What to do if you have severe menstrual cramps on the first day
Dec 16, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
"Auntie" usually refers to menstruation. In general, severe pain during the first day of menstruation may be caused by elevated prostaglandin levels, abdominal cold exposure, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, or other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then alleviate symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general treatment, medication, surgery, or other appropriate methods.
"Auntie" usually refers to menstruation. In general, severe pain during the first day of menstruation may be caused by elevated prostaglandin levels, abdominal chilling, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, and other related factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and then alleviate symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, surgical interventions, etc. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Elevated prostaglandin levels: During the menstrual cycle, when the endometrium sheds, the body releases large amounts of prostaglandins to promote uterine contractions and expel the endometrial lining. Excessive prostaglandins can cause strong uterine muscle contractions, reducing blood flow to the uterus and causing pain. At this time, applying heat to the lower abdomen as directed by a physician can help relax the uterine muscles and alleviate pain.
2. Abdominal exposure to cold: If the abdomen is exposed to cold air during this period, it may easily cause spasms in the smooth muscles of the intestines, resulting in abdominal pain. It is important to add clothing promptly for warmth, and applying a hot water bag to the affected area may also help relieve discomfort.
3. Endometriosis: This refers to the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or within the pelvic cavity. During menstruation, these displaced tissues also bleed, causing inflammation and pain, which may be accompanied by painful intercourse, painful bowel movements, and menstrual irregularities. Medications such as norethisterone enanthate capsules, norethindrone tablets, or dydrogesterone tablets may be used as directed by a physician for treatment.
4. Adenomyosis: Adenomyosis is a condition in which endometrial glands and stroma invade the muscular layer of the uterus, forming either diffuse or localized lesions. This can lead to an enlarged uterus and increased endometrial surface area, thereby affecting the uterus's ability to contract and stop bleeding, causing dysmenorrhea. Symptoms may include menstrual irregularities, prolonged menstruation, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Patients may follow their physician's advice to use medications such as danazol capsules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or combined norethindrone tablets to improve symptoms.
5. Uterine fibroids: The presence of uterine fibroids increases the size of the uterus, changes its shape, and affects normal uterine contractions, leading to pain. Symptoms may include changes in the menstrual cycle, frequent urination, constipation, etc. It is recommended to follow medical advice for myomectomy, which involves removing the fibroids to help alleviate pain symptoms.
During menstruation, it is important to rest adequately and avoid strenuous physical activity. Additionally, avoiding excessive fatigue will contribute more effectively to bodily recovery.
