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It is a well-established fact that women suffer from painful conditions more often than men and the prevalence of health conditions such as low back pain, musculoskeletal disorders and headaches is much higher in women. In fact, more than 45% of women experience chronic pain compared to only 31% of men.
This increased burden of pain is shaped by the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors. Additionally, women suffer pain related to the female reproductive system, yet they often face barriers to effective pain management solutions as their pain is often dismissed as psychological, delaying its appropriate management.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Nikhil Bangale, Head of Medical Affairs, Bayer Consumer Health, shared, “From menstrual cramps to migraines, women experience a number of painful conditions that disrupt their daily lives to a great extent. Can disrupt. Reproductive hormones such as estrogen play an important role in controlling sensitivity to pain and relief. Women should be made aware of self-care solutions to manage their pain. But it is equally important to educate them about responsible use so that they know when to seek medical help.
Here are three common pains that women struggle with and effective ways to manage them –
1. Period pain
Menstrual cramps are often considered a regular part of the menstrual cycle. This perception, coupled with the stigma associated with periods and the expectation to keep them hidden, normalizes period pain. According to India’s largest menstrual health study, more than 83% of women experience painful menstruation and for one in ten, the pain is severe enough to interfere with their daily activities for several days every month. .
Dr N Shailaja, MS, MRCOG, a gynecologist from Bangalore, stressed, “Young girls should be taught that there is no need to suffer in silence when it comes to menstrual pain. If the pain is caused by contractions of the uterine muscles, it can be managed with rest and over-the-counter pain management solutions. Plant-based solutions have minimal side effects and are effective. However, if the pain is intense, it may indicate underlying conditions like fibroids or endometriosis, which require immediate medical intervention.
2. Musculoskeletal (MSK) Pain
Musculoskeletal pain, including neck, back and joints (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), is more common and severe in women. Factors such as genetic predisposition, hormonal fluctuations, physical differences, and psychological distress contribute to this high prevalence.
Socio-cultural expectations often burden women with household chores and caregiving duties, leading to long-term physical stress. Additionally, calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, often caused by pregnancy and breastfeeding, can make the pain worse.
To effectively manage MSK pain, health experts emphasize that women should focus on structured and personalized physical activity to improve muscular endurance, optimize mental well-being, and ensure adequate sleep. . Additionally, nutritional supplements such as calcium, vitamin D and magnesium may help improve bone health and reduce pain.
Incorporating these lifestyle changes along with nutritional support can significantly reduce MSK pain and improve women’s overall quality of life.
3. Headache
According to reports, women are three times more likely to experience frequent and disabling headaches than men. This is mainly caused by hormonal fluctuations resulting from menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, as well as lifestyle stress.
The New Saridon survey found that 93% of people recognize the role of stress in their headaches, with women most affected. Financial constraints, work pressure and health problems also contribute to their stress.
Headaches can significantly reduce quality of life, causing an average of 4.3% of productive time lost each month, but they can be managed with lifestyle modifications and dietary adjustments – such as increased intake of magnesium, riboflavin and vitamin C. Increasing intake of rich dietary sources along with supplements. In antioxidants like turmeric. One can also opt for over-the-counter pain relievers for immediate relief.
Frequent or severe headaches may be a sign of migraine, which requires consultation with health professionals for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Women face a wide range of pain-related challenges throughout their lives, from menstrual cramps and headaches to other chronic conditions. With the right knowledge, resources, and self-care practices, women can effectively manage their pain and live healthier, more productive lives.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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