Helps with pain during menstruation. How to get rid of pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation without pills at home with the help of exercises and herbs? Sedatives as a means of getting rid of pain

Menstruation is a monthly physiological process, indicating the health of the organs of the reproductive system and the woman's ability to procreate. Based on statistics published by the International Health Association, more than 65% of the fairer sex experience pain, cramps and colic of varying intensity during critical days. But are they physiological? Is it necessary to resort to the help of analgesics in the fight against pain during PMS? What painkillers for menstruation are most effective? Is it possible the negative impact of analgesics on the body in the process of systematic use from cycle to cycle? Is there an alternative to the usual painkillers? When should you use pain relievers? Let's figure this out together.

Causes of pain during menstruation

In order to choose the right analgesic, it is necessary to understand the "etymology" of pain. Discomfort not long before menstruation and in the first days of menstruation is a physiological phenomenon. Most girls of reproductive age note that the lower abdomen not only hurts, but also “seizes” with a spasm, after which “aching” discomfort appears in the lumbar region.

About 20% of the women surveyed experienced a change in stool, severe dizziness and nausea on the eve of critical days. Experts say that a slight malaise is quite acceptable and is an individual reaction of the body to the “cleansing” of the uterus, but a severe pain attack, aggravated by additional symptoms, is evidence of a pathology. This deviation is called dysmenorrhea.

Gynecologists say that pathology can be both primary and secondary. Consider the most common causes that can provoke the development of dysmenorrhea.

Primary dysmenorrhea

Hormonal disbalance

Pathological disorders in the work of the thyroid gland or adrenal glands negatively affect the functioning of the organs of the female reproductive system. Doctors are convinced that these disorders can provoke pain, cramps and colic, affecting the lower abdomen and lower back during PMS. The cause of the pain syndrome is a sharp change in the hormonal background of a woman. In such a case, antispasmodics used during menstruation will give a short-term, barely perceptible effect. To eliminate painful symptoms, it is better to resort to complex treatment, including hormone therapy.

Intrauterine device

The contraceptive makes its own adjustments to the work of the reproductive system. Painful sensations in the first few months after the start of use lie in the plane of the physiological norm and are associated with the adaptation of the body to new "conditions". If a woman notes uncharacteristic for three or more menstrual cycles, you should immediately contact a specialist. Pain syndrome may indicate the onset of pathological processes in the uterus associated with the incompatibility of the woman's body and the intrauterine device. Women who experienced pain and spasms that arose during the use of this method of contraception claim that the use of antispasmodics was ineffective.

Abortions and purges

Among the consequences of surgical interventions, there are often painful sensations that appear a few days before the onset of menstruation. A similar phenomenon is not a symptom of pathology and is stopped with the help of broad-spectrum analgesics: No-shpa, Analgin, Nise, Nurofen and Aspirin. But you should not abuse painkillers. The constant use of such painkillers during menstruation, especially in adolescence, is fraught with malfunctions in the liver and kidneys.

Juvenile symptoms

The phenomenon is common among adolescent girls and is not a manifestation of pathological processes. Pain and cramps in the abdomen and lower back are due to the formation of the menstrual cycle and, in most cases, disappear in the process of growing up. Experts recommend, with severe pain, to resort to the help of antispasmodic drugs no more than once a day. The frequency is due not only to the possibility of side effects, but also to the weakening of the effect of analgesic components on the body. Gynecologists recommend using tablets such as Novigan, Spazgan or Ketanol as an anesthetic. These pain relievers are designed to help during severe spasms without harm to the stomach, liver and kidneys.

Period after childbirth

The postpartum period is characterized by the re-establishment of the menstrual cycle. Many of the women noted the appearance of pain a few days before critical days and, directly, during menstruation. Doctors do not recommend the use of painkillers for women who are breastfeeding. It is worth noting that the fair sex, who "met" the return of menstruation during the period of breastfeeding, noted that lactation is a natural pain reliever.

Pathologies in the location of the organs of the reproductive system

Congenital disorders in the location of the uterus can provoke sharp pains before or during menstruation. Pills for painful periods should be picked up by a gynecologist observing a woman, but, in most cases, this problem is solved surgically.

Sexually transmitted diseases

One of the main signs of many sexually transmitted diseases is the appearance of severe, uncharacteristic pain during PMS. You can fix the problem only with the help of complex therapy aimed at eliminating the disease. Many specialists, in conjunction with narrow-spectrum drugs, prescribe Ibuprofen in such cases to help patients. This analgesic drug is not the main one and eliminates not the cause of pain, but its antispasmodic manifestation. But self-treatment is not recommended!

Genetics

Many of those who experienced the presence of pain in the abdomen and back before menstruation claimed that many relatives had similar symptoms. In this case, pills for pain during menstruation are one of the best ways to solve the problem. It is worth noting that experts do not recommend exceeding the daily dosage indicated in the instructions for the drug.

Lack of vitamins or minerals

A lack of calcium or magnesium in a woman's body can provoke the occurrence of unpleasant sensations that accompany menstruation. Painkillers with a similar history will only serve as a good addition in conjunction with taking vitamins.

Secondary dysmenorrhea

Violation is a symptom of pathological processes that have affected the work of the organs of the reproductive system. Experts say that secondary dysmenorrhea is characterized by the intensity and strength of the pain syndrome. The pain appears against the background of a change in color, smell and consistency of discharge during menstruation. It is worth noting that the characteristic signs of secondary dysmenorrhea are nausea, vomiting, dizziness, spontaneous increasing pain and a change in the nature of the stool during menstruation.

