How to relieve severe menstrual cramps

Dysmenorrhea can be relieved by applying hot compresses to the abdomen, taking painkillers, drinking ginger tea, moderate exercise, and acupoint massage. Dysmenorrhea is usually caused by excessive secretion of prostaglandins, abnormal uterine contractions, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, mental stress and other factors.

1. Apply heat to the abdomen

Use a hot water bottle or baby warmer to compress the lower abdomen, and control the temperature at 40-50 degrees Celsius for 15-30 minutes each time. Hot compress can promote pelvic blood circulation and relieve uterine smooth muscle spasm. Be careful to avoid scalding your skin, and avoid taking baths in overheated water during menstruation.

2. Take painkillers

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen extended-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, and naproxen sodium tablets can inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. These drugs are suitable for primary dysmenorrhea and should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Avoid taking the drugs on an empty stomach. Use with caution in patients with gastrointestinal ulcers.

3. Drink ginger tea

Take 5-10 grams of fresh ginger slices, boil them, and add brown sugar to taste. The gingerols in ginger tea have anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce the intensity of uterine contractions. Drink 2-3 times a day. Diabetic patients should reduce added sugar. Can be combined with a small amount of cinnamon to enhance the effect.

4. Moderate exercise

On the 2nd to 3rd day of menstruation, you can do low-intensity exercise such as walking and yoga for 20-30 minutes each time. Exercise promotes the secretion of endorphins and reduces pain perception. Avoid strenuous exercise that may lead to increased menstrual flow. Those with a retroverted uterus can try knee-chest lying to relieve discomfort.

5. Acupoint massage

Press Sanyinjiao (3 inches above the tip of the medial malleolus), Guanyuan (3 inches below the navel) and other acupoints, and press each acupoint for 1-2 minutes. Massage can regulate endocrine and relieve pelvic congestion. It is recommended to start daily massage 1 week before menstruation, and cooperate with abdominal breathing for better results.

During menstruation, you should pay attention to keeping your abdomen warm and avoid cold and raw foods and caffeine intake. Drink 1500-2000 ml of warm water every day and choose foods rich in magnesium such as whole grains and dark vegetables. Record the menstrual cycle and pain level. If there is persistent aggravation or non-menstrual pain, organic diseases such as endometriosis need to be investigated promptly. People with long-term dysmenorrhea can use short-acting contraceptive pills to regulate hormone levels under the guidance of a doctor.