Painful periods what to do. How and how to relieve pain during menstruation at home. Diagnosis of painful menstruation

Menstrual flow is often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms. Often women complain of weakness, nausea, dizziness. The most common phenomenon is pain in the lower abdomen during the menstrual phase of the cycle. This phenomenon is called algomenorrhea.

Pain during menstruation is scientifically called algomenorrhea.

The intensity of discomfort during menstruation is often hormonal in nature, but may depend on other reasons. These include a deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body, inflammatory processes in the pelvis, as well as a hereditary factor.

For severe pain, you should consult a specialist. Pathological processes in the reproductive organs that require treatment are not excluded. The gynecologist will tell you what to do to reduce the pain.

Medical therapy

Treating painful periods is a lengthy process. A single dose of an analgesic will help only for a short period of time. In the next cycle, the pain will again disturb the woman.

In the event that the test results confirm the hormonal cause of algomenorrhea, the gynecologist will prescribe oral contraceptives to the woman. These medicines are designed to correct the hormonal background. Thanks to this action, not only pain stops, but the regularity of the cycle is established, and the condition of the skin and hair improves. The following drugs are popular:

• Yarina;
• Ovidon;
• Triziston.

The specific drug and the duration of the course is determined by the doctor. Incorrect selection of hormonal contraceptives will only aggravate the situation. It should be noted that the analgesic effect is achieved 3-4 months after the start of treatment.

Diana 35 is prescribed if the cause of pain is hormonal

Painful menstruation is a consequence of severe muscle spasm. This is especially pronounced in the first two days of bleeding. Gradually, unpleasant sensations weaken and with the end of menstruation disappear completely. The pain is provoked by intense contractions of the muscles of the uterus, which rejects its inner layer - the endometrium. In this case, antispasmodics will help get rid of the pain.

The safest drug from this group is No-shpa. Its active ingredient is drotaverine. Once in the body, it effectively relaxes the muscles. No-shpa also promotes faster separation of the endometrium. The maximum dose of the drug is 6 tablets per day.

Another effective pain reliever is Papaverine. It also reduces the tone of smooth muscles. The advantage of this substance lies in several forms of release. You can opt for tablets or prefer rectal suppositories. Candles with papaverine act faster, since the active substance is immediately absorbed into the blood.

There are other drugs that help relieve pain during menstruation:

• Buscopan;
• Halidor.

You need to take any remedy after consulting a gynecologist.

Spazgan relieves pain from spasms

In addition, with painful periods, it is appropriate to take analgesics. These medicines will not only relieve an attack of pain, but also help get rid of weakness in the body. The most effective analgesics are recognized:

• Baralgin;
• took;
• Novalgin;
• Piretin;
• Minalgin.

If the test results indicate the presence of an inflammatory process, then the doctor will additionally prescribe nonsteroidal drugs. For maximum effect, they should be taken 2-3 days before the onset of menstrual flow. The dosage is individual for each drug, it will be specified by the gynecologist. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs include:

• ibuprofen;
• Ketoprofen;
• Diclofenac;
• Indomethacin.

Preparations such as Diclofenac are available in the form of suppositories. With their help, you can relieve pain directly during menstruation.

Analgin - a time-tested analgesic

Non-drug therapy

Feeling bad is hard to bear. There are several effective techniques to alleviate the condition of a woman:

• Menstruation will be less painful if a woman adjusts her diet. It is worth reducing the consumption of fatty and spicy foods. It is wise to avoid alcohol.
• Many people believe that in order to relieve menstrual pain, you need to eat foods that stimulate the production of endorphins. These hormones can alleviate the condition. These foods include chocolate and bananas.
• Painful periods are often observed in women who do not allow themselves a good rest. You should adjust your daily routine.
• Stress often provokes the development of algomenorrhea. Treatment of this condition is impossible in the presence of constant nervous strain. You need to choose your own method of relaxation.
• When pain occurs, you can do a light relaxing massage.
• Menstruation will be less painful if you regularly do exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles.
• A warm heating pad applied to the stomach can alleviate the condition with severe pain. This recommendation must be followed carefully. It is advisable to consult with your doctor first. This technique is prohibited in the presence of inflammation.

High-quality chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins

Treatment with folk remedies

Painful periods can also be alleviated by using folk recipes. Such funds are safe and effective, but a consultation with a gynecologist will not be superfluous. Often in the treatment of algomenorrhea, various herbs are used. Many of them are able to relieve intestinal discomfort or urinary tract pain that makes itself felt during menstruation.