Gynecologists are sure that in this case, exclusively analgesic during menstruation will bring little effect. Secondary dysmenorrhea requires complex treatment. Pathology is observed against the background of gynecological diseases or dysfunction of the genital organs. Accordingly, you can get rid of pain only as a result of a comprehensive fight against the disease.

Having studied the causes of pain, it is worth paying attention to effective means of getting rid of it.

Types of pills for pain during menstruation

Painkillers used during and before menstruation differ not only in price, but also in the strength of the impact, and therefore in direction. Moderately effective analgesics are the most common. Such tablets are recommended even in adolescence, because the negative impact on the body of anesthetic capsules is minimal. But even these drugs are strictly forbidden to be taken more often than 3 times in 24 hours. For adolescents, the daily dose is limited to one tablet. Let's look at the most common moderate-impact analgesics:

ibuprofen;
Diclofenac;
Ketoprofen;
Indomethacin;
Piroxicam;
Analgin;
Tamipul;
Nise;
No-Shpa;
Nurofen.

It is worth noting that you do not need to wait for instant relief from these pills. The active ingredients begin to act no earlier than 15 minutes after taking the drug, and some pills for abdominal pain during menstruation, and at all, have a cumulative effect.

Many experts believe that the action of regular Paracetamol is similar to many painkillers that eliminate discomfort during PMS.

The best result is achieved as a result of a course of taking tablets, which, in turn, should not exceed 5 days.

Paracetamol tablets in the event of pain during menstruation can be taken only 3 times, one piece per day.

The strength of the effect of pain pills during menstruation directly depends on the chemical composition of the drugs. Painkillers in the form of capsules are divided into groups.

Antispasmodics

The principle of action of painkillers in the form of tablets is based on the elimination of spasm and pain. The speed of exposure directly depends on the "generation" to which the chemical composition of the capsules belongs. The best painkillers for menstruation in this category are:

Papaverine

The scheme of taking painkillers is described in detail in the instructions. In most cases, it is recommended to drink 1 tablet 3 times a day. The active components of this powerful drug contribute to the elimination of tone in muscle tissue. The pain does not go away completely after taking the pill, but becomes barely noticeable, strong cramps disappear.

Buscopan

The scheme of taking tablets: in most cases, the therapist prescribes to drink one or two tablets 5 times a day. The complex of components of the analgesic drug was created specifically to relieve tone and eliminate colic and cramps that appear in the lower abdomen. Buscopan is recognized as one of the safest antispasmodic drugs for menstruation, because the tablets are absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract in a minimal amount, which means that the harmful effect on the digestive system is minimal.

Drotaverine

The regimen is identical to Buscopan. Due to the expanding effect on the blood vessels, the tablets are recommended for relieving not only menstrual pain, but also for eliminating discomfort in the postpartum period and during pregnancy. The drug has the longest effect and is able to anesthetize in the shortest possible time.

No-shpa

One of the most favorite pills for women from pain during menstruation. According to the chemical composition, the drug is an analogue of Drotaverine, but there are no side effects during administration. Experts say that Noshpa can be consumed up to 6 tablets per day.

Analgesics

They differ in the ability to instantly relieve pain. Let's look at a list of the most popular painkillers for menstruation from a number of analgesics. These include:

Spazmalgin;
Novalgin;
Baralgin;
Analgin;
Minalgin;
Peretin.

Due to the complex effect on all body systems, doctors do not recommend taking analgesic drugs more often than once a day.

Analgesics can also help in the fight against aching and pulling premenstrual pain, as well as eliminate inflammation in the muscles.

Non-steroidal pills for pain during PMS

These painkillers not only relieve pain, but also have anti-inflammatory effects. Most often, experts prescribe non-steroidal tablets in combination with antispasmodics. These tablets from menstrual pain differ not only in efficiency, but also in an affordable, low price. Consider the most common nonsteroidal drugs:

Aspirin

Tablets have a cumulative property and smoothly relieve pain. Therapists prescribe 2 tablets 4 times a day. On average, the price category of a medicine varies from 80 r.

Paracetamol

ibuprofen

The frequency of taking tablets should not exceed 6 times a day. The cost of the drug is 15 rubles. for 20 tablets.

Ketolong

Based on the feedback and comments of women who resorted to the help of these funds, the drugs, although inexpensive, do an excellent job with both pain and cramps during menstruation.

In addition to pills, women use painkillers, menstrual pain patches, and rectal suppositories to relieve pain and spasms. Let's consider some of them.

Painkillers during menstruation

The action of analgesic suppositories during menstruation is aimed at the immediate removal of pain. Unlike tablets, the active substances of this dosage form instantly enter the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

Experts note that the use of analgesic suppositories rectally or vaginally reduces the risk of developing allergic reactions and completely eliminates the negative effects of analgesics on the liver and kidneys.

Many women prefer suppositories due to the absence of the unpleasant, bitter aftertaste inherent in pills. One of the advantages of this form is the possibility of independent procedure.

Anesthetic injections are similar in terms of the rate at which active ingredients enter the bloodstream and the safety of use, but, unlike suppositories, they require outside help, and therefore are not so common.

The most popular among analgesic suppositories for rectal or vaginal exposure are:

Paracetamol;
Papaverine;
Naproxen;
Indomethacin;
Ketoprofen;
Tylenol.

