Elena Casado, anesthesiologist, on menstrual pain: "The increase in saturated fats and sugars triggers prostaglandins."

Menstrual pain remains one of the biggest taboos in women's health , despite affecting millions of women worldwide. According to anesthesiologist Elena Casado, more than 70% of women suffer from it to a greater or lesser extent, and in many cases it becomes a chronic problem that affects their daily lives. "I'm already used to living with pain," she says, reflecting the reality of many patients who must learn to cope with it in their daily lives.

Casado, who shares health information on social media, clearly and relatably explains what's behind the pain that plagues so many women every month. "Menstrual pain is primarily caused by prostaglandins," she points out. These substances cause the uterus to contract more intensely to expel the endometrium, a natural part of the cycle, but in excess, they cause physical suffering. "What prostaglandins do is cause the uterus to contract more intensely so we expel parts of our own endometrium," she summarizes.

The contractions caused by prostaglandin surges don't just translate into abdominal pain. They can cause digestive discomfort, lower back pain , and even sensations that can be confused with other illnesses. "I swear, yesterday I thought I had sciatica, but no: I got my period today," Casado comments ironically.

Adding to this discomfort is a lack of social understanding. Phrases like "how exaggerated" or "it's not that bad" continue to be frequently heard, despite medical studies confirming the intensity of these pains. Casado emphasizes that this is a real health problem that deserves to be addressed with solutions beyond the routine use of anti-inflammatory drugs.

The anesthesiologist also insists that there are scientifically proven methods for reducing menstrual pain without relying solely on medication. The first recommendation is adapted physical activity. "It's important that we learn to adapt our physical exercise to the time of our menstrual cycle," she explains. Exercise, even in its gentlest form, generates endorphins that help relieve pain and improve emotional well-being.

Casado adds that including adapted exercise routines in daily life is essential, especially for women with chronic pain. "I always recommend my patients include an adapted exercise routine in their daily routine," she notes.

Another key aspect is diet. "Increasing saturated fats and sugars in the diet increases and triggers prostaglandins," warns the specialist. This often overlooked fact demonstrates that diet can directly influence the intensity of symptoms. Reducing these elements in the diet can significantly improve pain control.

The third pillar the anesthesiologist points out is the use of local heat. "We have a lack of blood flow in the area, and heat will help dilate the blood vessels and increase blood flow, thereby reducing pain," she explains. A simple and accessible recommendation that has proven effective in numerous clinical studies.

Casado also mentions the role of TENS, an electrostimulation device that helps "trick" the body into feeling less intense pain. This increasingly used tool is presented as a practical and complementary option to other methods.