For this purpose, women often use oregano. Making a decoction out of it is easy. You need to pour 2 tablespoons of chopped herbs with boiling water, and insist for several hours. The decoction is taken orally. Daily rate - 400 ml. You can divide this volume into 3 doses.

The bark of viburnum has a similar effect. With its help, you can get rid of severe pain. Three or four teaspoons of raw materials are poured with boiling water and put on fire. After half an hour, the resulting broth is filtered. To relieve pain during menstruation, you need to take a decoction inside 1 tablespoon no more than 3 times a day.

You can take a decoction of a mixture of chamomile, valerian and mint. Such a collection will not only reduce pain during menstruation, but also relieve stress. One teaspoon of a mixture of herbs is poured into a glass of boiling water and infused for half an hour. You can take the infusion not only during menstruation, but also in the second half of the cycle.

Treatment of algomenorrhea is often carried out with the use of water pepper infusion. The beneficial substances that make up the plant can reduce the intensity of bleeding. In addition, after taking the infusion, the process of gas formation in the intestine decreases. Due to this, the pressure on the uterus is significantly reduced, which allows you to get rid of pain.

It is required to take a decoction of water pepper for a long time, from 3 to 6 months. One tablespoon of grass is poured with a glass of boiling water. The mixture is heated in a water bath, and then infused for an hour.

With painful periods, it is useful to make a decoction of nettle leaves. One tablespoon of grass is poured into a glass of water. The mixture should be boiled for 10 minutes. The decoction is filtered and taken orally before meals. It is important to start using this remedy a few days before the onset of menstruation.

There are many ways to get rid of pain. However, it is necessary to treat algomenorrhea only under the supervision of a physician.

The intensity of discharge and associated symptoms during menstruation is a clear indicator of women's health. Some of the fair sex suffer from severe pain since adolescence. In order for menstruation to pass quickly and painlessly, you need to undergo an examination and identify the causes of unbearable pain.

Causes of painful periods

Minor menstrual pain can occur with increased muscle contractions of the uterus, contributing to the rejection of the functional layer of the endometrium. Disruption of this process can be triggered by many factors. When the intensity of the contractions increases, the woman experiences unbearable pain, which in medicine is referred to as "dysmenorrhea" or "algodysmenorrhea".

The most common cause of painful periods in adolescents is the location of the uterus, which compresses the nerve endings during the menstrual cycle. Pain syndrome in women who have not given birth to children can be triggered by:

• CNS disorders;
• congenital anomalies of internal organs;
• lack of magnesium;
• genital tuberculosis;
• psychoneurological pathologies;
• dysplastic anomalies of the connective tissue.

In most women, algomenorrhea disappears by itself immediately after the birth of a child. This is due to the fact that during childbirth there is a stretching of the cervix, which previously prevents the release of blood.

Painful menstruation in women with children can be observed with the following pathologies:

• Sexually transmitted infections contribute to the development of diseases that cause severe pain, as well as menstrual irregularities.
• Inflammatory processes caused by the reproduction of opportunistic microorganisms are often accompanied by painful menstruation. Vitamin deficiency, hypothermia, or neglect of personal hygiene rules can provoke an increased growth of bacteria.
• Malignant and benign tumors, gradually increasing in size, put pressure on the vessels of the internal organs, which leads to impaired uterine blood flow.
• Endometriosis is characterized by an overgrowth of endometrial cells outside the uterus and often causes menstrual irregularities. When a hormonal imbalance occurs, menstruation becomes plentiful and painful.

The severity of pain during menstruation

Pain during menstruation, depending on the cause of their appearance, have different intensity. The severity of the pain syndrome is determined by the accompanying symptoms:

1. The first degree is characterized by mild pain during menstrual bleeding. In most cases, it does not have systemic manifestations and practically does not affect daily activities. To cope with pain, women are advised to take analgesics.
2. The second degree has more pronounced painful symptoms, significantly reducing performance. To carry out professional activities in the usual mode, a woman needs to take drugs that have an analgesic or anti-inflammatory effect. Rarely, pain is accompanied by systemic symptoms.
3. The third degree is determined by the severe pain syndrome with algomenorrhea, in which professional activity is almost impossible. This condition in a woman is accompanied by severe headaches, insomnia, nervous disorders, loss of consciousness. It is very difficult to eliminate pain, even with the help of painkillers.

Primary and secondary dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea is most often diagnosed in adolescents, mature girls and young women. The first menstrual bleeding in most girls aged 10-13 years is accompanied by a sharp pain in the lower abdomen. If no painful symptoms were observed during menarche, they may appear within the next 3 years. Menstrual pain during this period has a different intensity.

