Why are my periods getting worse ? Causes and natural solutions

On average, 50 to 90% of women suffer from dysmenorrhea (painful periods) to varying degrees; in 20% of them, the pain is severe enough to disrupt their daily activities (Fertility and Sterility, 2020). This progressive worsening is notably explained by an overproduction of prostaglandins (up to 2.5 times higher according to J Reprod Med, 2019), leading to stronger uterine contractions and local hypoxia of the myometrium. Over the course of cycles, this repeated inflammation can evolve into secondary dysmenorrhea, characterized by more severe and prolonged pain.

An inadequate estrogen/progesterone ratio increases the sensitivity of uterine nerve fibers and strengthens contractions. According to a BMJ Open study (2021), a relative excess of estrogen can increase pain perception by 30% compared with balanced hormone production.

As women approach perimenopause (average ages 45–55), around 60% report more irregular and more painful cycles (Menopause, 2022). Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes lead to menorrhagia and stronger cramps, requiring medical reassessment.

Several conditions contribute to increased uterine inflammation and intense cramps: the prevalence of endometriosis is estimated at 10% of women of reproductive age (Lancet, 2018), adenomyosis affects up to 35% of patients undergoing hysterectomy (Hum Reprod, 2017), and fibroids affect more than 50% of women by age 50 (Am J Obstet Gynecol, 2019).

• Endometriosis

  • A chronic disease characterized by the presence of tissue similar to the endometrium outside the uterus (ovaries, fallopian tubes, peritoneum, etc.).
  • It causes persistent local inflammation, responsible for intense pelvic pain, especially during menstruation.
  • It may be accompanied by digestive symptoms, urinary symptoms, and pain during intercourse.
  • It is also associated with fertility difficulties in some cases.
  • It affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, with diagnosis often delayed.

  Adenomyosis

  • It refers to infiltration of the endometrium directly into the uterine muscle (myometrium).
  • It leads to an enlarged uterus that is more sensitive and more contractile.
  • It is responsible for very painful, long, and heavy periods.
  • It can cause a feeling of chronic pelvic heaviness.
  • It is often diagnosed in women between 35 and 50 years old, sometimes alongside other conditions such as endometriosis.

  Uterine fibroids

  • These are benign tumors of the uterine muscle (myomas), and they are very common.
  • Their impact depends on their size, number, and location.
  • They can cause heavy periods (menorrhagia), pelvic pain, and more intense cramps.
  • They are sometimes associated with symptoms such as frequent urination or abdominal discomfort.
  • They affect more than 50% of women before age 50, although not all are symptomatic.

Chronic stress increases cortisol secretion, which can disrupt hormonal balance and exacerbate pain (Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2021). A diet rich in saturated fatty acids and insufficient physical activity are also correlated with increased cramps (Journal of Nutrition, 2020).

If the pain prevents you from working or studying —which happens to around 25% of affected women (Journal of Women’s Health, 2019) — or if it is accompanied by fever, very heavy bleeding, nausea/vomiting, or dizziness, a gynecological consultation is recommended without delay. Signs such as pain that gradually increases despite first-line treatments (anti-inflammatories, antispasmodics) should also be considered warning signs.

To relieve menstrual pain globally, it is essential to act on inflammation, stress, and hormonal balance at the same time.

Supporting hormonal balance at the root
Supplements such as [MY] Feminine Balance help act on the root causes of pain. Its formula combines adaptogenic and soothing plants such as ashwagandha, lemon balm, and rosemary, known to support the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and help manage hormonal fluctuations. It is also enriched with vitamins B6, B9, and D, which contribute to hormonal regulation and reducing fatigue.

Reducing stress to lessen the intensity of cramps
Stress plays a key role in making pain worse. [MY] Essentials Serenity acts directly on this axis thanks to a synergy of adaptogenic plants (saffron, griffonia, rhodiola) that support mood and serotonin production, combined with three highly bioavailable forms of magnesium and vitamins B and D. This combination helps manage stress better, which is often involved in the worsening of menstrual pain.

Naturally soothing inflammation
In addition, some simple habits remain effective:

• Herbal teas made with chamomile, ginger, or yarrow
• A diet rich in omega-3s

Releasing muscle tension

• Applying heat (hot water bottle at 40–45 °C) to relax the uterine muscle
• Gentle activities (yoga, walking, stretching) to improve circulation

Acting on the nervous system

• Breathing exercises, meditation, sophrology
  → by reducing stress, the intensity of pain often decreases as well