Patient's question:
Hello! I am 19 years old and have been suffering from menstrual cramps for several years. Every day of my period is extremely painful, and medication only provides temporary relief. Additionally, I experience lower back pain after the period ends, and my face sometimes swells. How can this be treated? Thank you!Doctor's answer:
Hello, during the days before or after menstruation or during the menstrual period, women may experience lower abdominal and lumbosacral pain. In severe cases, the abdominal pain can be intense, accompanied by pale complexion, cold hands and feet, and even fainting. This condition is known as "dysmenorrhea," also referred to as "menstrual pain." Dysmenorrhea typically lasts for several hours or 1–2 days, and the abdominal pain usually subsides after the menstrual flow becomes regular. This condition is more common among young women and is one of the most prevalent gynecological disorders.In traditional Chinese medicine, dysmenorrhea is often believed to be caused by poor blood and qi circulation or qi and blood deficiency. Common clinical manifestations 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 significant role in prevention and treatment.
For women with dysmenorrhea, it is advisable to follow a light and easily digestible diet 3–5 days before the onset of menstruation. They should consume foods that are easy to digest and avoid overeating. In particular, they should avoid cold foods, as these can stimulate uterine and fallopian tube contractions, potentially triggering or worsening dysmenorrhea. Once menstruation begins, it is even more important to avoid all cold, difficult-to-digest, and irritating foods, such as chili peppers, raw scallions, raw garlic, pepper, and strong alcohol. During this period, patients may appropriately consume acidic foods like pickles or vinegar, as acidic foods can help alleviate pain. Additionally, women with dysmenorrhea should maintain regular bowel movements before and after menstruation, as constipation can trigger dysmenorrhea and increase pain. Some people believe that drinking a small amount of red wine during menstruation can help improve mood, relieve liver qi stagnation, and promote smooth qi circulation. Red wine has a pungent and sweet, warm nature—pungency disperses and promotes, making it effective for dysmenorrhea caused by cold and damp congelation, helping to dispel cold and dampness, activate blood flow, and regulate menstruation. Sweetness nourishes and moistens, which can also benefit the condition.