Primary dysmenorrhea is called functional, since the causes of its appearance are associated with changes in the tissues of the internal genital organs, and not with the development of organic diseases. Pain syndrome can occur a day before menstruation and persist for the first 2 days. Cramping or aching uterine pain often extends to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bladder.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is associated with congenital or acquired organic diseases that affect the woman's menstrual cycle. Painful periods are the result of impaired blood circulation of the uterus, stretching of its walls, contraction of the muscle layer or other pathological processes.

Most often, secondary dysmenorrhea affects young women aged 26-30 years. Aching pains in the lower abdomen occur a few days before the onset of menstruation. The maximum intensity of the pain syndrome is reached on the 2-3rd day of menstruation.

How to eliminate severe menstrual pain?

The tactics of treating painful periods depends on the cause of the onset of the pathological condition. If severe pain is associated with an infectious or inflammatory disease, a woman needs to undergo treatment to eliminate it. With primary dysmenorrhea, symptomatic therapy is most often sufficient.

The method of treatment of pain syndrome is chosen by the gynecologist after carrying out diagnostic measures. Self-medication can provoke the transition of the disease to a more severe form.

Medications

Therapy of dysmenorrhea will be effective only if an integrated approach is used when prescribing drugs. The treatment regimen for a pathological condition is made up of the following types of drugs:

• non-steroidal drugs with anti-inflammatory effect (Brufen, Ibufen, Nalgezin, Sanaprox);
• antispasmodics (Spazmol, Baralgin, Drotaverin, Spazmonet);
• hormonal contraceptives, which include a progestogen (Dufaston, Levanova, Megastron);
• antifungal suppositories (Zalain, Betadine, Pimafucin) are prescribed for intensive reproduction of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms;
• drugs that have a sedative effect on the central nervous system (Trioxazine, Valerian Forte, motherwort tincture);
• homeopathic medicines (Feminal, Onagris, Tazalok).

Physiotherapy treatment

The timely appointment of a complex of physiotherapeutic procedures can significantly reduce the pain syndrome during menstruation. Since physiotherapy has many contraindications, a gynecologist should prescribe procedures after establishing the cause of pain.

In primary dysmenorrhea, electrophoresis and acupuncture are used. Secondary pathology is treated with therapeutic baths, pulsed currents, electrical stimulation, magnetotherapy and ultrasound. It should be noted that physiotherapeutic procedures are contraindicated during menstruation. They should be carried out in the second half of the cycle.

ethnoscience

To reduce the intensity of menstrual pain, you can use the methods of traditional medicine. Horsetail has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, so it is often used to eliminate gynecological diseases. As an anesthetic, a decoction of mint leaves, valerian root or chamomile flowers is often used.

Abundant discharge during menstruation

Despite the fact that the amount of blood released is an individual feature of each woman, menstruation, which does not stop for a week, during which it is very often necessary to change hygiene products, are considered abundant. A large amount of menstrual flow (menorrhagia) can be a sign of serious disorders in the female reproductive system.

Possible reasons

The main causes of heavy discharge during menstruation are the following pathologies:

• hormonal disbalance;
• infections of the female genital organs;
• disorders caused by the intrauterine device;
• reduced blood clotting;
• diseases of the endocrine, genitourinary or cardiovascular systems;
• overload of the body, provoked by stress or physical exertion.

Causes for concern

If during menstruation a woman releases a large amount of blood, in which there are large clots, this should be the reason for contacting a gynecologist. Abundant discharge can lead to the development of anemia, in which general well-being worsens, weakness appears, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness is possible.

Basic principles of therapy

Estrogen contraceptives are used to restore hormonal balance in the treatment of menorrhagia. Their action is aimed at reducing the growth of the endometrium and reducing the volume of menstrual flow. With severe bleeding, the use of hemostatic agents is recommended. To reduce the risk of anemia, a woman is prescribed iron supplements.

Preventive measures to prevent painful and heavy periods

To prevent dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, doctors recommend the following rules:

• do not disturb sleep and rest;
• include fruits and vegetables in the diet;
• monitor body weight;
• reduce the consumption of coffee and tea;
• avoid nervous shocks;
• spend more time outdoors
• keep fit.

Most often, painful periods are primary dysmenorrhea, that is, discomfort does not arise due to illness, but by itself. If you are healthy, but you are in pain, then prostaglandins are to blame for the malaise - these are mediators that increase the sensitivity of pain receptors. They are produced in the lining of the uterus during menstruation. Because of them, the uterus contracts to quickly remove blood and endometrium.

