Management of Menstrual Pain or Dysmenorrhea

Management of Menstrual Pain or Dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea or menstrual pain or cramps is discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen before and during menstrual periods. For some women it is easily manageable but for few it’s severe enough to interfere with day-to-day activities. Now a days it’s one of the most prevalent gynaecological problems in young women and teenagers.

Most of the time the pain is mild but, in some people, it comes with other symptoms including headache, nausea, leg pain, backache, generalized aching etc. and management of it varies according to its cause and symptoms.

Dysmenorrhea is classified into:

1. Primary Dysmenorrhea: The pain starts before and during the periods and tends to lessen after the lining of the uterus is shed. It is not associated with other demonstrable pathology in the reproductive organs.
2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea: In this, the pain is caused by a pathological condition which is related to reproductive organs. In this case treating the underlying disease is very important.

Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common gynaecological concerns among most people regardless of age. A detailed history including the location of the pain, duration, or associated symptoms can help in diagnosis. Most of the time, primary Dysmenorrhea is diagnosed based on the history alone. In case of secondary Dysmenorrhea, proper evolution and diagnosis of underlying disease is very important to treat the case.

How do we treat it in Ayurveda?

The treatment involves patient education, reassurance, supportive therapy, and medical management depending upon the cause and symptoms. Ayurveda considers Dysmenorrhea as Kashtaartava which means painful menstruation which is a Vata pradhana disease. Apana vata is situated in the pelvic floor and vitiation of this vata leads to painful menstruation.

The management of Dysmenorrhea is the correction of apana vata vitiation with the combination of therapies, herbs, exercise and diet etc. Panchakarma therapy is effective in all types of gynaecological disorders.

Doing Yoga, Pranayama, meditation, regular exercise, maintaining an active lifestyle, having a balanced diet etc. are proved to be effective in relieving this condition and to prevent further reoccurrence.

Massaging with lukewarm oil (pain reliving) on the lower abdomen, followed by swedana (hot compress) helps to relieve pain during menstruation. Some beneficial herbs that strengthen the uterus and help in relieving pain are Dashamool, Shatavari, Rasna, Ashoka, Bala, Lodhra, etc.

Ayurveda focuses on the root cause of the issue and treats the entire health system in addition to the ailment. You can visit Brahmionline to obtain the best medication for your condition and body type. You can also consult any of our Ayurveda Doctors online.

Dr Mallika B.S. BAMS

Consulting Physician

Brahmionline