How to treat membranous dysmenorrhea

Methods for treating membranous dysmenorrhea include lifestyle modifications, pharmacological pain relief, hormonal regulation, TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment, and symptomatic supportive therapy. Treatment plans should be selected based on the severity of symptoms and individual constitution to relieve pain and improve clinical manifestations. If severe pain, abnormal menstrual bleeding, or other discomforts occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended.

1. Lifestyle modifications: Keep warm during menstruation and avoid cold exposure; reduce intake of spicy and cold foods; engage in moderate light exercise to promote menstrual flow and alleviate uterine spasms, thereby helping to relieve dysmenorrhea symptoms.

2. Pharmacological pain relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be taken to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and reduce severe pain caused by uterine contractions. These should be taken at the onset of pain according to recommended dosages and preferably not on an empty stomach.

3. Hormonal regulation: Short-term use of progestin medications can regulate the pattern of endometrial shedding, reduce formation of membrane-like tissue, and alleviate dysmenorrhea. This should be done under medical supervision, with strict adherence to prescribed dosages to avoid self-adjustment.

4. TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment: For patients with qi stagnation and blood stasis, formulas that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis are used; for those with cold-induced blood stasis, warming and cold-dispersing herbs are prescribed. Treatments such as moxibustion or acupuncture may also be combined to regulate qi and blood flow, improve uterine circulation, and reduce residual membrane-like tissue.

5. Symptomatic supportive therapy: For those experiencing nausea and vomiting, antiemetic medications may be added. For poor menstrual outflow, blood-activating and menstruation-regulating Chinese patent medicines may be appropriately used to assist in the smooth expulsion of membrane-like tissue and reduce obstructive pain.

Emotional stability should be maintained during menstruation, avoiding excessive stress that may worsen pain. Adequate rest and sleep are essential, and tight clothing should be avoided to minimize abdominal pressure and support recovery.