Understanding Menopause Cramps: Causes and Treatments
Menopause can bring various hormonal changes, and a decrease in Estrogen levels can lead to multiple symptoms, including Menopause cramps.
These cramps, often resembling menstrual-like pains, can be physically and emotionally distressing for women.
There are various treatment options available to get relief from Menopause cramps.
In this article, we will learn about various causes of cramps after Menopause and their treatment options.
Understanding Menopause cramps
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is typically experienced between 45 and 55.
During this time, the body undergoes hormonal changes, and a decrease in Estrogen levels can lead to various symptoms, including Menopause cramps.
Menopause or menstrual-like cramps are characterized by aching or sharp pains in the lower abdomen.
They often occur without the presence of menstrual bleeding and can be both physically and emotionally distressing.
The intensity and frequency of these cramps can vary from woman to woman.
Generally, they arise due to hormonal fluctuations and changes in the uterine lining.
Cause of cramps after Menopause
Various conditions can cause pelvic cramps after Menopause.
Some women may also face ovarian cramps after Menopause.
The following are the treatable causes that can lead to cramps:
Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are small non-cancerous growths that can appear in the wall of the uterus (womb).
They often occur before Menopause but can still happen in older individuals.
Fibroids typically stop growing or get smaller after Menopause.
Fibroids don’t always cause symptoms.
But some people may still have symptoms like pelvic pressure or cramps even after their periods have stopped.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that usually lines the womb grows in places it shouldn’t, like around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or bowel.
It usually affects people between 30 and 40 years old, but it’s rare to have symptoms after Menopause.
Symptoms of Endometriosis:
- Pelvic pain
- Pain in the lower back
- Pain during or after sex
- Pain while urinating
For some people, Endometriosis can affect their lives and lead to depression.
Chronic constipation
Chronic constipation means not having regular bowel movements (less than three times a week).
It can lead to lower pelvic pressure, pain, and digestive problems.
People experiencing constipation may have dry, hard, or lumpy stools that are painful or challenging to pass.
Causes of constipation are:
- Lack of exercise
- Some medications
- Low fiber diet
Consult your doctor in case you are facing severe or persistent constipation.
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is a digestive tract infection that can make you feel cramps in your abdomen and pelvis.
It causes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The infection can be caused by viruses (known as stomach flu) or bacteria (food poisoning).
Most cases get better on their own, but severe ones may need medication or hospitalization.
If you have ongoing vomiting and diarrhea, staying hydrated is crucial to avoid serious complications, even death.
Ovarian and uterine cancers
Ovarian and uterine cancers can lead to cramps in the abdomen or pelvis.
These types of cancers are more common in older people than younger individuals.
Some other symptoms you may face if you have cancer are:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Tiredness
- Abdominal bleeding
- Weight loss
Diagnosis
While diagnosing for cramps after Menopause, your doctor may ask you about your medical history and physical examination.
To know if an underlying condition is causing abdominal cramps, the doctor may also perform the following tests:
- Transvaginal ultrasound scan: Your doctor will put a small device into the person’s vagina to check for any issues
- Endometrial biopsy: Your doctor will insert a thin tube into your womb to collect a small piece of tissue for examination. They will check the tissue for any signs of abnormal or cancerous cells
- Hysteroscopy: A doctor will use a thin tube with a camera, called a hysteroscope, to look inside a person’s womb through the vagina. They will take a small tissue sample for testing. This procedure is usually done with local or general anesthesia
- Sonohysterography: A doctor will inject a saltwater solution into a person’s womb and then use an ultrasound to check for any issues
- Dilation and curettage: A doctor will open the person’s cervix and use a thin tool to collect a sample of the womb lining. They will examine the sample to check for abnormal growths like polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, or cancer
Treatment
The treatment of Menopause cramps depends on the underlying cause.
Some possible treatment options are as follows:
Progestin therapy
Progestin therapy helps by providing a synthetic form of the hormone Progesterone.
This hormone helps regulate the uterine lining and reduces its thickness, decreasing cramps.
It can also help alleviate other menopause-related symptoms like cramps, irregular bleeding, and hot flashes.
Progestin is available in oral tablets, injections, vaginal creams, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgery that removes part or all of a person’s womb.
It is commonly used to treat endometrial or cervical cancer, large fibroids, or a precancerous form of Endometrial hyperplasia.
This helps relieve pelvic cramps after Menopause due to unwanted growths.
Home remedies
People with cramps can also try medications and some natural ways available at home.
Some home remedies that can benefit are:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen
- Gentle exercises and slow walking
- Maintaining normal bowel movements
- A heat pack or hot water bottle
Conclusion
Menopause ends a woman’s reproductive years, leading to menopause cramps due to hormonal changes.
Various conditions cause pelvic cramps after Menopause, like fibroids, Endometriosis, constipation, Gastroenteritis, and ovarian or uterine cancers.
Doctors use tests like ultrasound, biopsy, and hysteroscopy to diagnose the cause.
Treatments include progestin therapy, dilation, curettage surgery, or a hysterectomy for severe cases.
Home remedies like pain relievers, gentle exercises, maintaining bowel movements, and heat packs can also help manage menopause cramps.
Consult a healthcare professional for the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have cramps during Menopause?
Yes, it is normal to experience cramps during Menopause. Hormonal changes and fluctuations in Estrogen levels can cause menopause cramps, similar to menstrual-like pains, as a common symptom during this phase of a woman’s life.
What home remedies can I use for menopause cramps?
Home remedies for menopause cramps may include over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen. Gentle exercises, maintaining regular bowel movements, and applying heat packs or hot water bottles for comfort and relief.
How long can perimenopause cramps last?
The duration of perimenopause cramps can vary from woman to woman. They may last a few months to several years as the body undergoes hormonal changes and prepares for Menopause.
How can I stop menopause pain?
To alleviate menopause pain, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers, progestin therapy, gentle exercises, and using heat packs. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized treatment options based on specific symptoms and needs.
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