Menstrual cycles are a part of the natural process that women go through. However, menstruation is quite often associated with misery and pain.

For many women around the world, menstrual cramps, heavy bleeding, mood swings, and various other symptoms can make the menstrual cycle something they dread and wish would never happen. Fortunately, there are physicians who specialize in gynecology and can help alleviate menstrual misery.

What causes menstrual misery?

Before we discuss the physicians that can alleviate menstrual misery, let’s take a look at what causes it. Menstrual misery is a result of several factors, including hormonal changes, inflammation, and your body’s response to pain.

Estrogen and progesterone are two hormones that are essential to the menstrual cycle, but they’re also responsible for many of the symptoms women experience during their cycle.

Many women experience menstrual cramps as a result of the contraction of the uterus. During menstruation, the uterine muscles contract to help expel the blood and other tissues.

The contraction of the uterus can obstruct the blood flow to the uterus, and this obstruction can lead to severe pain, known as menstrual cramps.

Types of physicians who specialize in menstrual misery treatment

If you’re experiencing menstrual misery, you should consider visiting a gynecologist. A gynecologist is a medical professional who specializes in the female reproductive system.

Gynecologists usually offer a wide range of services to help women manage their menstrual cycle and other reproductive health needs. Here are some types of physicians who specialize in menstrual misery treatment:.

Obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN)

An obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) is a physician who specializes in the female reproductive system. OB-GYNs can provide care during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum, as well as diagnose and treat reproductive system conditions.

They can perform surgeries, including hysterectomies, tubal ligations, and D&C procedures. OB-GYNs can also perform Pap smears, and some specialize in treating menstrual disorders such as PCOS, endometriosis, and fibroids.

Reproductive endocrinologist

A reproductive endocrinologist is a physician who specializes in hormonal disorders and their effects on fertility. They can diagnose and treat infertility, endometriosis, and other hormonal disorders that affect a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Reproductive endocrinologists can also prescribe medications to help regulate hormones, control menstrual bleeding, and reduce menstrual pain.

Pelvic pain specialist

A pelvic pain specialist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating pelvic pain disorders. They can diagnose and treat conditions such as endometriosis, leiomyomas, and PID, which can cause menstrual pain.

Pelvic pain specialists can perform surgeries such as laparoscopies to remove pelvic adhesions or to diagnose and treat endometriosis.

Primary care provider

You can also visit your primary care provider (PCP) for menstrual misery treatment. PCPs are doctors who specialize in family medicine, internal medicine, or general practice.

They can perform pelvic exams, provide genetic counseling, and offer counseling and medication management for menstrual disorders such as menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, and premenstrual syndrome.

Treatment options for menstrual misery

The treatment for menstrual misery will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition. Here are some treatment options for menstrual misery:.

Over-the-counter pain relievers

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin can help reduce menstrual cramps and other menstrual pain.

However, these medications may not provide long-term relief and can have side effects, such as nausea, stomach upset, and ulcers.

Birth control pills

Oral contraceptives may be used to help regulate hormonal imbalances that cause menstrual misery.

Birth control pills contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone, and when taken regularly, they can reduce menstrual flow, regulate menstrual cycles, and ease menstrual cramps. However, birth control pills may not be suitable for all women, and they may have side effects such as headaches, weight gain, and mood swings.

Alternative therapies

Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, and aromatherapy may help reduce menstrual misery. Acupuncture involves inserting small needles into certain points of the body to relieve pain and stress.

Yoga can help relax the mind and body, reduce stress, and improve circulation. Aromatherapy involves inhaling essential oils that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Surgery

Sometimes, surgery may be necessary to manage menstrual misery.

For example, if you have a uterine fibroid that causes excessive bleeding and severe pain, or if you have endometriosis that causes severe pain and discomfort, surgery may be necessary to remove the mass. Surgical procedures such as hysterectomy, uterine artery embolization, or endometrial ablation may be recommended to manage excessive bleeding and severe pain.

Conclusion

Menstrual misery can be extremely challenging for women to endure, but there are physicians who specialize in managing the condition.

By seeking treatment from these specialists, you can receive a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to help you manage your menstrual misery. Remember to talk to your doctor about your symptoms, concerns, and any questions you may have about menstrual misery.