Laura Menstrual pain that worsens after giving birth can be alleviated through methods such as heat application, dietary adjustments, moderate exercise, medication, and psychological support. Dysmenorrhea after childbirth may be related to factors such as incomplete uterine involution, endocrine disorders, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and mental stress.
1. Heat application
Applying heat to the lower abdomen can help relieve spasmodic contractions of the uterus and promote local blood circulation. Use a hot water bottle or a heating pad set at 40-45°C, and apply it to the lower abdomen through a towel for 15-20 minutes, repeating this process 2-3 times daily. Be careful not to scald your skin, and avoid using temperatures that are too hot during your menstrual period. Heat application is effective for physiological dysmenorrhea; however, its use should be discontinued if fever occurs concurrently.
2. Adjust your diet
Increase the intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, as well as nuts and dark green vegetables that are good sources of magnesium. At the same time, reduce the consumption of foods that are high in salt and fat. Drinking ginger and brown sugar water daily can help warm the meridians and dispel cold, while preventing cold drinks from irritating the stomach and intestines. During breastfeeding, it is important to ensure an adequate intake of high-quality protein and iron to prevent the worsening of anemia and menstrual discomfort.
3. Moderate exercise
Choose low-intensity activities such as yoga or walking to help reduce pain by releasing endorphins. Kegel exercises can strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and improve blood circulation in the pelvis. Avoid strenuous exercise that may lead to fatigue. Keep warm before and after exercising, and pause if you experience excessive menstrual bleeding.
4. Medication treatment
Ibuprofen sustained-release capsules can inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins and are suitable for the treatment of moderate to severe pain； Drug tablets containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol are used to regulate hormone levels and should be taken only after being evaluated by a physician ； Cinnamon Twig and Poria Capsules promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, making them effective for dysmenorrhea caused by qi stagnation and blood stasis. Medication during breastfeeding must be taken strictly according to a doctor's instructions; drugs containing aspirin should be avoided.
5. Psychological counseling
Postpartum anxiety and the stress of parenting may exacerbate sensitivity to pain, but these emotions can be alleviated through mindfulness meditation and supportive communication. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps establish strategies for pain management, and it is important to seek help from family members in taking care of the baby when sleep is insufficient. Persistent low mood requires screening for postpartum depression.
It is recommended to keep a record of the duration of menstrual pain, accompanying symptoms, and methods that provide relief, in order to avoid over-reliance on pain medications. Wearing loose clothing can help reduce pressure on the abdomen, and keeping the perineal area clean during menstruation is important. If there is excessive menstrual bleeding, fever, or persistent pain for more than 3 days, it is necessary to rule out organic diseases such as adenomyosis and seek medical attention at a gynecology clinic promptly for an ultrasound and hormone level tests. During breastfeeding, treatment should prioritize the safety of both mother and baby; it is advisable to avoid self-administering traditional Chinese medicine preparations.
