Most people start noticing physical and emotional changes about a week before their period starts. For some, bloating, cramping, and pimples are signs that Aunt Flo is coming to town. But another hallmark symptom of being on your period is pain. While it’s common to experience pain in your stomach, pelvic region, and back, some individuals also find themselves grappling with aching legs.
“Period pain is caused by many factors, and everyone experiences it differently,” says Neha Thawani, MD, an OB/GYN resident physician at Stanford Medicine. “Some people experience leg aches and pain during their period.”
A little mild leg pain during your period is normal. However, in some cases, the pain can be indicative of an underlying condition. Here are seven reasons why you might be experiencing leg pain during your menstrual cycle.
1. Higher levels of prostaglandins
Your period leg pain might be linked to prostaglandins, chemical compounds in your body that play a variety of roles, including maintaining blood clotting and regulating blood pressure. During your period, your body releases these chemicals to instigate uterine contractions, facilitating the shedding of the uterine lining, which leads to bleeding. However, prostaglandins also trigger an inflammatory response, contributing to symptoms such as fever, chills, and pain, as Dr. Thawani explains.
While these compounds are typically localized in the lower abdomen, “individuals sometimes experience radiating pain,” which can manifest in the legs due to the uterus’s proximity to these areas.
2. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
A common trio of symptoms including mood swings, food cravings, and acne often characterizes premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, PMS is also frequently associated with leg pain.
Affecting approximately three out of every four menstruating individuals, PMS presents a range of physical and emotional symptoms. While it is often linked to mood disturbances, joint and muscle pain is a prevalent complaint, as noted by the Mayo Clinic.
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3. Hormonal changes in menopause
Are you noticing achy legs during perimenopause? There could be a connection. Dr. Thawani notes, “While rare, hormonal shifts associated with menopause can cause leg pain.” During this stage, estrogen levels fluctuate, ultimately declining but occasionally spiking, which can lead to the secretion of prostaglandins that heighten inflammation and cause pain radiating to the legs.
4. Dehydration
Dehydration is a proven culprit for leg cramps. Hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle can impact hydration levels as can a significant loss of blood, particularly if your period tends towards heavier flows.
A lack of hydration can disrupt electrolyte balance and restrict blood flow to your leg muscles as explained by AARP, leading to cramps, pain, and muscle weakness.
5. Anemia
Characterized by a deficiency in healthy red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport, anemia can arise from heavy menstruation leading to iron deficiency. Symptoms often include extreme fatigue and muscle pain encompassing the legs. Anemia may also trigger restless legs syndrome, marked by an overwhelming urge to move your legs, alongside sharp pains and tingling, caused by insufficient iron impacting your nervous system.
6. Endometriosis
“Living with endometriosis can certainly lead to leg pain during your menstrual cycle,” Dr. Thawani emphasizes. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, which can result in significant pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and fatigue.
This tissue reacts to hormone variations in much the same way as your uterine lining, causing increased prostaglandin release and subsequent inflammation, which, in turn, can amplify leg pain.
7. Joint pain
Individuals with joint conditions like arthritis may experience exacerbated symptoms during menstruation. The relationship between arthritis and the menstrual cycle remains somewhat enigmatic; however, hormonal fluctuations are suspected to elevate inflammation in the joints, possibly intensifying pain interpretation as levels of estrogen decrease.
When is leg pain serious?
While mild leg discomfort during your period may not warrant concern, persistent or severe pain that disrupts daily activities requires a consultation with your healthcare provider. Ignoring excessive pain may lead to further complications. It is crucial to communicate symptoms to healthcare professionals, who can diagnose underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatments.
How to relieve leg pain on your period
Fortunately, period-related leg pain can often be alleviated with home remedies. Consider the following strategies:
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can combat inflammation tied to prostaglandins. For optimum relief, take these medications about 24 hours prior to the start of your period, advises Dr. Thawani.
- Stay hydrated: Consuming at least six to eight glasses of water daily—and more if you perspire—is vital for preventing dehydration-related leg cramps. Monitoring the color of your urine can also indicate hydration levels, as a clear color generally suggests proper hydration.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine: Both can act as diuretics, prompting increased urination and potential dehydration unless compensated for with increased water intake, as noted by the Mayo Clinic.
- Give yourself a massage: Taking the time to massage cramping muscles can provide significant relief, whether using your hands or a foam roller.
- Move your body: Incorporate gentle movements such as stretching and walking, which may help relieve muscle cramps.
- Use a heat or ice pack: Utilizing heating pads or ice packs can alleviate pain. Heating pads are particularly beneficial for muscle stiffness, whereas ice packs are better for acute pain situations, according to HSS.
When to see a healthcare provider
Generally, period-related leg pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications and self-care measures. If pain persists and hampers daily activities, reaching out to your healthcare provider is advisable. Remember, menstrual-related symptoms should not hinder your life. “If you find yourself calling off work due to period pain,” Dr. Thawani recommends seeking assistance. “You shouldn’t have to endure in silence.”