When there are a lot of prostaglandins and the uterus contracts strongly, pain appears in the lower abdomen, which resembles convulsions.

Sometimes back pain is added to these sensations. Prostaglandins also affect the contraction of smooth muscles in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, so these substances are responsible for nausea and diarrhea during menstruation.

What other causes cause pain?

If the pain begins suddenly, then you need to examine the genitourinary system and organs that are located nearby. Perhaps the real cause of discomfort is diseases such as:

1. Endometriosis.
2. Inflammation of the bladder (cystitis).
3. Myomas, fibromas and other tumors.
4. Inflammatory diseases in the pelvic organs.
5. Intestinal diseases.

With painful periods, any of these diseases can join the increased production of prostaglandins. Therefore, if the pain has become stronger than usual, lasts longer than three days, the cycle has broken, unusual discharge has appeared, or consult a doctor with these symptoms.

What tests to take to understand that this is not a dangerous disease?

You need an examination by a gynecologist (at the same time, the doctor can take smears, including hidden ones), as well as an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs.

This is enough to draw conclusions about health and treat either the disease or dysmenorrhea.

If, upon examination, the doctor does not find anything, and the pain during menstruation is severe, does not go away with bleeding, and the prescribed treatment does not help, then a diagnostic operation will be required to find or exclude endometriosis.

Why does it hurt me, but my friend endures menstruation without problems?

You were unlucky. No one can say for sure why some women have heavier periods than others. This is a feature of the body that needs to be dealt with.

What pills can save yourself?

First aid - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs. These are fairly safe painkillers, sold without a prescription and in a variety of combinations.

Anti-inflammatory drugs do more than just numb the pain. They reduce the production of prostaglandins, the very ones that are to blame for everything.

It makes no sense to immediately rush for funds with a complex composition. Ordinary ibuprofen may help. There are also stronger drugs - indomethacin, ketoprofen. All drugs have contraindications. Women who have stomach problems should be especially careful. To take NSAIDs in these cases, you need to consult a doctor who will select the drug.

But antispasmodics help with dysmenorrhea worse (if they help at all), because they do not affect the cause of the pain.

Will birth control pills help?

Hormonal orals create an artificial menstrual cycle with their own hormonal levels. At the same time, the endometrium becomes thinner so that a fertilized egg cannot attach to it. And since this layer is thinner, then there are fewer prostaglandins in it. Therefore, contraceptive pills are often prescribed for painful periods. Painful menstrual periods.

If the doctor advises pills, try to choose modern drugs with minimal side effects and check if you have any contraindications.

Therapy is not limited to pills: hormonal coils or perform the same tasks.

Than to be treated, except for tablets?

There are methods that help to make it easier to endure pain during menstruation. Unfortunately, it is impossible to say for sure that they will help: everyone has their own reactions. Try everything in turn, focus on your own state and listen to the sensations.

1. Warm. The best option is to get under the covers and sit with a mug of hot tea, you can even apply a heating pad to the lower abdomen, but this is not always possible. If you need to get out of the house and do business, dress warmly. Choose clothes that do not create discomfort in the abdomen: tight jeans and belts that cut into the body will wait a few days. The warm shower also works.
2. Sport. You need to go in for sports for prevention, and when it becomes difficult, do light exercises for muscles and stretching.
3. Acupuncture. There is no evidence that such alternative medicine works. But at least the procedures distract from the pain.
4. Relaxing massage. It distracts from unpleasant sensations and is generally useful for the body and mind, which also needs to rest sometimes. Massage the abdomen, stroking it clockwise in the area where the pain is felt.
5. Comfortable posture. If it is possible to lie down, then try to raise your legs higher or lie on your side with your knees bent.
6. To give up smoking. Quit for good, not just for the days when you feel pain.
7. Vitamins and trace elements. Also not an absolutely reliable method, but it is possible that supplements with vitamins B6, B1, E, magnesium and calcium will help you Menstrual cramps: Lifestyle and home remedies.

Is it possible to get rid of pain once and for all?

Not as long as you have your period. Although there are surgeries Patient education: Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) which destroy the nerves in the uterus. The effectiveness of such treatment is low, but there are risks.

Will the pain decrease after childbirth?

There is no guarantee that the pain will go away after childbirth, despite the fact that many doctors for some reason advise childbirth as a remedy for many gynecological problems.

Some women notice that the pain decreases with age and after childbirth, but not everyone can count on it. Perhaps the pain will remain with you until the menopause.

