By Admin 
The first day of periods is the most difficult for many women. Suddenly severe pain starts in the lower abdomen. The body feels heavy, there is pain in the waist, sometimes there is nausea and sometimes even diarrhea may occur. In such a situation, even simple daily tasks like going to office, studying or household work seem very difficult. But you might have noticed that this pain gradually subsides by the third or fourth day. By then the cramps become bearable and the body starts feeling a little normal. In such a situation, many times a question comes to mind that why does this happen, why is the first day of periods the most painful and then one starts getting relief. So let us know what is the reason behind periods pain being more on the first day and less later on.
Why is the pain so bad on the first day?
According to Dr. Kirti Khaitan, Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi and Dr. Sakshi Goyal, Senior Gynecologist at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, it is directly related to hormonal changes in the body and a chemical called prostaglandin. On the first day of periods, the level of a chemical called prostaglandin is highest in the body. This chemical helps the uterus to shrink, so that it can expel its lining. When prostaglandin is produced in large quantities, the uterus contracts faster and harder; the more and stronger the contractions, the more pain will be felt. In the first 24 to 48 hours, most of the lining of the uterus comes out. After this the level of prostaglandin starts decreasing. Therefore, the pain also reduces by the third-fourth day.
Pain increases due to lack of oxygen in the uterus
When the uterus contracts repeatedly and forcefully, the surrounding blood vessels get compressed for a short time. Due to this, less blood and oxygen reaches the muscles of the uterus. When an area does not get enough oxygen, there is sharp and cramp-like pain. This is why the pain on the first day may feel like throbbing or very sharp. As the spasms subside, blood flow returns to normal and the pain subsides.
More bleeding means more cramps
Generally, bleeding is highest on the first and second days of periods. When large amounts of blood and tissue have to be expelled, the uterus has to use more force. Bleeding reduces by the fourth day. When there is not much layer left to remove, the uterus does not have to work as hard, this provides relief. In young girls, the opening of the cervix may be a little narrow. When blood exits this small passage, you may feel more pressure for the first day or two. As the flow reduces, this pressure also reduces and the pain starts reducing.
When to understand that pain is not normal?
Mild or moderate pain is common, but if the pain is severe, it should not be ignored. Consult a doctor. If the pain is so severe that one starts vomiting or fainting, the pain is increasing every year, there is excessive bleeding, there is no relief even with painkillers or the pain occurs even in between periods. In such cases, problems like endometriosis, adenomyosis or fibroids may occur, which require treatment.
How to get relief from first day pain?
If you know that there will be more pain on the first day, it may be helpful to prepare in advance. Place a heating pad on the lower abdomen, take painkillers on time as prescribed by the doctor, do light stretching or slow walking, drink plenty of water and maintain a calendar of your periods. Stress, lack of sleep and poor diet can further increase the pain. Therefore, it is important to adopt a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Also read – Why are couples facing fertility problems even in their 20s, know from experts
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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