PCOS back pain and PCOS pain in lower abdomen: How to find relief

In a nutshell:

Many women with polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOS) report suffering from PCOS back pain and PCOS pain in the lower abdomen. Though these are not listed as official symptoms of PCOS, they are understood to be ways PCOS impacts the broader health of affected women.

Polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition that impacts how the ovaries work. PCOS symptoms include irregular or missed periods, facial hair, and infertility. This condition is underdiagnosed, and many women only discover they have it when they attend a fertility clinic for help conceiving.

Back pain and lower abdominal pain are not direct symptoms of PCOS, though many women with PCOS complain of these pains. The World Health Organization lists weight gain as a common symptom of PCOS, and this may be a contributing factor when it comes to back pain. Abdominal pain is likely to be related to heavy periods, which can be a symptom of PCOS.

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PCOS back pain

Though many PCOS sufferers complain of back pain, it is not one of the main symptoms associated with the condition. Women with PCOS are more likely to be overweight or obese, putting them at risk of back pain. PCOS sufferers also have an increased risk of osteoarthritis, which can affect the back. While these are not direct symptoms of PCOS, they are strongly associated with the condition.

We know clinical observations of the condition vary from real-life experiences. A 2017 Health and Quality of Life Outcomes study compared patients’ and clinicians’ views of PCOS. The researchers found pain was a common complaint of patients, though clinicians failed to see the importance of this aspect of PCOS, misjudging the impact pain has on the daily lives of their patients.

Can PCOS cause back pain?

The effects of PCOS are far-reaching, but back pain is not listed as one of the top symptoms. However, we know that many women with PCOS suffer from back pain and backaches. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as saying that PCOS causes the pain, though it is likely associated with the condition. Some of the potential causes of PCOS back pain include:

Weight gain

A 2021 study published in Human Reproduction found that women with PCOS had an increased likelihood of weight gain. Fatigue is a common symptom of PCOS and can make it difficult to lose weight. While not all women with PCOS are overweight, women with PCOS have an increased risk of being overweight or obese. Being overweight increases your chances of experiencing back pain.

Osteoarthritis

A 2021 study published in Arthritis Research and Therapy found that women with PCOS had a greater chance of developing osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis can affect the spine, leaving you with back pain.

Diabetes

A 2017 study published in Cureus found a link between diabetes and lower back pain. Diabetes and PCOS are linked. Women with PCOS can have insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. A 2023 study published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice found that women with PCOS were more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes and that this risk was highest for women diagnosed with PCOS at a young age.

Painful periods

When it comes to PCOS lower back pain around the time of menstruation, painful periods are the most likely cause. A common symptom of PCOS is irregular periods. When women with PCOS do have periods, they may be heavy and painful. Some women experience period pain in their backs, and this can be one explanation for back pain in women with PCOS.

PCOS pain in lower abdomen

A 2022 study published in Endocrine Connections states that abdominal pain is a common complaint of women with PCOS. Irregular and heavy periods can cause PCOS pain in the lower abdomen, leaving many women in pain when their period finally arrives.

You may find the over-the-counter pain relief, and a warm compress alleviates your discomfort. If not, however, it’s time to speak to your OBGYN for tailored medical advice.

PCOS abdominal pain and PCOS back pain relief

If you’re suffering from abdominal and back pain, the following tips may help provide relief:

Use a TENS machine

TENS machines (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) are a drug-free pain relief method often used during labor. A TENS machine can help to reduce back pain associated with PCOS. Follow the instruction manual for your TENS machine to ensure safe usage.

Use heat therapy

You can use a hot pack or warm compress to reduce discomfort. Apply a heat pack to the affected area for relief. Heat relaxes muscles, increases blood flow, and helps to relieve pain.

Take over-the-counter pain medications

Speak to your pharmacist to determine which over-the-counter pain relief options are suitable for you. It may be worth speaking to your doctor about how often you need to take medication for this PCOS symptom.

Lifestyle changes to prevent PCOS back pain

Try to maintain a healthy weight

Some women with PCOS gain weight, and this can further exacerbate symptoms. A 2018 research review published in Clinical Spine Surgery found that being overweight and obese are risk factors for lower back pain and that maintaining a healthy weight can prevent lower back pain.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet

A balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and prevent back pain. PCOS is associated with inflammation in the body, which can cause many symptoms.

Get moving

Exercise can help reduce your back pain. It’s important not to push yourself too hard, so start with gentle exercise. A brisk walk, swim, or yoga class is a great place to start. A weightlifting class may help you strengthen your muscles and reduce back pain as you build your strength.

Manage your stress levels

A 2019 study published in Psychological Medicine found that women with PCOS were more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and stress. Mental health issues can take their toll on the body, so you must take steps to protect your mental health. Regular mindfulness practice, daily exercise, and a healthy diet can help you to manage your stress levels.

When to see the doctor about PCOS back pain

If you’re struggling with chronic pain, it’s time to visit your doctor. Your doctor can diagnose your discomfort and develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medication to help manage your aches and pains. A 2021 study published in the European Journal of Pain found that women taking metformin were less likely to report back pain.

Summary

PCOS back and abdominal pain may not be official symptoms of PCOS, but women with PCOS frequently report suffering from aches and pains in these areas. It may be associated with irregular and heavy periods or be a physical side effect of the psychological stresses associated with the condition. Back pain is a known symptom of osteoarthritis and diabetes, both of which are associated with PCOS.

There are lifestyle changes you can make to reduce discomfort and prevent future instances of back pain. If you are overweight, losing weight will reduce the strain on your bones and joints and may reduce your back pain. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress could alleviate discomfort.

If you’re struggling with back pain, it’s time to see your doctor. Explain the impact this symptom has on your life and the steps you have taken to try and manage it. Your doctor will be able to assess the cause of your PCOS pain and recommend a treatment plan to help you manage the pain.