What Causes Lower Back Pain in Females?

Understanding Lower Back Pain in Women

Lower back pain can have many causes and affects people of any gender. However, there are several lower back pain-related health issues that women are more susceptible to developing than men. It is mainly linked to factors like the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or endometriosis. Here is a detailed list of all the conditions that cause lower back pain in females:

● Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS is a common condition many women experience before their periods. Lower back pain is one of the most common symptoms of PMS, along with abdominal cramps. This pain occurs due to severe inflammation during menstruation. PMS usually starts a few days before your period and ends within a day or two after.

● Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Another primary cause of lower back pain in females is PMDD. It is a more severe form of PMS. Fewer women experience PMDD than PMS. The symptoms of PMDD can be worse than in PMS and generally begin a week before your period, ending a few days after it starts. You might be at higher risk for PMDD if there is a family history of depression or PMDD.

● Endometriosis

Endometriosis can also cause lower back and pelvic pain. This condition occurs when tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it. This tissue often grows on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining and sometimes around the urinary tract and bowel.

● Dysmenorrhea

Painful periods can also cause lower back and abdominal pain. Dysmenorrhea refers to very painful menstruation. While it is manageable for some, it can be highly severe for others. Pain usually occurs in the lower abdomen, lower back, hips, and legs, lasting 1 to 3 days. The intensity of the pain can, at times, feel dull or sharp.

● Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID refers to an inflammation of reproductive organs. Untreated sexually transmitted diseases can cause infection in the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Fever with lower back pain is one of the primary signs of this condition.

● Pregnancy

Lower back pain is common during pregnancy due to changes in your body, weight gain and hormonal changes that relax your ligaments. Most women suffer from lower back pain between the fifth and seventh months of pregnancy, but it can start earlier, especially if you already have lower back issues. The pain is most often felt below the waist and across the tailbone and may radiate into the legs.

Other Causes of Lower Back Pain

There are additional causes of lower back pain that can affect anyone, regardless of sex. Some common ones include:

● Sciatica

Sciatica is caused by compression or injury of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower spine through the buttocks and down the legs. It creates a burning or shock-like pain that usually extends down one leg. In severe cases, it can also result in leg numbness and weakness.

● Herniated Disc

A herniated disc happens when one of the discs separating your vertebrae gets compressed and bulges, potentially rupturing. It causes pain by pressing on a nerve. A herniated disc can also result from injury and is more likely to occur as you age. The lower back is the most common area for this issue, but it can also occur in your neck.

● Disc Degeneration

As you grow older, the discs in your spine can wear down. This may also happen due to injuries or repetitive motion. Many people experience some degree of disc degeneration after reaching 40. While disc degeneration does not always cause pain, it can be painful to some people. This degeneration is most common in the neck and lower back. The pain, at times, also extends to the buttocks and thighs, showing up intermittently.

The treatment for lower back pain depends on what is causing it. You can often start with home remedies, like hot and cold compressions. Sometimes, getting enough sleep also helps relieve the pain. However, if your pain persists for more than two weeks and gets worse with time, consult with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.