ultrasound. You deserve answers, relief, and validation.
💬 When did you first realize your period pain might be more than just “normal”? Do you have any tips or tools that help you manage your symptoms? Have you ever felt dismissed when trying to get help? Let’s make time for and chat about our feminine health!
#recovery #girltalk #lemon8challenge #bodycare #feminineenergy
Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as painful periods, can significantly impact quality of life. It manifests in two forms: primary dysmenorrhea, which is not linked to any underlying conditions, and secondary dysmenorrhea, which may result from issues like fibroids or endometriosis. Symptoms can include sharp abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, and mood swings. It's crucial to track your cycle and seek professional advice if pain disrupts daily activities. Effective management tools include heat therapy, OTC medications such as NSAIDs, and lifestyle adjustments like hydration and gentle movement. Remember, you're not alone—advocating for your health and seeking the necessary support can lead to better outcomes.
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