It is worth noting that anesthetic suppositories used during critical days have a number of contraindications. Before use, you should consult with your doctor!

Pain relief patches during menstruation

Patches for menstrual pain belong to the category of homeopathic remedies for the external spectrum of effects. The principle of operation is based on a warming effect that reduces the strength of pain and spasm. Thanks to the plant extracts included in the composition, these products have a relaxing effect on the muscle muscles, enveloping the problem area with a “warm plume”. In fact, the tool is an improved analogue of a heating pad that can be used anytime and anywhere. In most cases, women use patches for pain in conjunction with taking analgesics.
It is worth noting that doctors do not recommend exceeding the norms of continuous exposure to a warming patch. Based on the instructions for use, this time interval should not exceed 8 hours.

The most popular among the fair sex is Frauplast thermoplaster. The price of a homeopathic remedy will be about 120 rubles. Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

Pain relievers during menstruation

The advantage of using analgesics in the form of injections is the rapid effect of active ingredients on pain and the absence of a negative effect on internal organs. As practice shows, this "ambulance" requires outside help, and therefore cannot be used at any time and in any place.

In most cases, an injection is given as a last resort, if the pain is not stopped either with the help of tablets, or with the help of suppositories, or with the help of decoctions or patches. Experts say that in case of strong, repeated spasms during menstruation, it is necessary to inject:

Analgin;
Baralgin;
Lidocaine;
Novocain;
Diclofenac;
Mydocalma;
Ketonala;
ibuprofen.

Self-administration of this dosage form or arbitrary dose adjustment is not allowed! Anesthetic injections, regardless of the "power" of the active components, "should be placed under the strict supervision of the attending physician!

Traditional medicine against menstrual pain

Many women in the fight against pain during menstruation resort to the help of traditional medicine. The most effective way to relieve pain and improve general condition is to help:

nettle decoction;
chamomile decoction;
decoction of the boron uterus;
warming and soothing herbal teas.

It is not worth abusing herbal preparations if a woman has an individual intolerance to herbal components.

List of the most popular pills for menstrual pain

Studying ways to deal with menstrual pain, we can conclude that the most popular means of dealing with the disease are antispasmodic and analgesic capsules. You can buy medicines at any pharmacy. A prescription for these products is not required.

List of popular pills for menstrual pain:

Papaverine;
Nurofen;
Ketonal;
Tempalgin;
Ketanov;
Solpadein;
Spazmalgon;
Buscopan;
Combispasm;
Novalgin;
Menalgin;
Nise;
No-Shpa.

Remember that the combination of taking painkillers in the form of tablets, injections, suppositories or patches and drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited!

About 30-40% of women worldwide suffer from pain during menstruation. There are many ways to reduce pain during menstruation, but they are not universal. Many only temporarily block the symptoms. Therefore, you must first understand the cause of the torment from menstruation, and only then select the treatment.

Painkillers for menstruation

Painkillers help women with a low pain threshold or sudden, severe discomfort during menstruation. But such drugs are useless if the root cause is hidden behind the following disorders:

hormonal disbalance;
inflammation in the pelvic organs;
insufficiency of the luteal phase;
endometriosis;
anatomical changes in the uterus;
other gynecological diseases.

Therefore, before taking any drugs, you need to undergo an examination. In the absence of sexual health problems, the doctor may prescribe:

antispasmodics;
analgesics;
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

These drugs should be selected by a specialist, taking into account contraindications and examination results.

Antispasmodics during menstruation

When choosing an effective remedy, how to relieve pain during menstruation, often attention is paid to antispasmodics. They have the following effect:

expansion of the pelvic vessels;
improved blood flow to the uterus;
getting rid of spasms.

Can buy:

No-shpu;
Drotaverine;
Papaverine;
Spazgan;
Spazmalgon;
Trigan.

These drugs should not be taken against the background of heavy monthly bleeding.

Medicines are great for young girls and women who experience minor discomfort and pain of mild to moderate intensity.

Analgesics for pain

Severe menstrual pains are well eliminated by means with analgesic action. They not only quickly remove discomfort, but also lower the high temperature, and also relieve irritability, fatigue, and drowsiness.

Classify analgesics based on the active substance:

metamizole derivatives (Baralgin, Analgin);
paracetamol (Efferalgan, Paracetamol, Panadol);
combined analgesics (Novalgin, Theraflu).

After consultation, the gynecologist may advise combining these drugs with antispasmodics. They also have a number of contraindications, so without a specialist you can not start drinking pills, choosing the dose yourself. Discomfort will decrease, but there is a high chance of side effects.

NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs eliminate the high content of prostaglandins. They are one of the causes of severe menstrual pain.

Doctors prescribe:

Aspirin;
ibuprofen;
Diclofenac;

It must be remembered that NSAIDs are the most harmful to the body. And any painkillers should not be taken too often. If they do not alleviate the condition, it is worth being examined in a medical institution and tested.

Hormonal drugs for painful periods

It is during menstruation that pain often indicates a hormonal imbalance in the body. The first symptoms are pain in the abdomen and lower back, as well as minor delays and copious discharge.

Contraceptives help to solve the problem:

Triziston;
Diana-35;
Jeanine;
Antiovin;
Yarina;
Marvelon.

The specialist will prescribe the most suitable option for oral contraceptives to eliminate pain.

It is important to understand that these pills are taken in courses, so the problem will not disappear if you take one pill only to reduce pain.

