Dysmenorrhea means painful periods or menstrual cramps cycle that affects general health.
• Dysmenorrhea is the official medical term for menstrual or period cramps caused by repetitive uterine contractions during a woman’s menstrual cycle. Secondary Dysmenorrhea is due to a reproductive disorder.
• Dysmenorrhoea is a common gynaecological condition that is physiologically caused by the production of uterine prostaglandins as menstruation begins where it stimulate myometrial contractions and ischaemia, with the highest levels during the First two (2) days of menstruation.
Categories of Dysmenorrhoea Based on Pathophysiology
1) Primary dysmenorrhoea
2) Secondary dysmenorrhoea
1) Primary Dysmenorrhoea
1) Primary Dysmenorrhoea is Menstrual pain without organic diseases, but caused by raised levels of prostaglandins. Primary Dysmenorrhea is unrelated to any definable pelvic lesion but ussually associated with Nausea in 50% of patients, Vomiting in 25% of patients, and increased stool frequency in 35% of patients.
• Onset shortly after menarche.
• Lower pelvic or abdominal pain is usually associated with onset of menstrual flow and lasts 8-72 hours.
• Back and thigh pain, headache, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting may be present.
• No abnormal findings on examination.
• Caused by raised levels of prostaglandins.Treatments of Primary Dysmenorrhoea
• Using pain-relieving medication such as Paracetamol, Aspirin, and Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) treatments work by reducing the activity of cyclo-oxgenase pathways, thus inhibiting prostaglandin production.
• Applying heat, such as a hot water bottle, to the abdomen.
• Oral contraceptives work by inhibiting ovulation.
• Levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine system prevent the thickening of the uterus lining.
• 100 mg of thiamine (vitamin B1) taken daily may be an effective cure for dysmenorrhoea (at a rate of 87% of patients cured for up to two [2] months after treatment).
• 100 mg of Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and magnesium reduce period pain and a lower prostaglandins in the blood.
2) Secondary Dysmenorrhoea
2) Secondary Dysmenorrhoea is Menstrual pain associated with an identifiable diseases such as Endometriosis, fibroids (myomas), adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, pelvic inflammatory disease and intrauterine Contraceptive device (IUD) use. Secondary Dysmenorrhea is related to the presence of pelvic lesions associated with organic pelvic disease, such as Endometriosis, salpingitis (pelvic inflammatory disease [PID]), and postsurgical adhesions.
• Onset can occur at any time after menarche (typically after 25 years of age).
• Women may complain of change in time of pain onset during menstrual cycle or in intensity of pain.
• Other gynaecological symptoms (such as dyspareunia, menorrhagia) may be present.
• Pelvic abnormality on physical examination.
• Caused by endometriosis (movement of the uterus cells lining to other areas of the pelvis causing severe pain during periods), fibroids (benign tumours made of muscle and tissue can grow inside the uterus and are thought to be affected by the sex hormones) or adenomyosis (the presence of endometrial cells growing in the muscle layers of the uterus).Treatments of Secondary Dysmenorrhoea
• Endometriosis is treated through hormone therapy, surgery or a combination of both.
• Fibroids is treated through medication to shrink the fibroids, surgical removal of the fibroid, MRI and ultrasound (locates and destroy the fibroid tissue) or arterial embolisation (sand-like particles are injected into the artery to block the blood supply to the fibroid causing it to gradually death).
• Adenomyosis is treated through hysterectomy (surgically removing the whole of the body of the uterus and cervix).
Reproductive System Diseases
1) Fibrocystic Mastopathy
2) Dysmenorrhea
3) Sexual Impotence
4) Prostatic Adenoma (Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy)
5) Fibroids
Causes of Dysmenorrhea
• Organic and hormonal causes.
• Diet & Phytoestrogens (substances that act as hormones) in legumes, soy and its derivatives can help regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Menstrual cycle.
• Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS, a disorder experienced days prior to menstruation) and its characteristics of fluid retention (particularly in the breasts) and changes in mood.
• Anemia.
• Increase in obesity.
• Chronic illness.
• Overwork.
• Stress in general.
