Brain structure altered by period pain – scientists
Period pain can alter the structure of the brain, research has shown.
Scientists who studied a group of women sufferers found evidence of dramatic reshaping, with some brain areas shrinking and others increasing in size.
Previous research had suggested menstrual cramps can trigger abnormal brain metabolism. The new findings indicate the changes are long lasting, since they are seen even between painful episodes.
The affected parts of the brain consisted of "grey matter" which are involved in the transmission and control of pain, as well as emotional responses.