Pain during menstruation can be triggered by several reasons, which may relate to pathological processes in a woman's body or be her feature. Only a specialist who first examines the patient and then prescribes tests and ultrasound can identify the exact cause of discomfort during menstruation. Until the exact cause of the pain is clarified, you can use various techniques and medicines that can normalize the patient's condition.

If the pain is still tolerable, or if you simply do not want to use medications, you can try to eliminate the pain using non-drug methods.

1. Taking a warm bath with aromatic oils will help you relax and relieve stress. Warm water will ease the soreness of the lower abdomen. The procedure should not be taken with heavy bleeding. Orange, rosemary, lavender, and sandalwood are great relaxing oils.
2. A warm compress on the abdomen will also have a bath-like effect. It should be applied to the pubic area and just above it. Keep a warm compress for a maximum of 15 minutes.
3. There is a pose in Pilates that is very useful for relieving menstrual pain. To do this, a woman needs to lie face down on a hard surface. Then she needs to clasp her legs with her hands, lifting them above her back. The chest also rises. The figure forms a kind of oval. In this position, you should fix for 30-60 seconds. You can repeat the exercise an unlimited number of times.
4. If there are no contraindications, sexual intercourse can also be a salvation in the presence of pain. It causes a strong flow of blood to the genitals, and orgasm causes rhythmic contractions of the uterus, after which it relaxes. But during sexual intercourse during menstruation, it is imperative to use a barrier method of contraception. The cervix is ​​very sensitive and ajar, so it is easy to bring an infection into it.
5. To disperse blood, it is also useful to drink 50 ml of red wine, but no more. In this case, the alcoholic beverage must be of good quality.

Attention! When eliminating pain with heat, the time of the procedure should be controlled. It is impossible to warm a sick stomach during menstruation for more than 10-15 minutes, since a longer exposure will cause increased bleeding.

Fast-acting drugs for stomach pain

A powerful pain reliever that is not addictive and is able to suppress the most severe and prolonged pain. Available in the form of tablets and injections, the latter are used during menstruation only as a last resort. For the treatment of adult patients, it is recommended to take 10 mg of the active substance every 6 hours; with severe pain, Ketanov can be drunk every 4 hours. If the pain syndrome is so pronounced that it is difficult for a woman to move, and there is confusion, you can immediately drink 20 mg of tablets. It is strictly forbidden to drink more than 90 mg of the active substance per day. Do not drink with kidney pathologies. Treat no more than three days.

Shows a quick effect within 5-10 minutes after ingestion. Belongs to the non-steroidal group, the main active ingredient is nimesulide. Available in several pharmacological forms, tablets are prescribed during menstruation. The dosage of Nise for women is one tablet twice in the morning and evening. In a serious condition of the patient, you can take four tablets in 24 hours, which is equal to 400 mg of nimesulide. Nise can not be used for menstruation for more than 3-5 days.

According to the manufacturer, these pills are designed specifically for women and show the desired effect in the first minutes after taking. The main active ingredient of Nurofen Express Lady is ibuprofen, which also has a general stimulating effect on the body. The drug does not eliminate the very cause of pain, but simply blocks the production of pain signals. It is allowed to take these female pills from the age of 12. The dosage is one tablet every 8 hours. It is strictly forbidden to take more than 3 doses of the active ingredient in one day.

Fast-acting non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Drink the selected dose should be at the same time with food or immediately after it, in order to reduce the negative impact on the gastrointestinal tract. The dosage of the active substance is 100 mg of Nimulid no more than twice a day. The ideal interval for taking the drug is 12 hours. With a faster intake, there is a risk of problems with internal organs. The duration of therapy is a maximum of 5 days. Take with great caution in case of kidney problems.

Attention! The described medicines are also among the most powerful painkillers. Therefore, they should not be taken for mild pain, as they can cause severe side effects.

Cheap medicines for menstrual pain

Refers to fast-acting antispasmodics. It is taken for moderate and mild pain, provoked by contraction of smooth muscles. The main active ingredient of the drug is metamizole, the action of which is supported by pitophenone. Spazgan should be taken one hour after eating no more than two tablets at a time. For a day, even with severe pain syndrome, more than 8 doses of the active substance are not used. The medication is taken no more than 4-5 days.

An Indian drug that can quickly relax the uterine organ and prevent its painful contractions. Taken required to be taken after meals, the ideal interval is 1-2 hours after a meal. The composition of the drug also includes metamizole, but the tablets are more powerful than Spazgan. The drug should be prescribed from the age of 14, two tablets no more than three times a day. With a moderate pain syndrome, you should not drink more than 3 tablets per day. Girls under 14 years old should take 1 tablet 2 times a day. Reception Brala can be carried out for 3-5 days.

