Why is there pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation?

During menstruation in girls, a kind of chemical is released from the tissues forming the uterus, which causes abdominal pain. At the same time, the human body produces a type of substance called prostaglandins, whose production increases during menstruation. Prostaglandins are a type of fatty compound produced in cells and are involved in various functions in the body. During menstruation, this compresses the uterus muscles and causes inflammation, resulting in lower abdominal pain. Abdominal pain is more severe in people with high levels of prostaglandins.

6 Home Remedies to Reduce Menstrual Pain

1. Warm Compress

A warm compress is great for relieving menstrual pain. Increasing blood flow to the pelvis due to warmth reduces muscle tension and alleviates pain. You can easily do this at home. Soak a towel in hot water and apply it to the lower abdomen. You can also use hot water bags available in the market. Fill the bag with hot water, wrap it with a towel, and apply it to the lower abdomen.

2. Hot Water Bath

Taking a bath with warm water can also reduce pain, similar to using a hot compress. Warm water helps relax the uterus muscles and increases blood circulation in the pelvic region, thereby reducing pain.

3. Massage

Massage helps to stretch the muscles and can reduce cramping during menstruation. Massage is usually performed on the breasts, abdomen, and pelvic area.

4. Ginger

Ginger can reduce menstrual pain. Those who experience regular menstrual pain should start consuming ginger before the onset of pain or at the beginning of menstruation. You can drink it with hot water or tea or eat ginger slices three times a day for the first 3-4 days of menstruation. Many studies have shown that ginger reduces pain without any side effects, making it a good option.

5. Exercise

A little exercise can help reduce menstrual pain. Activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, and yoga can be beneficial. Regular exercise can also reduce menstrual pain in addition to its benefits during menstruation.

6. Breathing Exercise

When experiencing pain, shallow breathing can inadvertently exacerbate it. Therefore, one of the best ways to reduce pain is through breathing exercises. Bend your back slightly, inhale through the nose, and exhale as if blowing out a candle. You can perform this breathing exercise for 5-10 minutes.

Menstrual Pain Relief Machine

A machine available in the market to reduce menstrual pain is the Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine. This small machine reduces menstrual pain using electricity and should be used in high-frequency settings. Research has shown that using the machine in this way reduces menstrual pain. You Should learn how to use it from a physiotherapist before using it at home.

What type of pain is a symptom of a disease?

It is normal to feel pain during menstruation, and almost everyone experiences it at some point. However, it can also be caused by certain diseases, such as endometriosis, PID, and fibroids. It’s important to understand when the pain is normal and when to seek medical advice.

Normal pain usually begins a few hours before or during menstruation and can last up to three days. The pain is typically felt in the lower abdomen, sometimes accompanied by lower back pain. If such pain begins within 6 months to 1 year of the start of menstruation in a girl, it is considered normal.

Pain caused by disease usually starts later on, a few years after the onset of the menstrual cycle. This pain should stop after a few days, but if it persists or worsens during subsequent menstrual periods to the extent that normal activities become difficult, medical advice should be sought.

Symptoms such as heavy bleeding during menstruation, irregular menstruation, increased pain, pain in the lower abdomen outside of the menstrual cycle, pain during sexual activity, anal pain, bleeding at any time outside of the menstrual cycle, and changes in vaginal discharge may indicate underlying issues. If experiencing these symptoms, You should consult a doctor.