What to Do for Menstrual Cramps: Quick Relief

Dysmenorrhea—painful menstruation—is one of the most common gynecological symptoms. It is primarily caused by prostaglandins synthesized in the endometrium, which trigger intense uterine contractions. Dysmenorrhea has numerous potential causes and commonly manifests as lower abdominal pain and a sensation of heaviness or pressure, often accompanied by low back pain or other discomforts, significantly impairing daily life. So, how can dysmenorrhea be quickly alleviated? Below, we address this question.

How to Quickly Alleviate Dysmenorrhea

1. Massage and Moxibustion

Rub both palms together until warm, then massage the lower abdomen below the navel in a clockwise direction. Alternatively, apply acupressure to the Zusanli (ST36) and Sanyinjiao (SP6) points for one minute each. Additionally, moxibustion may be performed at these same acupoints (e.g., Sanyinjiao and Zusanli): hold a moxa stick approximately 3 cm above the skin surface until local warmth is felt without burning pain; treat each point for 10–15 minutes, continuing until mild erythema appears on the skin. Furthermore, avoid staying up late and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

2. Abdominal Warmth

When experiencing dysmenorrhea, maintaining warmth—especially during menstruation—is essential. Avoid washing your hair or feet with cold water; if possible, refrain from washing your hair altogether. Keeping the body warm promotes improved blood circulation, particularly in the pelvic region where spasms and congestion occur. Applying a hot water bottle to the abdomen or performing moxibustion over the lower abdomen is highly effective for relieving menstrual pain. Additionally, dietary adjustments can help alleviate symptoms.

3. Symptom-Based Pharmacotherapy

Over-the-counter analgesics may be used to relieve dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea is classified into primary (functional) and secondary (organic) types. Primary dysmenorrhea typically responds well to simple analgesics such as aspirin or acetaminophen (paracetamol). However, long-term use of these medications is not recommended due to potential adverse effects on health. Secondary dysmenorrhea arises from underlying pathological conditions—such as endometriosis or cervical stenosis—and requires targeted treatment of the root cause. Under medical supervision, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal contraceptives may be prescribed for management.

The above outlines practical approaches for rapidly alleviating dysmenorrhea. We hope this information proves helpful to you.