‘Period pains equivalent to heart attack’: Physician Dr Kunal Sood explains why menstrual pain must be taken seriously

Dr Kunal Sood, a double board-certified physician, stated menstrual pain can be as severe as heart attack pain, citing research from a University College of London professor.

Menstrual pain is due to uterine contractions and is classified as primary (no cause) or secondary dysmenorrhea, with endometriosis as an example of secondary dysmenorrhea.

Endometriosis involves growth of uterine-like cells outside the uterus, causing painful periods, pelvic pain, and fertility issues.

Dr Kunal highlighted a lack of treatment and research for severe menstrual pain, noting that women's pain is often dismissed.

A study found one in four women experience pain severe enough to require medication or cause them to miss social activities.