Finding relief for period pain

Any woman who has experienced period pain knows the devastating impact it can have on day-to-day life. Cramps can be mild, or severe enough to prevent a woman from going to work or school.

Along with pain, many women also experience problems such as heavy periods, ovulation pain, or an irregular cycle.

Causes

Primary dysmenorrhoea

The medical cause for period pain, or dysmenorrhoea, can be “primary” or “secondary.”

Primary dysmenorrhoea means that the uterus is producing too much of the hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which causes the uterus to contract too much during menstruation.¹ This leads to more pain.

Secondary dysmenorrhoea

Secondary dysmenorrhoea means that there is another problem in the reproductive system which, when treated, will help reduce the pain.²

Common secondary causes include endometriosis and fibroids.

Treatments

While some women may need specialist surgery or medication, Chinese medicine treatments can be very effective at relieving pain and stabilising menstrual cycles in most instances, especially cases of primary dysmenorrhoea.³

Acupuncture

The most common treatment at Acuwell for period pain is acupuncture, which is used to relieve tension and blockages around the uterus which can contribute to pain. A sluggish flow of blood and energy and cause discomfort, which is treated when carefully placed acupuncture needles release the blockages.

Fascia release

Another method used is fascia release, which works to increase flexibility in the body’s fascia, or connective tissue. When the fascia surrounding the uterus is too tense, this can lead to increased pain, especially during menstruation when the uterus is swollen. Loosening the connective tissue can be a great contributor to increased comfort in the pelvic area.

Herbal medicine

In certain cases, herbal medicines may be prescribed. These remedies aim to work through blockages and tension deep in the body, which may not respond fully to acupuncture or other treatments.

Herbal medicines can be very useful if prescribed by a fully trained and licensed Chinese medicine practitioner, and do not replace existing medications without the advice of your doctor.

Getting help

If you have been suffering from period pain or other menstrual problems, help is available.

Book an appointment at Acuwell to discuss your symptoms, and find out how Chinese medicine treatments can assist you.

References

1. Coco, A.S. Primary Dysmenorrhea. American Academy of Family Physicians, 1999, 60(2); 489-496. Available at: https://www.aafp.org/afp/1999/0801/p489.html 
2. Menstruation – pain (dysmenorrhoea). (2014). Better Health Channel. Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/menstruation-pain-dysmenorrhoea
3. Zhu, X., Proctor, M., Bensoussan, A., Wu, E., Smith, C.A. Chinese herbal medicine for primary dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2008, Issue 2. Art. No: CD005288. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005288.pub3. Available at: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD005288.pub3/full