Patient's question:
Menstrual pain, online doctors said it is related to endocrine factors. The abdominal pain during the menstrual period is related to the increase of progesterone in the luteal phase. Please ask: What is luteal phase progesterone? Is it usually that progesterone in the luteal phase changes only after marriage?Doctor's answer:
The luteal phase refers to the period from ovulation to the day before menstruation. During this time, the ovaries are influenced by luteinizing hormone and secrete progesterone to maintain the thickened endometrium, facilitating the implantation of a fertilized egg. If implantation does not occur, the endometrium will break down, and the menstrual cycle will end with menstruation.The 15th to 28th day of the menstrual cycle generally lasts 14 days, during which the ovarian follicles mature and ovulate, gradually forming the corpus luteum, known as the (secretory phase). Wishing you good health!!
Suggestions for Preventing and Alleviating Menstrual Pain:
1. Balanced Diet
While a healthy diet cannot eliminate menstrual pain, it can significantly improve overall well-being. Avoid overly sweet or salty processed foods, as they can cause bloating and sluggishness. Instead, eat more vegetables, fruits, chicken, and fish, and opt for small, frequent meals.
2. Mineral Supplements
Calcium, potassium, and magnesium can help alleviate menstrual pain. Studies show that women who take calcium experience less pain than those who don’t. Magnesium is also important because it helps the body absorb calcium efficiently. Increase your intake of calcium and magnesium before and during menstruation.
3. Avoid Caffeine
Caffeine in coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate can cause nervousness and worsen discomfort during menstruation. It’s best to avoid caffeine. Additionally, the fat in coffee may irritate the intestines.
4. Limit Alcohol
If you tend to experience bloating during menstruation, alcohol can exacerbate the issue. Avoid alcohol altogether. If you must drink, limit yourself to 1–2 glasses.
5. Avoid Diuretics
Many women believe diuretics can reduce menstrual bloating, but Dr. Lack advises against this method. Diuretics can also expel essential minerals along with water. Dr. Lack suggests reducing salt and alcohol intake, which can cause water retention.
6. Stay Warm
Keeping your body warm improves blood circulation and relaxes muscles, especially in the pelvic area, which may be spasming or congested. Drink hot herbal tea or warm lemon juice. You can also place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen for several minutes.
7. Take Mineral Baths
Add 1 cup of sea salt and 1 cup of baking soda to a warm bath. Soaking for 20 minutes can help relax muscles and ease menstrual pain.
8. Exercise
Walking or engaging in moderate exercise, especially before menstruation, can make your period more comfortable.
9. Practice Yoga
Yoga can also help alleviate pain. For example:
- Kneel and sit on your heels.
- Place your forehead on the ground and extend your arms straight by your sides.
- Hold this pose until you feel discomfort.
10. Take Pain Relievers
Aspirin and acetaminophen can relieve menstrual pain. However, more effective over-the-counter medications include Advil, Haltra, Medipre, and Nupri, which contain ibuprofen to inhibit prostaglandin activity. Take 1 tablet with milk or food when pain begins to avoid stomach irritation, and continue until the pain subsides.