Q: Is pain in my leg during my period something to be concerned about?
A: Leg pain during menses is certainly not the most common complaint women have, but it has been reported in the medical literature for many years. Sometimes there is no known cause for this. However, a benign condition called endome-triosis can cause this. Endome-triosis is where the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus and onto pelvic organs. It can cause pain, and this pain can be "referred" to the leg(s). Endometriosis can infiltrate nerves that feed the legs, and this may contribute to the pain. The fact this occurs at predictable times means this is almost certainly benign and not due to a tumor or something that could harm you. Common treatments that may help with this pain include birth control pills and/or high-dose progesterone pills. If it is limiting your ability to function, then you should consult your obstetrician/gynecologist.
- Dr. Ringland S. Murray, member,
Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
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