Is it normal to have painful periods?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 23, 2024
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Dysmenorrhea is generally abnormal. Under normal circumstances, if menstruation involves ovulation, there may be slight discomfort in the lower abdomen during menstruation, which is considered normal. If dysmenorrhea is present and tends to worsen over time, this condition usually indicates the possibility of endometriosis. In such cases, it is essential to visit a hospital for a color ultrasound and a CA125 blood test to confirm if the pain is caused by endometriosis, and treatment should be based on the diagnostic results. Furthermore, if dysmenorrhea is caused by a cold uterus, symptoms might include pain accompanied by a cold sensation in the lower abdomen and cold extremities. In this case, it is typically necessary to take medicine that warms the meridians, dispels cold, and alleviates pain in the uterus. If dysmenorrhea is due to qi stagnation and blood stasis, one can take medicine that promotes blood circulation, removes blood stasis, and relieves pain in the meridians. Therefore, dysmenorrhea is not normal.

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Written by Xia Min
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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How to regulate menstrual pain caused by a cold uterus?

For menstrual pain due to a cold uterus, the commonly used gynecological formula "Wen Jing Tang" is typically selected. Wen Jing Tang is a standard formula for regulating menstruation and is generally used for cold uterus and painful menstruation due to a deficiency-cold in the Ren and Chong meridians with blood stasis. Its main ingredients include Evodia, Ophiopogon, Cinnamon Twig, Angelica, Chuanxiong, Peony, Moutan Bark, Donkey-hide Gelatin, Ginseng, Licorice, Pinellia, and Ginger. If there is severe cold pain in the lower abdomen, Moutan Bark and Ophiopogon are removed and Artemisia leaves are added, or Cinnamon is used instead of Cinnamon Twig to enhance the effect of dispelling cold and relieving pain. If there is abdominal distension, Cyperus and Lindera are added.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I do if I have severe menstrual cramps?

In clinical practice, dysmenorrhea can be divided into primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea. If the patient has primary dysmenorrhea, there are no specific effective treatment plans available clinically. It is recommended that the patient take oral painkillers to alleviate the symptoms of dysmenorrhea. If it is secondary dysmenorrhea, the patient needs to immediately undergo gynecological ultrasound and examinations at a local hospital to determine the cause of the dysmenorrhea. Once the cause is identified, an effective treatment plan can be developed based on the cause. Once the cause is addressed, the symptoms of dysmenorrhea will naturally be alleviated.

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Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Why does it not hurt when lying down during menstrual cramps?

Dysmenorrhea is generally caused by a cold uterus or catching a cold, which can be alleviated by lying down to press and shape the abdomen, thus reducing the pain. During menstruation, it is important to rest more and avoid vigorous activities, getting cold, and consuming raw, cold, or spicy foods which are irritating. Do not drink cold water, but use a hot water bottle to apply heat to the abdomen. One can seek treatment in hospitals or Traditional Chinese Medicine clinics for a diagnosis to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis through medication. During menstruation, women should not take baths or cold showers as it can easily harm physical and mental health, and it is also important to maintain vaginal cleanliness and hygiene. Additionally, attention should be given to getting more rest and eating nutritious foods.

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Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does it take for ibuprofen to work for menstrual pain?

Dysmenorrhea refers to lower abdominal pain and a sense of heaviness around or during the menstrual period, accompanied by back pain or other discomforts. If dysmenorrhea occurs, taking ibuprofen can relieve the symptoms significantly within about 20 to 30 minutes. Drinking a bowl of hot brown sugar water during menstruation can also promote smoother menstrual flow and relieve pain. During menstruation, it is advisable to eat less spicy and stimulating food, as well as fewer cold fruits, vegetables, etc., and to maintain appropriate rest. Consume more warm foods and supplement with high-protein, high-calorie diets.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is the cause of dysmenorrhea with scanty flow?

Dysmenorrhea and scanty menstrual flow are often related to a cold uterus. Therefore, women must be careful not to consume too much cold food, engage in appropriate outdoor activities, improve overall blood circulation, enhance gynecological circulation, and change their physical constitution. However, some people experience dysmenorrhea and reduced menstrual flow due to having undergone an abortion, which causes damage to the endometrium. Specific treatments are required in those cases, such as hysteroscopy for examination and treatment, and the use of estrogen and various traditional Chinese medicines for treatment and conditioning. It is also necessary to check for other issues like pelvic inflammation, endometriosis, adenomyosis, or cervical adhesions, etc. Identifying the specific cause is essential for targeted treatment.