Is it normal to get chest pains during my period?

Headaches, cramps, and lethargy are just some of the things a number of women experience before or during their monthly period. But what about chest pain?

In an episode of PinoyMD, OB-Gynecologist Dr. Raul Quillamor addressed a viewer's concern and identified the problem as "angina pectoris."

"During menstruation, may mga babae na nakakaramdam talaga ng physical pain at isa na nga dito 'yong tinatawag na angina pectoris," he explained.

The physical discomfort or pain is caused by poor blood flow to the heart.

The American Heart Association further explains that angina pectoris "occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get as much blood as it needs" and it may be brought on by "physical activity or strong emotions."

WebMD, meanwhile, confirmed that some women may have chest pains "at times of the month when less estrogen is circulating in their bloodstreams" e.g. during or immediately after their period.

If you're experiencing this, Quillamor recommends visiting a cardiologist or internist. "Ang angina pectoris puwede ring magiging sanhi 'yan later on ng heart attack," he said. — Aya Tantiangco/LA, GMA News