Dysmenorrhea, AKA painful periods, is one of the most common problems experienced among people who menstruate. As you read this blog, it’s important to note that the study we cite refers to “primary” dysmenorrhea - period pain that isn’t caused by a pre-existing condition such as endometriosis or PCOS.
A lot of period pain is caused by uterus contractions during menstruation. Though it’s severely understudied, what is currently understood about this process is that as progesterone levels decrease -in Phase Five- a signal is sent to our body to start menstruation and release certain fatty acids. The release of these fatty acids causes the contractions and cramping that can induce pain!
We looked at a review showing a relationship between a vitamin D and calcium deficiency, and dysmenorrhea. Low levels of vitamin D can increase the production of the fatty acids that cause cramping and reduce intestinal calcium absorption. Low calcium levels can lead to more intense and more frequent muscle contractions in the uterus. This, coupled with less blood flow to the uterus during menstruation is what can contribute to the horrible cramps!
Among other places, vitamin D receptors are found throughout the female reproductive system. When taken appropriately, vitamin D and calcium could reduce the severity of primary dysmenorrhea and the symptoms associated with it such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue. It was also noted that the support these supplements offer could enable us to take fewer analgesics such as Tylenol or NSAIDs. This is especially important as about 18% of people with dysmenorrhea don’t experience relief when using NSAIDs!
Much research is still to be done, but it may be useful to talk to your doctor about which supplements could support your health and help reduce your period pain!
Science, Feminism, and Love
Abdi F, Amjadi MA, Zaheri F, Rahnemaei FA. Role of vitamin D and calcium in the relief of primary dysmenorrhea: a systematic review. Obstet Gynecol Sci. 2021 Jan;64(1):13-26. doi: 10.5468/ogs.20205.
Oladosu FA, Tu FF, Hellman KM. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug resistance in dysmenorrhea: epidemiology, causes, and treatment. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2018 Apr;218(4):390-400. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2017.08.108.