Also an Indian drug of combined analgesic and antispasmodic effects. It has a noticeable result within 30 minutes after use, is available in the form of tablets and injections. For menstrual pain, it is recommended to choose the tablet form of Revalgin. The dosage of the drug is 1 tablet up to 6 times in 24 hours with the same interval. For severe pain, you can take 2 doses at once three times a day. The course of treatment is no more than five days.

The main active ingredient of this effective remedy is ibuprofen, which has a mild effect on the patient. It can reduce the temperature, so when taking the drug with normal indicators, a breakdown may occur. It will pass immediately after the normalization of body temperature. Mig should be taken one tablet at a time, which is equal to 400 mg of the active ingredient. For mild pain, you can take half a single dose. A maximum of 1.2 g of the active substance can be taken per day. Instead of Miga, you can take Ibuprofen or Ibufen, they are in the same price category and are taken according to the same scheme. The drug should be taken no more than five days.

Attention! The given drugs at an affordable cost belong to the first or second generation, which can cause side effects in a larger number of patients. But subject to doses and rules of use, their probability is minimal.

The average cost of medicines for pain during menstruation

Attention! When buying the described drugs, their cost in a pharmacy may vary due to different forms and doses of the active substance. The price may also differ due to different manufacturing plants. Original medicines are usually several times more expensive than generics. Prices are displayed in national currencies.

Traditional medicine for menstrual pain

Rue and buckthorn

To prepare the solution, mix the herbal part of the rue and the root part of the buckthorn in a 1: 1 ratio. Grind the ingredients and take 1 teaspoon of the mixture. It is poured with 200-250 ml of boiling water and kept for 20 minutes under the lid. After insisting, all the thick must be removed through cheesecloth. Take the resulting solution should be between meals during the day. You can use the infusion throughout all menstruation.

herbal decoction

In the same amount, the herbal part of lemon balm, cinquefoil, as well as valerian and buckthorn roots should be mixed. All components are well mixed and crushed. Treatment should be taken before the onset of menstruation for 3 three days. This will avoid pain during menstruation. For preparation, a teaspoon of herbs is taken and 200 ml of boiling water is poured. Treatment should be taken 3 times a day, 150 ml.

Video - Exercises to reduce pain during the menstrual cycle

Marigolds and Melissa

These components must also be mixed in equal proportions. Take 1-1.5 teaspoons of the mixture per glass of water. It is recommended to infuse herbs under a tight lid for 30 minutes. After that, you should take a strained infusion throughout the day. The duration of treatment is 5 days. With longer periods, you can drink marigolds and lemon balm for 7-8 days. For greater effect, valerian rhizomes can be added to the solution, they should also be taken in the same proportion with other herbs.

Attention! Home remedies and pills should be supported with a proper diet. A woman is recommended to eat more vegetables and fruits, take vitamins, Calcium D3 Nycomed and Magnesium B6 are especially useful. This combination will prevent painful contraction of the uterus, and will also be a good prevention of anemia.

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The appearance of pain during menstruation is a very urgent problem for many girls and women. According to statistics from various sources, dysmenorrhea is observed in 30-90% of the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity. In about 10% of cases, very painful periods lead to loss of performance and disruption of daily activities. The maximum peak incidence occurs between the ages of 18 and 24. However, it can occur in any girl and woman from the first menstruation to the onset of menopause.

In accordance with medical terminology, a pathological condition characterized by a violation of the menstrual cycle in the form of pain during menstruation of varying intensity is commonly called dysmenorrhea. However, the term "algodysmenorrhea" is considered obsolete and is practically not used.

Cause

Why do painful periods occur? Despite the modern level of medicine, most experts are unlikely to be able to give an unambiguous answer to this question. The exact cause of painful periods in primary dysmenorrhea is still unknown. Some scientists associate its occurrence exclusively with functional disorders in the female body.

There are suggestions about the influence of excessive production of prostaglandins on the development of primary dysmenorrhea, which provoke uterine contraction, vasospasm and impaired microcirculation in the myometrium (ischemia). As evidence for this theory, the results of menstrual blood tests are cited, in which an increase in the level of prostaglandins by 2–4 times is found, compared with the norm.

The development of secondary dysmenorrhea is based on various diseases or structural changes in the female reproductive system. The most common causes of painful periods with this form of pathology:

1. Endometriosis.
2. Myoma of the uterus.
3. Congenital anomalies in the development of the genital organs.
4. Inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system.
5. Serious problems with the blood vessels of the small pelvis (for example, varicose veins).

