Patient's question:
I have been experiencing menstrual cramps since my first period. My mom previously bought me some traditional Chinese medicine, but it didn't help. Sometimes the pain is so severe that I can't straighten up my back. I've also tried drinking ginger and brown sugar water, but it had no effect.What kind of help do I need: Are there any small tricks to relieve menstrual cramps?
Doctor's answer:
There are many causes of dysmenorrhea, including inflammation and lesions of the reproductive organs, as well as psychological and neurological factors. Some women are overly sensitive to pain, and there is a genetic component—daughters experiencing dysmenorrhea often have a family history of it from their mothers. Other factors include endocrine issues.Seek medical attention for examination to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Three to five days before menstruation, it is advisable to follow a light and easily digestible diet. Consume foods that are easy to digest and avoid overeating. In particular, avoid cold and raw foods, as they can stimulate uterine and fallopian tube contractions, potentially triggering or worsening dysmenorrhea. Once menstruation begins, it is even more important to avoid all cold, indigestible, and irritating foods.
During dysmenorrhea, resting in bed, staying warm, and applying heat to the abdomen can help alleviate the pain. Generally, dysmenorrhea is manageable and does not affect daily life. However, if the pain persists and is severe, it may indicate a possible reproductive system disorder.