Sedatives as a means of getting rid of pain

Asking how to relieve pain during menstruation, women either immediately think about strong medicines, or turn to traditional medicine. But often discomfort is caused by banal emotional overstrain or stress. Therefore, it is necessary to choose something that calms the nerves.

After the normalization of the nervous system, discomfort during menstruation should disappear, as well as increase efficiency, fatigue and drowsiness will go away.

Among the most popular drugs with a sedative effect are:

Valerian;
Trioxazine;
Relanium.

Traditional medicine to ease the course of critical days

To reduce unpleasant symptoms against the background of critical days, it is permissible to use various medicinal herbs. But folk remedies for pain during menstruation, experts advise taking a week before the onset of monthly bleeding.

Elecampane root

The plant not only helps to cope with the delay, because it contains essential oils that have an analgesic effect.

You need to take 1 tbsp. l. crushed root and add 0.5 liters of boiled water. Infuse in a water bath for 15-20 minutes, then another half an hour in heat. Strained broth should be drunk 3 times a day, one tbsp. l.

Herbal tea

Reduces the intensity of cramps and helps to calm down during menstruation.

Ingredients (1:1):

chamomile flowers;
melissa leaves.

For 40 g of the mixture you need 1 liter of boiling water. The infusion time is from 40 to 60 minutes. Ready tea is taken before meals, 100 ml. It can be used both before menstruation and during their time.

sour

To prepare a medicinal decoction, you need to take 2 tbsp. l. herbs and 0.5 liters of boiling water. Let the product brew for 60 minutes and strain. Drink half a glass 3 times a day.

The course of treatment is two weeks, repeated three times with intervals of 14 days.

Systematic pain

With constant painful menstruation, an infusion based on leaves will help:

eucalyptus;
eleutherococcus.

It is necessary to mix the ingredients in a ratio of 2: 1 and pour boiling water (1 cup). After half an hour, the infusion is ready for use before meals, 2 tbsp. l. three times per day.

dandelion roots

If during menstruation the lower abdomen hurts, then at home it does not hurt to make the following infusion:

1 tsp boil dandelion roots in a glass of water over low heat for 5 minutes, then leave for several hours and strain.

Ready infusion is taken twice a day for half a cup.

It is important to remember that before using any folk method, it is important to make sure that there is no allergy to the components of the decoctions.

Additional techniques

Having tried many pills or tinctures, women do not stop looking for what else helps from. Soreness at the beginning of the cycle will help to completely remove or weaken the following:

diet change;
exercises;
massage procedures;
yoga (find out which ones are allowed);
walks in the open air;
giving up bad habits (alcohol, cigarettes).

Food

A proper pre-period diet is one of the best ways to relieve period pain without pills. It is useful to refuse some products by adding certain vitamins and trace elements to the diet. After following the recommendations, not only the pain will disappear, but the problem with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea will also be solved.

Painful menstrual flow is very often associated with a lack of a certain substance in the body. Eliminate vitamin E deficiency will help:

fish;
vegetable oil;
nuts;
seafood;
various seeds (poppy, flax, pumpkin, sunflower).

With a lack of iron in the diet should include:

red fish;
liver (calf, ram);
red caviar;
pomegranate juice;
prunes;
buckwheat;
apples;
raisin.

Do not forget about foods rich in magnesium and calcium:

wheat groats, bananas;
eggs, cottage cheese, soy.

But you need to refuse the following:

salty and fatty foods;
smoked meats;
various pickles;
conservation;
fast food;
coffee and strong tea.

Such nutrition helps to eliminate fluid retention in the body, an extra burden on the stomach. A sufficient amount of useful trace elements will have a good effect on hormonal balance, eliminating abdominal pain and backache.

Massage

How to quickly relieve severe pain during menstruation, a massage therapist can tell. Reduction of discomfort can occur after the following procedures:

electrophoresis;
reflexology;
acupressure;
can therapy;
stone massage.

The specialist will work on a specific muscle or area of the body, providing relaxation for the whole body. You can also reduce pain in the spa. But to deal with discomfort in this way during menstruation, you need with the help of a professional.

At home, you can do your own passive massage. To do this, you need to buy a Kuznetsov applicator. It is enough to lie on your back, placing the applicator under your lower back, but for no more than 15-20 minutes.

Thermal compresses

For unbearable pain, some women use a heating pad or a regular hot water bottle:

You need to calm down and take a supine position.
Apply a heating pad to your stomach and press your knees to your chest.
Maintain this position for no more than 20 minutes.

After the procedure, blood flow increases and the number of contractions (spasms) decreases.

It is important not to use the heating pad for more than the allotted time. Otherwise, strong discharge and heavy bleeding are not ruled out.

Physical exercise

In the comments on various sites, it is clear that athletic women have practically no problems with menstruation. Everyone else does not have to run for several hours a day. Regular walking in the fresh air or gymnastics in the morning and evening will help calm the nerves and reduce pain. Slow regular squats can get rid of sharp pain during menstruation.

The following exercises for pain during menstruation will also come in handy:

In the supine position, rest your feet against the wall, forming a right angle. Stay in this position for 5-7 minutes.
To ease the pain, you should kneel and elbows, fix the position and lower your head between your hands for a few minutes.
Lying on your stomach, rest your hands on the floor and pull the top of the body back. You can go back down after the onset of mild back pain.
In the prone position, bend your knees, then raising, then lowering your stomach. Five or ten repetitions will suffice.

It is important not to resort to physical activity on the first day of menstruation, as well as with heavy bleeding.

