Lower Back Pain and Its Connection to Menstrual Discomfort

Lower back pain

Hello, doctor.
Today is the third day of my menstrual period, and I already have severe menstrual cramps.
Suddenly, I am experiencing significant pain in my lower left back (below the bone).
Yesterday, I wore tight pants, and now I have some irritation in the genital area that itches and feels slightly painful when it comes into contact with water.
I would like to ask if there is a connection between the back pain and the infection? Is it necessary to seek medical attention for the back pain? Thank you.

Zi Han, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/12

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Today is the third day of my menstrual period, and I am experiencing severe menstrual cramps along with sudden pain in my lower left back (below the bone).
Yesterday, I wore tight pants, and now I have some irritation in the genital area that itches and slightly stings when it comes into contact with water.
I would like to ask the doctor if there is a connection between the back pain and the infection.
Answer: No connection.
2.
Is there a need to seek medical attention for the back pain? Answer: Yes.

Reply Date: 2017/02/12

More Info

Lower back pain, particularly during menstruation, can be a common experience for many women. The connection between menstrual discomfort and lower back pain is multifaceted and can be attributed to several physiological and anatomical factors.

During menstruation, the body undergoes hormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. These hormones can lead to increased sensitivity to pain and may also cause the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic region to relax. As a result, some women may experience cramping and discomfort not only in the abdomen but also in the lower back. This is often due to the contraction of the uterus, which can radiate pain to the lower back area.

In your case, the sudden onset of pain in the left lower back, especially if it coincides with your menstrual cycle, could be related to the menstrual cramps you are experiencing. However, it is essential to consider other factors that might contribute to your discomfort. For instance, wearing tight clothing can restrict blood flow and may lead to muscle strain or discomfort in the lower back. Additionally, if you are experiencing any form of infection, such as a yeast infection or urinary tract infection (UTI), this could also manifest as lower back pain, particularly if the infection is affecting the kidneys or bladder.

The itching and mild stinging sensation you mentioned could indicate a possible infection, which might be contributing to your overall discomfort. Infections in the pelvic region can sometimes lead to referred pain in the lower back. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, unusual discharge, or significant changes in your menstrual cycle, it would be advisable to seek medical attention.

In terms of whether you should see a doctor, if the pain is severe, persistent, or if you have concerns about a potential infection, it is always better to err on the side of caution. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly imaging studies if deemed necessary. They can also conduct tests to rule out infections and provide appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while lower back pain during menstruation can be common and often benign, it is essential to consider the broader context of your symptoms. If you suspect an infection or if your pain is significant, seeking medical advice would be prudent. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing any concerns early can prevent more significant issues down the line.

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