Menstrual cramps occur every month during menstrual period

Dysmenorrhea generally refers to lower abdominal pain that occurs during menstruation, which may be related to factors such as primary dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

1. Primary dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea is usually related to the increased secretion of prostaglandins in the endometrium during menstruation. It usually occurs within 1-2 years after menarche. The symptoms are spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, which may be accompanied by headache, fatigue, etc. The pain usually starts 1-2 days before menstruation and lasts for 2-3 days and gradually relieves. Improvement measures include applying heat to the lower abdomen, moderate exercise such as yoga, and avoiding raw and cold foods. When the pain is severe, you can use ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, ketoprofen enteric-coated tablets or acetaminophen tablets as directed by your doctor.

2. Endometriosis

Dysmenorrhea caused by endometriosis manifests as progressively worsening lower abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as dyspareunia and painful defecation. Endometrial tissue ectopically grows to the ovaries, fallopian tubes and other parts of the body, and local bleeding and inflammatory reactions occur every menstrual period. The diagnosis requires gynecological examination combined with ultrasound or laparoscopy. Medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets, dienogest tablets and other drugs can be used for treatment. Laparoscopic surgery is required when necessary.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pain caused by pelvic inflammatory disease is often accompanied by a feeling of distension in the lower abdomen, abnormal leucorrhea or fever. Pathogen infection causes inflammation of the fallopian tubes, ovaries and other reproductive organs. In the acute phase, ceftriaxone sodium for injection combined with metronidazole sodium chloride injection is needed for anti-infective treatment. Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease can be treated with Chinese patent medicines such as Fuke Qianjin Tablets.

4. Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is more common in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Dysmenorrhea manifests as gradually worsening severe pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation and increased menstrual flow. Endometrial glands invade the myometrium, causing the uterus to enlarge uniformly, and B-ultrasound examination shows uneven echo of the myometrium. Mild cases can be relieved by taking naproxen sodium tablets, but in severe cases, placement of a levonorgestrel intrauterine system or hysterectomy should be considered.

5. Mental and psychological factors

Long-term anxiety and tension may aggravate dysmenorrhea symptoms through neuroendocrine regulation. This type of dysmenorrhea is mostly characterized by dull pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by backache, breast swelling and pain, etc. It is recommended to adjust through regular work and rest, meditation and relaxation. If necessary, anti-anxiety drugs such as fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules can be used under the guidance of a psychologist.

Patients with dysmenorrhea should pay attention to keeping warm during menstruation and avoid strenuous exercise and heavy physical labor. In the diet, increase the intake of salmon, walnuts and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and reduce the intake of caffeine and alcohol. It is recommended to record the menstrual cycle and pain characteristics. If the pain continues to worsen or affects the quality of life, seek medical treatment in time to rule out organic diseases. Regular annual gynecological examinations can help detect pelvic lesions early.