Yoga

Yoga during menstruation is different from the usual program. You can not resort to inverted asanas to prevent the outflow of blood from the pelvis. You can not squeeze the stomach or overstrain the muscles of the press.

The following exercises demonstrate how to get rid of abdominal pain during menstruation:

Vajrasana. Sitting on your knees, put your buttocks on your heels, your back is straight. You can simply put your hands on your knees or put your middle and thumb together. It is important to maintain the position for 10 respiratory cycles.
Twisting. First, lie on your back with your arms outstretched. Further, each leg in turn, bent at the knee, transfer to the other side, pressing it to the floor as much as possible. Hold the position for up to 10 breaths and change legs.

Such asanas should improve the general condition. With the help of such exercises, you can also get rid of pain not only in the lower abdomen, but also in the lumbar region.

When to Seek Medical Care

It is not possible to stop pain at home in all cases. You should not wait until it gets worse, therefore, with the following symptoms, you should go to the hospital:

there is no relief for more than two days;
it is not possible to stop the pain with antispasmodics or analgesics;
discomfort is accompanied by copious discharge with clots;
severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea on all days of menstruation;
loss of strength, dizziness or loss of consciousness.

With age, the female body is more prone to various gynecological diseases. And pain during menstruation can be a signal of the onset of the development of pathology. The sooner the examination, the more likely it is to establish a cycle and prevent serious violations.

The materials of the article demonstrate many safe methods of how to relieve pain during menstruation at home. But to relieve discomfort on critical days, the right lifestyle, a balanced diet and systematic observation by a doctor are best suited. After everything else, the symptoms only weaken, returning again at the beginning of the next cycle.

Many girls and girls have the problem of pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation.

There is even a medical term for painful menstruation - dysmenorrhea (algodysmenorrhea).

Although critical days are a natural part of a woman's life, normally severe pain and significant discomfort should not occur.

No need to put up with these symptoms, menstrual cramps can be effectively treated. With very painful periods, deterioration of health, it is better to seek help from a gynecologist.

Why does pain occur?

Every month, the surface layer of the uterine mucosa grows, and then is rejected again, resulting in. The cycles repeat until the girl is pregnant.

To quickly get rid of part of the endometrium, the muscles of the uterus contract and relax in an irregular rhythm. This helps the mucous lining the inside of the uterus to detach and exit the body along with the blood through the cervical canal and vagina.

Muscle contractions are usually imperceptible and cause mild discomfort, but sometimes they are also felt by the girl as painful spasms, acute cramping pain.

They can occur in the first two days of menstruation and are localized in the lower abdomen, back (lower back and sacrum), perineum and legs.

For some women, these sensations are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, as well as headaches and general discomfort. In girls with abundant discharge, with a large number of clots, the pain syndrome, as a rule, is more pronounced.

2. Causes and risk factors

Doctors distinguish between two types of pain and call them primary and secondary dysmenorrhea (algodysmenorrhea).

If the pain during menstruation is caused only by the contraction of the muscles of the uterus, it is called primary dysmenorrhea.

It is still unknown why some women experience this soreness, but it is probably due to the production of too many prostaglandins or some special hypersensitivity to them.

Prostaglandins are biologically active substances. They affect the perception of pain and cause the muscular layer of the uterus to contract.

Some evidence suggests that smoking increases the risk of menstrual cramps.
Painful periods that occur against the background of other diseases are called secondary dysmenorrhea.

Benign (non-cancerous) neoplasms in the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, often cause secondary dysmenorrhea.

Endometriosis can also cause severe period pain. With this pathology, the endometrium grows not only in the body of the uterus, but also in another place, for example, in the abdominal cavity.

Sometimes contraceptives (IUDs: intrauterine devices) used for birth control also provoke pain, in which case they are removed.

3. How often is algomenorrhea observed?

Menstrual pain is very common: most girls and young women will complain of pain at some point in their lives.

In 10 out of 100, the pain is so severe that they cannot perform their normal activities for one to three days a month.

Moderate to severe primary dysmenorrhea is more common in girls under 20 years of age.

Pain usually becomes less severe and disappears completely within a few years after menarche (the first period in a teenage girl). For many women, dysmenorrhea disappears after the birth of their first child.

Secondary algomenorrhea often occurs after a young woman has regular menstruation.

She may also complain of soreness at other times of the cycle, and other symptoms are often observed (blood smearing, menstrual irregularities, etc.). The lack of effect of analgesics most often indicates a secondary nature of the pathology.

To determine the cause in this case, a gynecological examination, ultrasound of the pelvic organs and the urinary system, and oncocytology, laparoscopy, colposcopy and hysteroscopy should be performed.

4. Treat or not?

Women and girls get a lot of conflicting advice from doctors and their girlfriends. However, an indication for treatment can only be moderate or severe algomenorrhea, in which habitual activities, study, work are impossible and the quality of life suffers.

Currently, only 2 groups of drugs have been scientifically proven to be effective: birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, nimesulide and paracetamol.

Pain relievers, known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), reduce prostaglandin synthesis, thereby relieving discomfort.

Although NSAIDs are generally well tolerated, side effects sometimes occur with their use, in particular, their negative effects on the stomach, liver and kidneys should be noted.

The safest for a teenager are paracetamol (Efferalgan, Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Nurofen, MIG 200). It is better to take them on the first day or on the eve of the expected menstruation, then they help quickly.

