What causes stomach pain during menstruation?

Apr 02, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
"Auntie" may refer to menstruation, and "stomach pain" may mean abdominal pain. Generally, menstrual-related abdominal pain could be caused by primary dysmenorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, or other factors. In daily life, it is recommended to apply heat to the lower abdomen or use a heating pad, avoid cold drinks and spicy foods, and drink more warm water, which can help alleviate the pain.

  "Auntie" may refer to menstruation, and stomach pain may mean abdominal pain. Generally speaking, abdominal pain during menstruation may be caused by primary dysmenorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

  1. Primary Dysmenorrhea: Some women experience primary dysmenorrhea during their menstrual period, mainly due to elevated levels of prostaglandins in the body, which cause excessive contraction of the uterine smooth muscle and vasoconstriction. This may lead to ischemia and hypoxia in the uterus, resulting in pain. This is considered a relatively normal physiological phenomenon and usually does not require special treatment.

  2. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This may be associated with unhygienic sexual practices or infections following intrauterine procedures. During menstruation, pelvic congestion and decreased immunity may exacerbate the inflammatory response, leading to lower abdominal pain. Symptoms may also include fever and increased vaginal discharge. Women are advised to take medications such as Gongxuening Capsules, Gynecological Qianjin Tablets, or Gongyanping Tablets as prescribed by a doctor.

  3. Uterine Fibroids: These may be related to unhealthy lifestyle habits or hormonal changes. When fibroids are large or located close to the endometrium, they can interfere with uterine contraction and hemostasis, leading to increased menstrual bleeding and pain. Women are advised to seek medical care and consider myomectomy for treatment.

  4. Adenomyosis: This may be associated with multiple pregnancies or induced abortions. The condition often causes uniform enlargement and hardening of the uterus, leading to secondary dysmenorrhea and increased menstrual flow. Women are advised to strictly follow medical advice and use medications such as Danazol Capsules, Gestrinone Capsules, or Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules to relieve symptoms.

  5. Endometriosis: This may be linked to genetic factors or low immunity. Ectopic endometrial tissue responds to hormonal fluctuations during menstruation by bleeding; however, since the blood cannot be expelled, it forms localized lesions, causing pain and inflammatory reactions. Women are advised to use medications such as Danazol Capsules, Gestrinone Capsules, or Norethisterone Tablets under a doctor's supervision to improve symptoms.

  In daily life, applying heat to the lower abdomen or using heating pads is recommended. Avoid cold drinks and spicy foods, and drink plenty of warm water, which may help alleviate pain.