There can be a lot of reasons behind lower back pain, and this can happen to any age group belonging to any sex. However, the cause of lower back pain in females can be either due to menstruation or pregnancy. But if you are going through it on a regular basis, then it can harm your normal menstrual cycle and other factors like pregnancy or endometriosis.

The problem in females has many potential causes. In this blog, we will quickly look at some of the critical points of this problem. Also, we will discuss when you may need to visit the doctor or get proper medication. 

Now, here are some of the specific lower back pain caused in women that we will discuss in detail to know and these include;

PMS(Premenstrual syndrome)

It is a situation that any woman gets before their menstruation. Most women suffer many problems, but the list is not for all women. Most of them may face all the symptoms, some will go through a few, and few will not get any of these symptoms. 

Physical symptoms include;

  • Headache,
  • Fatigue,
  • Lower back pain,
  • Bloating.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms include;

  • Food cravings,                      
  • Mood swings,
  • Anxiety,
  • Trouble concentrating.

The PMS starts just a few days before your periods and ends within the same day or after two or three days of your periods.

Premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD)

Now this is the more severe form of PMS because the symptoms significantly interfere with the person's daily life. Some women face trouble functioning when they have the symptoms, whereas few have PMDD instead of PMS.

The symptoms are similar to that of PMS. However, the symptoms can be worse. Also, the symptoms generally start three weeks before your menstruation and end a few days after you get your periods. 

It is noticed that you may have an increased risk of PMDD if you already have a family history of mood disorder or depression or have a family history of PMDD. 

Endometriosis

It is a situation where the tissues that line up the uterus, known as the endometrium tissue, grow outside the uterus.

Along with endometriosis, this tissue also grows on fallopian tubes, ovaries, and some other tissues lining the pelvis. It can also increase around the urinary tract and bowel.

Pain is the most common symptom of this problem. Some other symptoms include;

  • Pain during or after sex,
  • Low back and pelvic pain,
  • Excruciating menstrual cramps,
  • Pain with bowel movements or urination during periods.

It can also cause bleeding or spotting between your menstruations. Digestive problems like diarrhea and bloating are common too. This situation can also make it harder to get pregnant.

Dysmenorrhea

It is a medical term used for painful menstrual periods. It commonly causes lower back pain in females. The pain may vary from mild to severe and can interfere with daily activities. Treatments such as over-the-counter pain relievers, heat therapy, exercise, and hormonal medications often alleviate the symptoms. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for proper diagnosis and management.

Pregnancy

Lower back pain is a common issue experienced by pregnant females. The growing uterus and hormonal changes can contribute to increased stress on the lower back, leading to discomfort and pain. Additionally, the body's center of gravity shifts during pregnancy, placing extra strain on the back muscles.

Maintaining proper posture, engaging in gentle exercises, wearing supportive shoes, and using heat or cold therapy can provide relief. It is essential to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions and receive appropriate guidance on managing back pain during pregnancy.

Apart from this, some of the other causes of low back pain causes include;

Muscle strain

Lower back pain can often be caused by muscle strain. This occurs when the muscles in the lower back are stretched or torn due to lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, or poor posture. Rest, gentle stretching, over-the-counter pain relievers, and applying heat or cold packs can help alleviate muscle strain-related lower back pain.

Sciatica

It refers to pain radiating along the sciatic nerve way, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. A herniated disc or bone spur often causes it. Treatment options include physical therapy, pain medication, and in some cases, surgery.

Herniated disc

The situation occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through its outer layer. This can lead to lower back pain if the affected disc is in the lumbar region. The herniation may compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or tingling sensations.

Treatment options include rest, pain medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. A doctor can provide the appropriate diagnosis and recommend appropriate interventions based on the severity of the herniated disc and the individual's symptoms.

Disc degeneration

Disc degeneration refers to the gradual wear and tear of the spinal discs over time, leading to lower back pain. As the discs lose their cushioning ability, it can result in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Treatment options typically include pain management, physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Lifestyle tips

Some activities like drinking alcohol and smoking can cause the inflammation worse. The use of too much salty or fatty foods and caffeine will make your period's symptoms worse.

To avoid this, you must drink a lot of water and eat fruits, vegetables, and other anti-inflammatory foods that will help reduce inflammation and relieve PMS symptoms.

Regular exercise releases natural endorphins, ultimately removing lower back pain. If you find it hard to do the exercise, you must skip it and switch to yoga or swimming.

Also, if you're feeling up to it, you must try to have sex with a partner or solo because having an orgasm can relieve period cramps and will ultimately remove lower back pain. 

When to see a doctor for lower back pain problem

While most cases of lower back pain resolve independently with time and self-care, it is advisable to see a doctor if certain conditions are present.

Seek medical attention if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, unexplained weight loss, loss of bladder or bowel control, or weakness in the legs.                                               

Additionally, suppose the pain results from an injury or trauma or interferes significantly with daily activities. In that case, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, proper diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options.

Medicines:           

Fioricet                                

Butalbital relaxes muscle contractions involved in a tension headache, and Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Caffeine is a Central Nervous System stimulant that relaxes muscle contractions in blood vessels so that it can improve blood flow.