Gynecology, What's Up, Down There
Bloating, acne, fatigue, and abdominal cramps are common period symptoms that many of us know all too well. But recently, a TikTok user shed light on another surprising period symptom… “butt cramps.” The video sparked much discussion with women commiserating and wondering what causes this odd and bothersome pain. Here, we explore the science behind this type of cramping and what can be done to treat it.
In the words of women on TikTok, the cramping can feel like a sudden, “lightning bolt strike” or “painful muscle spasms in your booty.” As it turns out, there is a real medical term for this phenomenon known as “proctalgia fugax” or “fleeting anal pain.” According to medical experts, it is normal to experience cramps in your abdomen, back, and yes, even your anus, during your period. Our bodies are full of surprises, aren’t they?
Gina Cunningham, PT, DPT, Director of the Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program at Axia Women’s Health, explains, “I’ve treated many women with this condition. It’s actually more common than you may think.” She adds, “It usually happens around ovulation or the day before your period. It can feel like a sharp sudden pain or can last up to 20 minutes.”
During your period, hormones called prostaglandins are released, which cause the muscles of the uterus to contract, causing the lining of the uterus to shed. Prostaglandins can also trigger contractions of the rectum and the pelvic floor muscles around the anal canal, which can cause a painful spasm or cramping feeling back there. This is why it’s also common to experience loose bowels or diarrhea during your period.
In cases of occasional cramping, you may find some relief with at-home treatments and relaxation techniques.
While it’s common to experience some cramping during your period, it’s important to be aware of other potential causes. Certain underlying conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids can cause similar pain in the pelvic area and require medical attention.
Other gastrointestinal issues can cause ongoing pain in your rectum or anus including Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
While it’s often not cause for alarm, Dr. Gina Cunningham suggests, “If you’re experiencing this pain with each cycle, it’s important to speak up and have it checked out.”
Did you know that our Axia Women`s Health screening centers offer the latest in 3D mammography? With screening centers located within or near many of our care centers, scheduling is easier than ever before. At many of our locations, you can even pair your mammogram with your annual exam, providing added comfort and convenience.
--
#mammogram #breasthealth #3Dmammography #cancerscreening #womenshealth #obgyn #NewJersey #Pennsylvania #Ohio #Indiana #Kentucky
This Barbie takes charge of her health. 💓 Whether you`re due for a Pap smear or not, an annual exam is a powerful way to stay on top of your preventative health. Double tap if you`ve scheduled your annual already this year.
---
#barbie #barbiemovie #womenshealth #femaleempowerment #obgyn #barbiememes #womenshealthdoctor #obgynoffice
Like so many things in life, a "normal" period is really based on what`s normal for you. However, if your flow is persistently varied it may be a sign that something is off. Axia OB/GYN, Dr. Caitlin McCarthy, recently spoke with Women`s Health magazine to highlight some causes behind shorter periods. Visit link in bio to read all the full story.
#periodfacts #womenshealth #obgyn
Did you know that the color of your period could offer clues about your health? Minor changes in period color and texture are normal, but, repeated patterns of period irregularity or painful symptoms could be a sign of a greater health issue. Getting in tune with your menstrual cycle by tracking color of your period, length, and symptoms can help you take charge of your health. Swipe right to learn more!
#menstrualcycle #menstrualcycletracking #periodfacts🔴 #periodhealth #womenshealth
Did you know that your menstrual cycle is more than just the main event – your period? It’s actually a series of four different phases that each play a role in your reproductive health. Getting in touch with your cycle can help you with planning for pregnancy and even detecting other health issues. Swipe right to learn more.
The fertility awareness method (tracking of your menstrual cycle in order to prevent pregnancy) has been gaining traction on TikTok and other social media channels of late. But, does it work? Axia Women`s Health OB/GYN, Dr. Daniel DiSabatino, explains what you need to know about the risks/benefits in a recent interview with Yahoo! Swipe through to learn more.
#fertilityawareness #birthcontrol #naturalfamilyplanning #cycletracking #contraception
The word “vagina” has become an all-encompassing term used to refer to the general area “down there," when in fact, there`s a lot more to our reproductive organs than we may even realize. Can you identify all of the parts here? Swipe right to check your answers. Knowledge is power! 🙌
#femaleanatomy #vagina #vulva #uterus #cervix #ovary #womenshealth #fallopiantubes #whatsupdownthere
PCOS is one cause of an irregular menstrual cycle, but there are many others. Other factors such as stress, thyroid disorders, fibroids, or other hormonal conditions can impact your cycle. The only way to know the true cause is to consult with your provider. Fortunately, many of these conditions are treatable!
#pcos #pcosmonth #pcosfacts #pcosmyths #pcossuport #womenshealth
The truth is because PCOS can disrupt your normal menstrual cycle, it can take longer to get pregnant...but it`s not impossible! 💫👩🏽🍼
Some women may be able to conceive naturally after managing PCOS symptoms, while others may find help in assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. 🔬
Wherever you are in your journey with PCOS, don`t give up hope! 💜 Stay tuned as we shed light on more common myths surrounding PCOS throughout the month.
September 19, 2023
September 19, 2023
August 21, 2023