Dysmenorrhea is the pain associated with menstruation. Approximately 50% of menstruating
women live with this disorder, and about 10% of those are incapacitated for several days
each period. It usually begins just before or right at the start of menarche. The pain of
dysmenorrhea, or cramps, can be from pelvic inflammation, excessive
fluid in the pelvis, or severe spasmodic dysmenorrhea accompanied by the passage of a cast
or partial cast of the uterine cavity. Most women complain of the pain being located in the
lower abdomen, but many also feel it deeply in the lower back and thighs. Occasionally,
cramps are accompanied by nausea, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
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Dysmenorrhea
hile
dysmenorrhea is common among most menstruating women, there are
steps that can be taken to relieve the discomfort and pain. Using a calendar, keep track
of your periods by marking the first day of each period. The week before your period begins,
it is a good idea to eat moderately and try to limit your intake of salt. This helps reduce
water retention, bloating, and headaches. Keeping active, especially during the first few
days, is helpful, as is resting with your feet up, taking warm baths, and using a heating
pad on your abdomen. Additionally, many herbs are available to alleviate pain, swelling,
water retention, and other symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
Cramp Bark is the best
herb for menstrual cramps as it relaxes the smooth muscle tissue. Taken at the first sign
of symptoms, it is effective in reducing cramping.
Chamomile, an antispasmodic,
has proven to relax the muscles and bring relief from pain, as does
Dong Quai. The
constituents in Dong Quai stimulate the central nervous system, helping to relieve some
symptoms of menstrual disorders, such as cramps, lower back aches, bloating, and irritability.
Chaste Tree Berry
is also helpful as it stimulates hormones during menstruation, thereby relieving
some symptoms of PMS. Other useful herbs are
Juniper, which stimulates
the uterine wall, Red
Raspberry, Maca Root,
and Nettles.
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