A Lagos-based Consultant Gynecologist, Dr Ademola Ayodele, has called for increased education on menstrual pain management “to save women and girls from dying in silence”.

Ayodele, the Medical Director of a fertility centre, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday.

He said that not all menstrual pains and cramps are normal, adding that some might be associated with endometriosis, a condition in which cells similar to the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, grow outside the uterus.

Ayodele explained that many women and young girls who experience painful menstruation usually generalise it to be normal pain, noting, however, that “not all menstrual pains and cramps should be considered normal.”

He said that some menstrual pains might be due to infection, fibroid or other diseases.

The gynecologist, therefore, advised young girls and women to seek medical attention.

According to him, parents, caregivers and teachers should desist from generalising menstrual pains as normal and encourage their wards/daughters to seek medical intervention.

He said that “for a normal and natural menstrual pain, it starts like a day before menstruation and stops once the menstruation begins or with the intake of anti-inflammatory drugs.

“But for a menstrual pain caused by endometriosis condition due to infection, fibroid or other diseases, the pain lasts all through the menstruation and cannot be stopped with the intake of anti-inflammatory drugs.

“Endometriosis is the leading cause of depression among women because many people with the condition are dying in silence and depression due to ignorance and lack of information.

“That underscores the need for awareness because people need to be educated so that they can take the right decision.”