Oral contraceptives prevent ovulation. This reduces the amount of prostaglandin produced, the thickness of the endometrium of the uterus becomes smaller, so menstruation is easier to bear.

Taking birth control pills can also cause side effects such as headaches and nausea. They also increase the risk of venous thrombosis. Taking NSAIDs and oral contraceptives should be agreed with a gynecologist.

For many women, pain relief at home is helped by:

1 Local heat (hot water bottles, heating pads, warm showers). with heavy bleeding, it will only increase it!
2 Special diets and nutritional supplements (magnesium, vitamins E, B1, B6). Course intake of magnesium preparations (Magnelis, Magne-B6) helps to reduce the severity of pain.
3 Herbal teas, homeopathic medicines. Despite the lack of research on their effectiveness, some herbs with a calming effect (mint, lemon balm, valerian, motherwort) will help relieve discomfort and relax. You can drink tea at any time of the day.
4 Procedures aimed at eliminating the pain impulse, such as acupuncture, acupressure or TENS (transcutaneous electrical stimulation).
5 Psychotherapeutic techniques (eg behavioral therapy).

5. Influence of lifestyle

Sometimes friends, relatives, colleagues and even doctors are not serious about the condition of a woman during this period. But severe pain that interferes with daily activities and even interferes with work is not something to be tolerated.

It is important to find your own effective ways to deal with malaise.

For example, many women on critical days try to lose some weight. Some find that relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, improve their well-being by relaxing muscle groups and a positive attitude.

Gymnastics, yoga also help relieve menstrual pain. In studies, it was noted that regular physical activity and training contribute to the normalization of the menstrual cycle, help to reduce discomfort on critical days. You need to do them constantly, under the supervision of an instructor.

No need to feel guilty, ashamed of the changes that occur in the body. Sometimes full acceptance of yourself also contributes to better well-being. Having a partner, relatives or friends who understand and support is of the utmost importance.

More than half of the world's women experience pain of varying severity during menstruation. It can be both light pulling sensations in the lower abdomen, and severe cramping pains, which are extremely difficult to endure. In most cases, discomfort is a variant of the norm, and it is not necessary to deal with them. If only they are concerned, then pills for pain during menstruation, which can be found in any pharmacy, can become a salvation.

But if, in addition to pain, there is diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and even fainting, a doctor's consultation is necessary. A severe degree of dysmenorrhea can indicate serious disorders in the body.

If there are no other reasons for concern and the main complaint of a woman is pain during menstruation, then you should not worry. Such pain may occur due to active uterine contractions.

The menstrual cycle takes place in such a way that approximately once a month the uterus, intensively contracting, begins to reject the inner layer of the epithelium. Contractions are caused by a large release of active substances - prostaglandins. The result is pain of varying severity.

Pain during menstruation may increase in the presence of the following circumstances:

malnutrition;
insufficient physical activity;
recent childbirth or;
hereditary factor;
the presence of an intrauterine contraceptive;
stress, shocks or increased emotionality.

Many women immediately ask themselves: what to drink if the stomach hurts during menstruation? But knowing its causes, you can not bring it to medication.

Eating fatty, fried and spicy foods is not recommended during and before menstruation. The more the outflow of water from the body is delayed, the more likely it is that the pain will intensify.

The same can be said about physical activity. Moderate activity allows you to digest food faster, prevents stagnation of water and improves blood circulation.

If a woman has had an abortion, childbirth or surgery in the last six months, then pain during menstruation may be a natural consequence. This phenomenon is normal and is the result of physical interference.

These pains usually go away within a few months. Also, the pain may intensify due to a contraceptive installed in the uterus or another.

Dysmenorrhea - normal or a reason to see a doctor?

The degree of pain depends not only on the number and strength of contractions, but also on the level of the pain threshold - some women tolerate pain more easily than others.

But if the discomfort is too strong, you need to pay attention to the presence of other alarming symptoms, since dysmenorrhea can accompany such serious disorders as:

spontaneous abortion ();
low calcium levels;
lowering the level of progesterone;
ovarian cyst;
bending of the uterus;
various inflammations of the genital organs.

Primary dysmenorrhea appears in young girls immediately after the onset of menstruation or within 3-4 years. Most often, emotional girls experience severe pain. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: adrenergic and parasympathetic. They differ in associated symptoms.

Adrenergic type It is expressed in an increase in the level of dopamine and adrenaline, as a result of which the hormonal background of a person changes. This is manifested by tachycardia, constipation, headaches, vasospasm.

With parasympathetic type of dysmenorrhea, on the contrary, diarrhea, edema appears, the heartbeat decreases, excess weight appears. Both types do not pose a danger to the body and are the norm, especially often manifested in girls with asthenic physique.

You need to sound the alarm in the following cases:

pills for stomach pain do not help;
severe bleeding, with many clots;
unbearable pain, nausea, vomiting and other unpleasant symptoms.

You need to see a doctor urgently. Sometimes the cause may be a miscarriage that has begun, which can be easily confused with menstruation. Since, ignoring its symptoms and untimely seeking help can cost not only health, but also life.

How to prevent menstrual pain?

Unfortunately, the realities of modern life are such that, regardless of the nature of the pain during menstruation, it is impossible to fall out of the schedule of daily activities. Therefore, many women find many ways not only to get rid of the onset of abdominal pain, but also to prevent it.

Approximately 3-4 days before the expected date of the onset of menstruation, you should refuse coffee, fried, fatty, dishes with a lot of spices, as well as sweets.

