I didn’t have dysmenorrhea before. What should I do now that I have it?

Dysmenorrhea that did not occur before may be related to hormonal changes, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, primary dysmenorrhea, etc. It can be relieved by adjusting lifestyle, hot compress analgesia, taking drugs, traditional Chinese medicine conditioning, surgical treatment, etc.

1. Hormone changes

The gradual maturation of ovarian function after puberty or hormonal fluctuations caused by aging may stimulate increased secretion of prostaglandins and cause dysmenorrhea. You can try to avoid strenuous exercise during menstruation and drink ginger tea to help relieve uterine contractions. If the pain persists, you can use ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, Yuanhu analgesic tablets and other drugs as directed by your doctor.

2. Endometriosis

Retrograde menstrual blood implantation forms ectopic lesions, which cause pelvic pain due to bleeding during the menstrual cycle. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as painful sexual intercourse and painful defecation. Laparoscopy is required to confirm the diagnosis, and dienogest tablets and Guizhi Fuling capsules can be used to control the development of lesions in mild cases.

3. Pelvic inflammation

Ascending infection by pathogens causes adhesions in the fallopian tubes and ovaries, and congestion during menstruation aggravates pain. It is often accompanied by abnormal secretions and fever, and requires antibiotics such as cefixime dispersible tablets combined with metronidazole tablets. Bed rest is recommended in the acute stage.

4. Uterine fibroids

Intramural fibroids compress the uterine cavity or submucosal fibroids become necrotic and fall off, resulting in increased menstrual flow and colic. Ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis. Laparoscopic myomectomy should be considered for fibroids larger than 5 cm. For small fibroids, mifepristone tablets can be used to reduce smooth muscle.

5. Primary dysmenorrhea

There is no organic disease but the uterus is hypersensitive and contracts, which is common 1-3 years after menarche. The pain is concentrated in the 2 days before menstruation. It can be relieved by applying hot compress to the lower abdomen or taking ketoprofen gel patch. In severe cases, oral short-acting contraceptive pills are needed to adjust the cycle.

It is recommended to record the degree and duration of menstrual cycle pain, avoid eating cold and irritating foods during menstruation, and supplement with appropriate amounts of vitamin B1 and magnesium to help relax smooth muscles. When pain affects daily life or is accompanied by fever and vomiting, a gynecologist should be consulted promptly to rule out organic diseases. Ultrasound and six hormone examinations can assist in diagnosis. The use of all drugs requires the guidance of a professional physician.