Natural Treatment for Painful Periods
Did you know that research shows menstrual pain and cramps (dysmenorrhea) can be as intense as the pain of a heart attack? Despite this, the pain is often downplayed by healthcare professionals and is frequently dismissed as a "normal” part of menstruation. In the United States, it is estimated that about 50-90% of women experience some form of menstrual pain during their lifetime. Of these, approximately 20-30% experience severe pain that significantly affects their daily activities. For many women, dysmenorrhea becomes a recurring and debilitating issue.
Is It Just a "Painful Period?"
During your menstrual period, substances called prostaglandins cause the uterus to contract and expel its lining. Because prostaglandins play a role in pain and inflammation, higher levels of these substances are linked to more severe menstrual cramps.
Other factors that can contribute to painful periods are:
Early age of menarche: Starting menstruation at a young age is associated with an increased risk of dysmenorrhea.
Stress: Stress elevates cortisol and adrenaline, disrupting the hormonal balance that regulates menstrual cycles.
Family history: Dysmenorrhea can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition to the condition, though the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
Smoking: Smoking potentially decreasing oxygen to the uterus and causing vasoconstriction (blood vessel constriction), as well as potentially affecting hormones.
Poor diet: A diet lacking in certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, may contribute to dysmenorrhea, and a diet high in inflammatory foods will increase prostaglandin production.
Dysmenorrhea, however, can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem.
• Uterine abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the uterus or an abnormally shaped uterus can lead to increased uterine contractions and pain.
• Endometriosis: A condition where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and pain.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of the reproductive organs that can cause severe pain during menstruation.
• Uterine fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can press on surrounding nerves and cause pain.
• Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can cause discomfort and pain.
• Adenomyosis: A condition where the lining of the uterus grows into the uterine muscle wall, causing pain and heavy bleeding.
•Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Some women may experience increased pain or cramping after getting an IUD.
When Are Painful Periods Not “Normal”?
Dysmenorrhea can occur before, during, and even after your period. However, if the pain becomes overwhelming, persists after your period ends, or radiates to your back, thighs, or rectal area, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Other warning signs of a more serious underlying condition include painful urination, severe bloating, pain during intercourse, lower abdominal pain, pelvic discomfort, nausea, and fatigue. Intense menstrual pain may be linked to conditions such as PCOS, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. Additionally, if you have a family history of fibroids, adenomyosis, or endometriosis, your risk of developing a reproductive disorder may be higher. If your concerns are dismissed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion—or even more—until you find the right answers.
Does Acupuncture Really Help?
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offer several benefits for managing menstrual pain:
Pain Relief: Acupuncture promotes the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. These endorphins help block pain signals, effectively reducing the intensity of menstrual cramps.
Enhanced Circulation: Acupuncture improves blood circulation, including blood flow to the uterus. This enhanced circulation helps reduce inflammation, relax muscle tension, and promote the release of endorphins, which can all contribute to easing pain and discomfort during menstruation.
Hormonal Balance: Research shows that acupuncture can help regulate hormonal levels and reduce excess prostaglandins, which are responsible for uterine contractions and menstrual pain.
Stress Reduction: Stress triggers your body to release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can disrupt your hormonal balance and increase the levels of pain-causing prostaglandins.
Several studies have shown that acupuncture is effective in reducing menstrual pain. A 2010 meta-analysis in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that acupuncture was significantly more effective than a placebo in reducing pain and improving quality of life, with benefits lasting after treatment was stopped. A 2014 study in Pain Medicine also found acupuncture more effective than no treatment or placebo in reducing pain duration and intensity. Additionally, a 2017 review highlighted that acupuncture works by influencing the nervous system, uterine contractions, and inflammation. Some studies have even suggested that acupuncture may be more effective than NSAIDs like ibuprofen in managing pain, with fewer side effects, making it a viable option for those who cannot tolerate medications.
Consult Dr. Cindi Ignatovsky in Campbell, CA, to Find Relief
If you're struggling with painful periods, take charge of your health and discover how acupuncture can help alleviate your symptoms. Dr. Cindi Ignatovsky, a trusted fertility and women's health expert in Campbell, CA, has helped countless individuals find relief from painful periods, regardless of the underlying cause. Click here to schedule your consultation and experience exceptional care. •