It is undesirable to consume dairy products. Raw or boiled vegetables, fruits and berries will be useful. You should eat boiled lean meat. By the way, the liver, which is rich in iron, is necessary for the body that is losing blood. Be sure to eat cereals, especially buckwheat.

The best drinks that you can drink with monthly pain to eliminate them are herbal teas - with lemon balm, mint or chamomile. They can also be used before menstruation. Additionally, you can use multivitamins, preparations with magnesium and calcium.

Physical activity has a beneficial effect on blood flow and uterine contractions. Experts say that female athletes are much less likely to experience discomfort during menstruation. It's all about physical activity.

Unprepared girls, of course, do not need to set Olympic records. For those who are far from sports, an active walk in the park, walking, cycling or rollerblading is perfect. Women who attend fitness clubs can and should continue training, slightly reducing their activity.

On the eve of menstruation, you need to protect yourself from stress and shocks as much as possible.

Medicines for pain during menstruation

The first solution that comes to mind is to take painkillers. But not every woman knows exactly which pills will help with pain during menstruation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have the fastest effect.

They relieve menstrual pain in 15-20 minutes and can even prevent severe pain if you start taking them 1-2 days before your period starts.

The principle of action of NSAIDs is to block the production of prostaglandins that cause too strong uterine contractions. After taking the pill, contractions become less pronounced, and the pain subsides, while the work of rejecting the epithelium does not stop.

From pain during menstruation, NSAID tablets containing active ingredients such as:

ibuprofen;
Indomethacin;
diclofenac sodium;
Ketoprofen;
Piroxicam.

Aspirin also belongs to anti-inflammatory drugs, but its analgesic effect is much lower compared to other drugs in this group. In addition, aspirin preparations have a blood-thinning effect and may increase bleeding.

It is necessary to strictly adhere to the recommendations specified in the instructions, since exceeding the maximum dose can lead to serious side effects. No matter how severe the pain during menstruation, you can not drink more than two tablets of NSAIDs at a time. During the day, such a drug is allowed to take no more than 4 times.

Various antispasmodics, such as Drotaverine (the well-known No-Shpa), Papaverine and others, or analgesics (Analgin, Baralgin), have proven themselves well. Such tablets must be taken in a course and strictly adhere to the recommendations on the package.

It is also necessary to keep in mind that such drugs have an extensive list of contraindications. It is best to consult a gynecologist or therapist before using them.

The name of the pills for pain during menstruation can be different, so you need to pay attention to their active ingredient. This is especially true in cases where side effects or an allergy to a particular drug were noticed earlier.

It is necessary to drink medicines exclusively with plain water at room temperature. It is strictly forbidden to take the tablets with milk or hot tea. The temperature of tea and the composition of milk enter into undesirable reactions with the tablet. As a result, it will not have the desired effect, but it can be extremely harmful to the liver or pancreas.

Often, gynecologists answer questions from women about which pills to drink for pain during menstruation simply - contraceptives. By prescribing them, the doctor expects not only to protect the girl from unwanted pregnancy, but also to normalize the hormonal background of her body.

In the absence of strong hormonal surges, the pain during menstruation will become much less pronounced. To achieve this effect, contraceptives should be drunk for a long time, and only a doctor can choose them for the needs of a particular organism.

How to relieve pain without medication?

If the pain is taken by surprise, you can perform several breathing exercises. To do this, you need to take a comfortable position, sitting or reclining, and take a deep slow breath in through your nose, and then exhale through your mouth.

Another option for this exercise is with weights on the stomach (a medium-sized book will do, in no case do you need to use very heavy objects!). It is enough to perform 5-6 repetitions to relieve pain.

From sharply emerging pain, heat helps well. For example, a heating pad or a plastic bottle of warm water placed on the stomach for 15 minutes. To eliminate the pain that has already occurred during menstruation, you can drink something that will increase blood circulation, such as hot black tea or non-alcoholic mulled wine.

Herbal infusions also have a beneficial effect. Most often, during menstruation, they drink an infusion of raspberry leaves, oregano herbs and fees from chamomile and lemon balm.

An effective remedy for pain is massage. With menstrual pain, the following types of it will help:

light stroking of the abdomen clockwise;
back massage;
acupressure.

Acupressure massage consists in massaging a point on the inside of the lower leg, 4–5 cm above the ankle. Short presses on it will relieve abdominal pain.

Anna Mironova

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Many women are familiar with such symptoms of impending or onset menstruation as soreness in the chest area, bad mood, loss of strength, irritability and pain in the lower abdomen. Usually these days the work is not going well, and the mood is such that even household members try to catch the eye less often.

What experts say about painful periods, and how to relieve this pain ?

Why does the stomach hurt during menstruation - the main causes of pain during menstruation

Every woman (with rare exceptions) experiences before or during menstruation least discomfort. The main complaint is abdominal pain.

Why is this happening?

First of all, don't panic : if there are no accompanying "signals", and menstruation is not knocked out of the framework outlined by doctors, then there is nothing to worry about. The natural physiological process (monthly rejection and release of the inner layer of the uterus, which, when contracting, causes pain) does not require an urgent visit to the doctors.

Painful periods have a name - algomenorrhea:

Primary algomenorrhea. Increased contractile activity of the myometrium by tissue hormones and, as a result, cramping pain and vasospasm. It is characteristic of women 16-25 years old. Symptoms include nausea, headaches, upset stools and soreness in the lower abdomen a day or two before menstruation and in the first two days of menstruation. Pathological changes in the pelvic organs are not observed. Typically, the level of soreness decreases after childbirth and with age.
Secondary algomenorrhea. In this case, there are any pathologies of the pelvic organs, and the pain becomes a symptom of anatomical changes in the uterus.

