Experiencing lower back pain several days before menstruation can be common. It is usually associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) but can sometimes occur from other gynecological conditions such as endometriosis and dysmenorrhea.
There are several ways lower back pain caused by menstruation can be treated, such as with OTC and prescription medications, heat therapy, and acupressure.
We use the term “women” in this article to reflect the term assigned at birth. However, gender is solely about how you identify yourself, independent of your physical body.
Causes
Several health conditions can result in lower back pain, including gynecological conditions like dysmenorrhea, PMS, and endometriosis.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
PMS is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that can occur before or during your period. PMS can begin up to 2 weeks before menstruation. However, most people experience symptoms such as lower back pain around 1 week before their period.
Symptoms of PMS include:
- stomach cramps
- constipation
- lower back pain
- diarrhea
- nausea
- mood changes
- depression
- trouble sleeping
The Office on Women’s Health reports that 90% of those who menstruate experience PMS symptoms. A 2022 review suggests that increases in progesterone sensitivity and serotonin deficiency could contribute to PMS.
Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual pain, includes symptoms such as abdominal pain and dull cramps. Menstrual pain, particularly in the lower abdomen, can often be caused by contracting uterine muscles and blood vessels. The condition can also result in other symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, and lower back pain.
Dysmenorrhea can be classified in two ways:
- primary dysmenorrhea
- secondary dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea is lower abdominal pain that happens during menstruation and is not the result of any other health conditions.
Secondary dysmenorrhea can occur from other conditions, such as endometriosis.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition caused by trapped tissue and lesions forming outside of the uterus. It can result in severe pain and inflammation that can impact day-to-day life.
Symptoms of endometriosis include:
- chronic pelvic pain
- painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- nausea
- fatigue
- heavy or irregular periods
- diarrhea
Pelvic pain experienced during an endometriosis flare-up can often contribute to further symptoms such as lower back pain.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, consider speaking with a healthcare professional who can help identify a suitable treatment plan for you.
Treatment
Many treatment methods, including OTC and prescription medications, can help relieve lower back pain during menstruation. Home remedies such as heat therapy and acupressure can also help.
Medication
Several medications can help alleviate symptoms caused by gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis and dysmenorrhea.
These include:
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which are available OTC. Examples include: aspirin (Disprin) and ibuprofen (Caldolor)
- birth control pills, which can help ease abdominal pain. These medications are only available through a prescription. Examples include norethindrone (Aygestin) and ethinylestradiol (Alesse).
If you find that lower back pain before and during your period interferes with your day-to-day life, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can suggest whether medication would be a suitable treatment.
If you need help covering the cost of medications, the free Optum Perks Discount Card could help you save up to 80% on prescription drugs. Follow the links on drug names for savings on that medication, or search for a specific drug here.
