When women express that they feel like they’re on the brink of death during their periods, it turns out there’s a legitimate reason behind it. Recently, John Thompson, a medical professional and professor of reproductive health at University College London, made headlines by stating that menstrual cramps can be “almost as painful as a heart attack.” Well, thanks for the validation, but we already knew that.
It’s bewildering that it took a man to voice this comparison for it to gain traction. As a teenager, I faced countless dismissive remarks from gym teachers during “that time of the month.” I often hesitated to speak up about my discomfort, especially since I also deal with PCOS, which makes my period pains particularly intense. In fact, during my last experience, I couldn’t even distinguish whether I was experiencing labor pains or just severe cramps, as the sensations were eerily similar.
Women on Twitter have been quick to share their frustrations and witty comebacks regarding this revelation. Ask any woman who has had to excuse herself from work or school due to crippling cramps, and she’ll likely recount the elaborate excuses she concocted just to get permission to leave. But now, thanks to a male authority figure, we can feel more justified in expressing our pain.
Pain is subjective, but it’s safe to say that menstrual discomfort is truly unbearable. Compounding issues like endometriosis, fibroids, and other menstrual disorders make it even more challenging. It’s honestly a miracle that women manage to keep it together each month.
So yes, we are well aware of how debilitating period pain can be. We really didn’t need someone to explain it to us.
For more on women’s health, check out this excellent resource on infertility from the CDC. And if you’re interested in exploring home insemination options, you might want to read about our Impregnator at home insemination kit. For those considering at-home methods, Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kit is also an authority on the topic.
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