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The Role of Prostaglandins

Published in Menstrual Leg Pain 2 mins read

Why Do Women's Legs Hurt During Their Period?

Leg pain during menstruation is a common experience for many women. While mild discomfort is often considered normal, more severe pain warrants medical attention. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances produced by the body. During menstruation, they are released in higher quantities to help shed the uterine lining. However, these prostaglandins can also cause muscle contractions in the uterus and, importantly, affect muscles elsewhere in the body, including the legs. This leads to cramps and pain that can radiate into the legs. [1, 5, 7]

Endometriosis: A Potential Contributor

Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, is another significant cause of leg pain during periods. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes, causing inflammation and pain that can extend to the legs. The pain often occurs on the same side as the affected ovary, due to shared nerves between the ovaries and legs. [2, 6, 9, 10] The endometriosis tissue bleeds with hormone changes, mirroring the menstrual cycle. [6]

Other Contributing Factors

Beyond prostaglandins and endometriosis, other factors can contribute to leg pain during menstruation:

  • Dehydration: Adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, including managing period pain.
  • Nutrient deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can exacerbate period symptoms.
  • Underlying hormonal imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations beyond the normal menstrual cycle can also play a role.
  • Sciatic nerve involvement: In cases of endometriosis, the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, may be affected leading to leg pain. [9]

Understanding the Severity

Mild leg pain during your period is often considered normal and a common PMS symptom, related to the uterine muscle contractions. [3, 4] However, severe or persistent leg pain warrants a visit to a healthcare professional.