Is Painful Menstruation Normal?

Menstrual cramps also known as Dysmenorrhea happens when the muscles in the uterus contract or tighten. Pain can include cramping and heaviness in the pelvic area, as well as pain in the lower back, stomach or even legs. Some women also experience nausea, vomiting, paleness, diarrhea or loose bowels. Period pain is more common in adolescents and women in their 20s, but can also occur in older women.

There are natural ways to relieve menstrual pain.  Regular exercise, warm compresses, rest, and back/abdominal massage can be beneficial. Also through the use of medications like Ibuprofen and other pain killers. While these steps might offer some relief, if the pain is still interfering with everyday activities, then it is definitely time to see a doctor.

Most importantly, women need to understand their bodies in order to be able to take care of it properly and give it what it needs. Which is why it is important to talk about these topics, and yes period pains are totally normal even though they can be excruciatingly painful but sadly it is what we have to deal with as women for half our lives. It is okay to seek help and use medications to ease your pain. Hope we all find what works for us.

Menstruation is a taboo topic in some cultures, and unfortunately some young women feel embarrassed to talk about their monthly period pain with their parents, or even a doctor. The stigma about menses in some sectors of the Muslim community must end since it is un-Islamic and backwards. Why should anyone shame a woman for a part of her anatomy that Allah (SWT) created in His perfect wisdom?.