To causes of painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), not associated with diseases of the female reproductive system, include:

Sex hormone imbalance (progesterone, which promotes uterine contraction, and prostaglandin, the excess of which increases the force of contraction of the uterine muscles), excessive thyroid activity.
Intrauterine device and other contraceptives.
High sensitivity to changes in the body.
An ill-positioned uterus.
Excitability of the nervous system.
Pain as a result of childbirth or.
Lack of proper physical activity.
Heredity.
Calcium or magnesium deficiency.
Wrong nutrition. Read also:

If the pain during menstruation is of a short-term nature, the level of pain is tolerable, and there is no need to postpone everyday activities, then everything is fine, and there is no reason to panic .

10 best recipes - how to get rid of pain during menstruation

Traditional folk methods can help reduce the level of pain during menstruation (provided there are no serious problems with women's health):

Dry heat, massage and relaxation
Heat will help relax the uterus and reduce the strength of its contractions, a gentle massage of the abdomen (strictly clockwise) will relax the muscles.
Painkiller
1-2 tablets of no-shpy will help relieve spasms. With severe pain, ibuprofen, spasmalgon or ketonal will help to cope. For pain caused by overexcitation of the nervous system (stress, etc.), a simple sedative can help - even ordinary valerian.
Oral contraceptives
Birth control pills contain hormones that help normalize hormonal levels. These pills are very effective for relieving abdominal pain and other "effects" of menstruation. Of course, without consulting a gynecologist, you should not start taking it.
Physical exercise
Of course, we are not talking about shock loads and, moreover, not about exercises for the press, but tilts, body rotations, light stretching are quite suitable. Pilates and yoga, which involve working on muscle tone, are also excellent pain relievers.
Compresses and baths
For example, a bath with sea salt (taken before and after menstruation for 15-20 minutes, daily). Sitz baths (contrasting) before the onset of menstruation and compresses during menstruation are also suitable. After a bath or a contrast shower, you should dress warmly and lie down for at least an hour.
Herbal teas, infusions, decoctions
Such remedies include chamomile and mint tea (you can add honey), parsley or sorrel, mineral water, tansy, acorns, strawberries, angelica, etc.
Massage
Lumbar massage will help relieve spasms. It is desirable, with someone's help, although you can do it yourself. Put a tennis ball in two socks, lie on your back so that the balls are at the level of the lower ribs on both sides of the spine. Gently press them with your back and lightly roll the balls with your muscles.
Essential oils
Before menstruation and the first days, you can rub a mixture of essential oils into the sacral region, as well as into the lower abdomen. Ingredients: St. John's wort oil (50 ml), marjoram (5 drops), clary sage (4 drops), yarrow (5 drops). Rub a couple of times a day. Before the procedure, conduct an allergy test by smearing the mixture a little, for example, on the elbows. Itching or redness is a sign of an allergy.
Swimming
The most useful and least traumatic way to relieve pain. The main benefits are the release of endorphins (a natural pain reliever), muscle relaxation.
Cold on the stomach
Freezing pain is one of the most effective methods. An ice pack should be placed on the stomach (only in a towel and over clothes!) For 15 minutes, no more.

As for the prevention of pain before and during menstruation, remember to eating foods high in calcium (low-fat fermented milk), save activity (this also applies to sex - orgasm reduces the level of discomfort), minimize spicy, spicy and coffee in your diet, give up smoking and alcohol, do not get cold and avoid stress.

When should I see a doctor for pain during menstruation?

You should be wary and pay a visit to your gynecologist if ...

Pain changes your usual way of life (you have to take a day off and lie in bed).
Severe pain lasts more than 2 days.
Pain is accompanied by nausea, diarrhea, headache.
Excessive bleeding is accompanied by the release of blood clots and lasts more than 1-2 days.
Severe pain is present even with the use of oral contraceptives.
Severe pain (for middle-aged women) appeared recently.
Ibuprofen, but-shpa, analgesics do not help.
The discharge is more abundant than before (pads last for 1-2 hours).
The cycle was broken, and body weight decreased.

Such symptoms may indicate the presence of serious reasons for treatment. These usually include:

endometriosis(aching or cramping pains radiating to the rectum during the entire cycle).
Fibroids, fibroids, polyps, or cancer of the uterus.
Phlebeurysm.
Anomalies in the structure of the uterus.
Willebrand disease.
Deficiency of platelets in the blood.
Inflammatory process in the genitourinary system.

To relieve pain during menstruation, natural non-hormonal preparations are often used, such as Menalgin. It reduces pain, intensity, duration of menstruation and relieves psycho-emotional overstrain. Taking Menalgin on "critical days" reduces the need to use NSAIDs that adversely affect the gastrointestinal tract. With a tendency to painful menstruation, it is recommended to start taking the drug on the eve of the 1st day of menstruation. Menalgin has a complex action: analgesic, antispasmodic, sedative and decongestant.

In no case should you suffer and endure severe pain! If you are worried about your condition - immediately contact the doctor . A standard examination will either calm you down or help you start treatment on time, which in any case will be beneficial.

Site site warns: self-medication can harm your health! All the tips presented are for information only, they do not replace medical treatment and do not cancel a trip to the doctor!