What should I do if my stomach hurts during menstruation?

Particularly painful abdominal pain during menstruation can be relieved by applying hot compresses to the abdomen, drinking an appropriate amount of brown sugar ginger tea, using ibuprofen sustained-release capsules as directed by your doctor, maintaining adequate rest, and exercising moderately. Dysmenorrhea is usually caused by excessive secretion of prostaglandins, abnormal uterine contractions, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, mental stress and other reasons.

1. Apply heat to the abdomen

Applying a hot water bottle or baby warm compress to the lower abdomen can help relax the uterine muscles and relieve cramping pain. The temperature should be controlled at 40-50 degrees Celsius and last for 15-30 minutes each time to avoid scalding the skin. This method has an obvious effect on primary dysmenorrhea and can be combined with deep breathing to further relax.

2. Brown sugar ginger tea

The shogaol in ginger has anti-inflammatory effects, and brown sugar can replenish energy. The two work together to promote pelvic blood circulation. It is recommended to drink 1-2 cups daily starting 3 days before menstruation. It is better to boil fresh ginger slices. Diabetic patients should control the amount of brown sugar or consult a doctor.

3. Ibuprofen sustained-release capsules

This drug reduces pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthase and is suitable for moderate to severe dysmenorrhea. Common dosage forms include ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, ibuprofen granules, etc., which need to be used under the guidance of a doctor. It is prohibited for patients with gastrointestinal ulcers and alcohol consumption is prohibited while taking the medicine.

4. Get enough rest

Guaranteeing 7-9 hours of sleep during menstruation can reduce stress hormone levels and reduce abnormal uterine contractions. Lying on your side with your knees bent can reduce abdominal tension and use a memory foam lumbar cushion to support your lumbar spine. Avoid staying up late and doing high-intensity mental work.

5. Moderate exercise

After the third day of menstruation, you can perform low-intensity exercises such as yoga cat pose and walking to promote endorphin secretion and relieve pain. Avoid abdominal crunches, squats and other movements that increase abdominal pressure, and limit exercise duration to 30 minutes. Patients with endometriosis need to consult their doctor to develop a personalized plan.

In daily life, you should pay attention to keeping warm during menstruation, avoid raw or cold food, and wear loose clothes to reduce abdominal compression. Record the degree and duration of pain. If symptoms such as continued aggravation, non-menstrual pain or accompanying fever occur, seek medical attention promptly to rule out organic diseases. People with long-term dysmenorrhea can consider traditional Chinese medicine conditioning, such as moxibustion at Guanyuan point, taking Wenjing decoction, etc., but they must be carried out under the guidance of a professional physician.