If you're not sure what to do about painful periods, make an appointment with a medical specialist.

Severity

Depending on the severity of the pain syndrome, several degrees of severity of dysmenorrhea are distinguished. What are the criteria for evaluating this violation of the menstrual cycle:

• First degree. Painful sensations during menstruation are mild. In rare cases, they affect professional and daily activities. There are no systemic manifestations. Painkillers (analgesics) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are sometimes taken to relieve pain.
• Second degree. Painful periods interfere with daily life. Engaging in professional activities (training, work, etc.) is possible only after taking painkillers. Single systemic symptoms are observed.
• Third degree. There is a sharp decrease in professional and daily activity. Quite often there are systemic manifestations (headache, depression, sleep disturbance, problems with appetite, fainting, nausea, etc.). Taking painkillers does not bring the desired effect.

The early first menstruation in a child aged 10-12 years is often accompanied by painful sensations.

Features of primary dysmenorrhea

In most cases, primary dysmenorrhea begins to appear in adolescents 1–2 years after the onset of menstruation. Young girls of asthenic constitution are more often ill. Clinical picture of primary dysmenorrhea:

• Painful periods occur 12 to 24 hours before or with the onset of menstruation. As a rule, several days last.


• The pains are cramping in nature and are localized in the lower abdomen. Sometimes they complain of aching, twitching or bursting pains that spread to the perineum and lower back.
• In parallel, there is a deterioration in the general condition. There is weakness, irritability, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever, fainting, etc.
• Systemic clinical symptoms, including pain syndrome, can disturb a woman from 2–3 hours to several days.

Gynecological and ultrasound examination of girls and women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea does not reveal pathological changes in the organs of the reproductive system. The diagnosis is made on the basis of clinical examination and patient complaints.

Features of secondary dysmenorrhea

As clinical practice shows, secondary dysmenorrhea is a manifestation of many gynecological diseases (endometriosis, uterine fibroids, anomalies in the development of the organs of the reproductive system, etc.). The main group of patients are women over 30 years of age with a history of childbirth, miscarriage, artificial termination of pregnancy, infectious or inflammatory gynecological diseases. It should be noted that painful menstruation in secondary dysmenorrhea most often develops due to endometriosis.

Basically, there are constant aching pains throughout the cycle. A few days before menstruation can increase significantly. When uterine fibroids are characterized by cramping pain. If a woman has secondary dysmenorrhea, then some intrauterine pathology will be determined thanks to an ultrasound examination. This is the main distinguishing feature from the primary form. If necessary, hysteroscopy and laparoscopy can be used as a method for diagnosis and simultaneous treatment.

The cause of painful menstruation, which is very pronounced, is often an organic pathology.

Treatment

What to do with painful periods in a teenager, girl and woman? Regardless of age, painkillers (Ibuprofen, Tamipul, Spazmalgon, No-shpa, etc.) are used as emergency care for severe pain during menstruation. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that applying a heating pad or carrying out other warm procedures in the lower abdomen in such cases is contraindicated, since in the presence of an infectious or inflammatory disease in this area, serious complications cannot be avoided. Timely seeking help from a specialist doctor is the only sure way to get rid of pain during menstruation.

Methods of getting rid of primary and secondary dysmenorrhea are somewhat different. In the vast majority of cases, with primary dysmenorrhea, an integrated approach to treatment is used, which includes:

1. Drug therapy (painkillers, antispasmodics, tranquilizers, vitamins, etc.).
2. Non-drug treatment (psychotherapy, physiotherapy).
3. Folk remedies (at the discretion of the attending physician).

It is possible to successfully cure secondary dysmenorrhea only if the underlying disease (endometriosis, uterine fibroids, inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system, etc.) is finally eliminated. During exacerbations, symptomatic therapy may be prescribed, which consists in taking painkillers.

Only a qualified specialist, after conducting a thorough examination, is able to determine what can hurt in the lower abdomen.

Drug therapy

The main goal of treating primary dysmenorrhea is to eliminate pain, eliminate autonomic disorders and normalize the mental state. The determining factor in the appointment of drug therapy is the severity of the disease. In a mild form, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are taken, which are considered basic therapy. If more severe forms of the disease are observed, not only NSAIDs are used, but also drugs based on gestagens, nootropics and drugs that improve cerebral circulation.

