What are the symptoms of uterine spasms?

Generally, uterine spasms refer to discomfort caused by intense contractions of the uterine muscles, with primary symptoms including lower abdominal pain, episodic pain, radiating pain, increased pain during menstruation, and accompanying heaviness or distension sensations. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Lower abdominal pain: Patients mainly experience lower abdominal pain, which can manifest as cramping, distension, or stabbing pain. The severity varies; mild cases may only involve slight discomfort, while severe cases can cause intense, unbearable pain, sometimes forcing patients to curl up to alleviate the discomfort.

2. Episodic pain: The pain often occurs in episodes rather than being continuous. During an episode, the pain suddenly intensifies and may last from several minutes to tens of minutes before subsiding on its own. After an interval, the pain recurs. This episodic nature correlates with the rhythmic contractions of the uterine muscles.

3. Radiating pain: Pain may radiate to surrounding areas, commonly extending to the lumbar-sacral region, perineum, or inner thighs, causing referred pain in these areas. During an episode of uterine spasm, the radiating pain intensifies along with the lower abdominal pain and subsides as the pain eases.

4. Increased pain during menstruation: Uterine spasms are particularly evident during the menstrual period. Pain episodes become more frequent and severe before, during, or immediately after menstruation. This is associated with the heightened sensitivity of the uterine muscles to hormonal changes during menstruation, resulting in stronger contractions. Some patients may experience pain throughout the entire menstrual period.

5. Accompanying sensation of heaviness and distension: During pain episodes, patients often feel a sensation of heaviness and distension in the lower abdomen, as if a heavy object were pressing down. This sensation is related to increased local pressure caused by uterine muscle contractions. It intensifies physical discomfort and may affect normal activities such as standing or walking.

If the above symptoms occur in daily life, they can be relieved by applying heat to the lower abdomen, getting appropriate rest, and avoiding strenuous exercise. Additionally, keeping warm during menstruation and reducing exposure to cold stimuli can help alleviate discomfort caused by uterine spasms.