Patient's question:
Everyone will have very severe menstrual cramps, which are primary dysmenorrhea, inherited from her mother. She has taken many medications, both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. They were effective when she took them, but the pain returned when she stopped. She is very troubled. Now, she has to take Advil every month to relieve the pain. She doesn't know if there are any other good solutions and really doesn't want to keep taking pain medication, but the pain is unbearable!Past Treatment and Effectiveness:
She has taken both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. They were effective when she took them, but the pain returned when she stopped.
Help Needed:
She doesn't know if there are any other good solutions and really doesn't want to keep taking pain medication, but the pain is unbearable!
Doctor's answer:
1) Oral contraceptives that suppress ovulation can be used to relieve menstrual cramps, with an effectiveness rate of over 90%. They are primarily suitable for patients who require contraception.2) Medications that inhibit uterine contractions can be used, taken continuously for 2-3 days before the onset of menstruation or after the onset of menstrual cramps. Examples include indomethacin suppositories, indomethacin tablets, ibuprofen, ketorolac, mefenamic acid, and meclofenamic acid. The main side effects of these drugs are gastrointestinal reactions and allergic reactions. They are contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal ulcers.
(3) Surgical treatment: Only applicable to patients with intractable menstrual cramps who do not respond to medication.
1) Cervical canal dilation: Suitable for postpartum patients with cervical stenosis. The cervical canal is dilated to sizes 6-8 using dilators to facilitate smooth blood flow.
2) Nerve resection: Laparoscopic sacral anterior nerve resection surgery can be considered for intractable menstrual cramps, with good efficacy, but it carries certain complications.