Menstruation: a sometimes “painful” monthly battle for women

Menstrual pain, often minimized in society, is in reality a monthly ordeal for millions of women. Between cramps, vomiting, extreme fatigue and repeated absences from school or work, this pain can become a real handicap. In Guinea, few women consult a gynecologist, due to lack of information or trivialization of pain. However, it is urgent to raise awareness and consult a specialist at the first abnormal signs.

Menstruation is a physiological phenomenon during which the uterus releases blood and tissue through the vagina. It is a monthly, natural and healthy process in people who have a uterus, not pregnant and of childbearing age (women, girls, transgender men or non-binary people).

Women, whether they are ministers, presidents, misses or ordinary citizens, can be victims of painful periods. From the age of puberty to menopause, some people experience this alarming reality without being understood by those around them (employer, husband, brother, father, etc.).
However, those who are victims suffer in silence, writhing in pain in offices, classrooms, markets... Whatever anyone says, these female pains are real and not imaginary.

Two types of menstrual pain

“There are two main categories of menstrual pain: primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in the first days of menstruation, without an identified medical cause. It is often linked to contractions of the uterus. These pains are common, but can be very intense. explains Dr. Guilavogui Foromo Nestor, general practitioner.

In contrast, secondary dysmenorrhea is generally observed after several cycles. It is often due to infections, certain methods of contraception or pathologies such as endometriosis, fibroids or ovarian cysts.
“This type of pain should raise alarms. It is essential to consult a specialist to make an accurate diagnosis and avoid complications, particularly regarding fertility”, says the doctor.

Every month, a fight against pain

“Often, patients present with intense pain in the lower abdomen, mainly at the start of menstruation. It’s a cyclical pain that returns every month and profoundly disrupts their daily lives”, explains Dr. Nestor. He recalls that some women wait until the pain is unbearable before going to the hospital. “In general, patients only come for consultation when the situation becomes untenable. However, there are medical alternatives such as anti-inflammatories, but also natural solutions such as sport or regular physical exercise. he adds.

Testimony of one, prisoner of her rules

A fight that Marianne Bangoura leads every month, victim of intense menstrual pain “I have suffered from painful periods for 5 years. The pains are varied, such as leg cramps, intense pain in the lower abdomen, vomiting and above all extreme fatigue. This pain is sometimes so severe that I have to stay home and miss school or work until the pain subsides. It’s a real handicap that prevents me from living normally.” testifies Marianne Bangoura.

Despite treatments, some women continue to suffer intensely, like Marianne Bangoura, who tries as best she can to relieve her pain on a daily basis.
“When the pain becomes too severe, I consult my gynecologist who prescribes treatments, including injections to relieve it. I also supplement with Lipton tea and exercise to better manage the symptoms. However, I sometimes feel strange urges and constant anger. Fortunately, those around me support me and understand that it is not a simple pain, but a real ordeal”, she continues.

When should you consult?

According to Dr. Guilavogui, general practitioner, if the pain persists despite basic treatments, medical examinations are absolutely necessary. He also points out that some cases require antibiotics, especially if an infection is detected through tests. “It’s not inevitable. A woman who experiences these signs should go to the hospital immediately to find out what is happening. Otherwise, it can go so far as to affect her fertility,” warns the doctor.

Living with pain every day

Painful periods are today a real problem for the development of women. Thus, it is a fight to be waged to preserve the future and women’s health. “If a young girl or woman suffers from menstrual pain, they must be treated, consult a specialist doctor and find solutions so that she can continue her studies and professional life,” concludes Dr. Guilavogui Foromo Nestor, general practitioner.

Kadiza SOW