Given the risk/benefit ratio, Ibuprofen is considered the best option for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea among all NSAIDs that have been clinically studied. It has been proven that when it is used, the production of prostaglandins in the uterine mucosa is suppressed to a normal level. In addition, it does not affect the change in the endometrium during the menstrual cycle. Also, Ibuprofen is characterized by a peripheral and central analgesic effect. Nevertheless, the dosage and duration of taking NSAIDs must be agreed with your doctor.

Magnesium preparations can be added to the course of treatment in case of a shortage of this microelement in the body. With very painful periods, constantly disturbing a woman, it is recommended to prescribe combined oral contraceptives. They help reduce estrogen levels, which leads to a decrease in the production of prostaglandins and the elimination of pain. They also provide a decrease in the threshold of excitability of the myometrium. Preparations containing gestagens have a similar effect.

To increase efficiency, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and combined oral contraceptives can be combined. Vitamin E also has a positive effect. Not so long ago, antispasmodic drugs were actively used to treat pain. Now their use is not so popular.

Summarizing all of the above, we can state that drug therapy for primary dysmenorrhea consists of:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Tamipul, Naproxen, etc.).
• Antispasmodic drugs (No-shpa, Spazmalgon).
• Combined oral contraceptives or preparations containing gestagens.
• Calming drugs - tranquilizers (Relanium).
• Homeopathic medicines (Remens, Menalgin).
• Vitamin E.

To avoid the development of unwanted side effects and complications, the attending physician must determine what should be taken for painful periods.

Non-drug therapy

An excellent effect in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea gives psychotherapy. Special relaxation and distraction techniques help to successfully cope with painful periods. Especially recommended for teenagers and young girls. Various physiotherapeutic procedures are also actively used as non-drug therapy. The following types of physiotherapy are most popular:

• Reflexology.
• Amplipulse therapy.
• Magnetotherapy.
• diadynamic currents.
• Electrosleep.
• Ultrahigh frequency therapy.
• Ultraviolet irradiation in erythemal doses.
• Balneotherapy.

Physical methods of influencing the female body help to normalize the regulation of the menstrual cycle, reduce the inflammatory process in the reproductive system, improve peripheral blood circulation (microcirculation) and stimulate reproductive function. However, there are situations when most physiotherapy procedures cannot be used in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. Among the main contraindications are:

1. Acute inflammatory pathology of the uterus and appendages.
2. Endometriosis.
3. Malignant tumors.
4. Serious diseases of the central nervous system.
5. anemic syndrome.

If you do not find out the reason why menstruation is very painful on the first, second or any other day, the symptoms will recur.

ethnoscience

Often, many girls and women with painful periods, which are of a permanent nature, resort to treatment with folk remedies. However, do not forget that the independent use of folk remedies in the treatment of primary or secondary dysmenorrhea without the knowledge of the attending physician often ends in serious complications. Solely for reference, we list several recipes of traditional medicine that can help with pain during menstruation:

• Celery infusion. Half a teaspoon of celery seeds is poured into a glass of boiled water. Insist for 9 hours. Use an infusion of celery seeds in a tablespoon four times a day for half an hour before meals.
• Strawberry leaves. Half a tablespoon of a medicinal plant is poured into 200 ml of boiled water. It is necessary to let it brew for 8 hours. At the end of the term, the infusion of strawberry leaves is filtered. Take 100 ml twice a day. If you cook a decoction, then it is boiled over low heat for half an hour.
• Calendula. To prepare the infusion, we take a medicinal plant at the rate of 3 tablespoons per 500 ml of boiling water. Leave the container with the solution for 120 minutes in a dark place. An infusion of calendula is used to wash the vagina (douching) three times a day. The course of treatment can last up to 5 days.
• Melissa. In a glass of boiled water, put 2 tablespoons of chopped lemon balm leaves. The infusion process should last at least two hours. Drink an infusion of lemon balm should be 100 ml three times a day.

1. Adjust your daily work/rest/sleep schedule.
2. Go for a balanced diet. During menstruation, easily digestible and vitamin-rich foods should prevail.
3. Control your weight. Sudden weight loss or weight gain adversely affects menstrual function.
4. It is advisable to regularly take vitamin and mineral complexes.
5. Do not get carried away with strong coffee and tea.
6. Learn to deal effectively with stressful situations and emotional stress.
7. Walk outdoors more often.
8. Adhere to the optimal motor mode. Physical activity is selected taking into account the age and general condition of the girl.
9. Bad habits (smoking, alcohol) negatively affect the female body. By switching to a healthy lifestyle, you will create serious prerequisites for improving the functioning of all organs and systems, including the reproductive one.

If the form of dysmenorrhea (primary or secondary) is not defined, prolonged use of painkillers and tranquilizers is strongly discouraged.