Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: I had a Cesarean section 5 years ago to give birth to my daughter. Two years ago, I started experiencing menstrual cramps (I also had them before pregnancy, but they are worse now). Each menstrual period lasts about 10 days, and during the secretory phase of the cycle, I always feel a bad odor. When I went to the hospital for a check-up, the doctor said there was nothing wrong, just that my uterus is retroverted. Please ask if there are any good methods to treat menstrual cramps.Doctor's answer:
Hello, Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that menstrual pain is often caused by poor blood and Qi circulation or Qi and blood deficiency. Clinically, common symptoms include Qi stagnation and blood stasis, cold congelation in the uterus, Qi and blood deficiency, and damp-heat accumulation in the lower abdomen. Dietary therapy can play a good role in prevention and treatment.For menstrual pain patients, it is recommended to follow a light and easily digestible diet 3-5 days before the onset of menstruation. Easily digestible foods should be consumed, and overeating should be avoided, especially cold foods, as they can stimulate uterine and fallopian tube contractions, thereby inducing or worsening menstrual pain. Once menstruation has started, it is even more important to avoid all cold, indigestible, and irritating foods, such as chili peppers, raw scallions, raw garlic, pepper, and strong alcohol. During this period, patients can eat some sour foods, such as pickled vegetables and vinegar, as sour foods can help alleviate pain. Additionally, menstrual pain patients should maintain regular bowel movements before or after menstruation. It is advisable to consume more honey, bananas, celery, sweet potatoes, etc., as constipation can trigger menstrual pain and increase discomfort. Some people believe that drinking a little wine can help improve mood, relieve liver stagnation, and promote Qi and blood flow. Red wine has a pungent and sweet, warm nature. The pungent flavor can dispel and promote, which is beneficial for menstrual pain caused by cold and damp congelation, helping to dispel cold, remove dampness, activate blood circulation, and regulate menstruation. The sweet and moistening properties can nourish and soothe, which is effective for menstrual pain caused by Qi and blood deficiency, helping to warm the Yang, nourish blood, and relieve pain. Menstrual pain patients should have a varied diet and avoid excessive consumption of any single food. It is recommended to frequently eat vegetables and fruits that promote Qi regulation and blood circulation, such as chrysanthemum leaves, orchid roots, coriander, carrots, oranges,, and ginger. People with weak constitutions and Qi and blood deficiency should regularly consume foods that replenish Qi and blood.