How to relieve dysmenorrhea
Disease description:
My dysmenorrhea is particularly severe; applying a hot water bottle doesn't help, but I'm also afraid of taking painkillers due to concerns about potential harm to my body. I would like to know if there are other methods available to relieve menstrual pain and make those days more bearable.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Dysmenorrhea can be managed through lifestyle improvements, dietary adjustments, physical methods, and medication.
Maintaining a regular exercise routine, such as practicing yoga, walking, or engaging in gentle aerobic activities, can promote blood circulation and help alleviate menstrual pain. Additionally, ensuring adequate sleep, reducing stress, and applying a hot water bag to the abdomen can effectively relieve pain. Eating foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as deep-sea fish and flaxseeds, can help reduce inflammation. Increasing dietary fiber intake while avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol, and reducing salt and sugar consumption can also help improve symptoms.
Physical methods such as applying heat, using hot water bags or heat patches on the lower abdomen, can improve local blood circulation, facilitate menstrual blood flow, and reduce pain. Massaging areas such as the lower abdomen, both sides of the lower abdomen, the uterus, and the Sanyinjiao acupoint can also promote blood circulation and relieve dysmenorrhea. When the pain becomes unbearable, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be used under a doctor's guidance. These medications are generally considered safe.