• Diabetes.
• Poor nutrition.
Symptoms of Dysmenorrhoea
• Pain which starts when the period starts (or earlier) in the lower abdomen that can spread to the lower back and legs.
• The first 24 hours may be the most painful.
• Blood clots may be passed in the menstrual blood.
• Headaches.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Digestive problems (such as diarrhoea or constipation).
• Fainting.
• Premenstrual symptoms (such as tender breasts and a swollen abdomen, which may continue throughout the period).
Home Remedies for Dysmenorrhea
• In general, all Vegetable oils rich in PolyunSaturated Fatty Acids (Corn (Maize), Soybean, Grape seed, Wheat Germ, etc.) are beneficial.
• Primrose oil and fish oil, taken as dietary supplements can reduce cramping and uterine pain.
• Increase intake of Soybean, Fiber, Magnesium, Flavonoids, Artichoke, Celery, Eggplant, Borage, Cauliflower, red Mombin, green bean, Apple, Peach, Melon, Loquat, Pear, Watermelon, and Grape.
• Decrease intake of salts, sugars and Stimulant beverages.
Dysmenorrhea Treatment Actions
Dysmenorrhea Treatment Actions
• Anti-Spasmodics ease the muscle spasms that are the immediate cause of pain.
• Nervines will help associated psychological tension or Anxiety.
• Diuretic remedies are indicated if Dysmenorrhea is of a congestive nature, accompanied by Water retention.
• Uterine Tonics provide the basis for any healing work in this body system.
• Hormonal Normalizers are indicated if the diagnosis suggests that hormonal imbalance is making a pivotal contribution.
Specific Remedies for Dysmenorrhea
Prescription for Dysmenorrhea
• Black Haw (1 part)
• Skullcap (1 part)
• Black Cohosh (1 part)
Dosage: 5 ml of tincture as needed
Actions Supplied by Prescription for Dysmenorrhea
• Anti-Spasmodic (Black Haw, Skullcap, Black Cohosh)
• Nervine (Black Haw, Skullcap, Black Cohosh)
• Uterine Tonic (Black Cohosh)
Prescription for Dysmenorrhea Associated with Pelvic Lesions
• Black Haw (1 part)
• Wild Yam (1 part)
• Black Cohosh (1 part)
Dosage: 5 ml of tincture three times a day
Actions Supplied by Prescription for Dysmenorrhea with Pelvic Lesions
• Anti-Spasmodic (Black Haw, Wild Yam, Black Cohosh)
• Nervine (Black Haw, Black Cohosh)
• Uterine Tonic (Black Cohosh)
Internal Remedies for Menstrual Problems (Menorrhagia, Leucorrhoea and Dysmenorrhoea)
• Red Amaranth – Red Amaranth Root Infusion.
• Apple Tree – Apple Tree Bark Decoction.
• Asoka Tree – Asoka Tree Bark Decoction.
• Carrot – Carrot.
• Cluster Fig – Cluster Fig Ripe Fruit Decoction.
• Cotton Seeds – Cotton Seeds Infusion.
• Fire-Flame Bush – Fire-Flame Bush Flowers Infusion.
• Flame of the Forest – Flame of the Forest Flowers Decoction.
Food Remedies for Dysmenorrhea
Alfalfa
Alfalfa Sprouts
Arame (Seaweed)
Blackstrap Molasses
Cashew Nuts
Cowpeas
Dill
Ginger
Hemp Seeds
Licorice
Linseed
Mangosteen
Olive Oil
Parsley
Pistachio Nuts
Pomegranate Leaves
Pumpkin Leaves
Schizandra
Soybean
Teff Grain
Turmeric
Wheat Grass
• Alfalfa – Alfalfa has been used to treat atherosclerosis, heart disease, Stroke, Cancer, Diabetes, and menopausal symptoms. Alfalfa is very effective in minimizing the symptoms and pain associated with menstruation in women, due to its estrogenic properties.
• Alfalfa Sprouts – Alfalfa Sprout‘s high levels of Vitamin K and Phytoestrogens, can help women minimize symptoms related to Menopause and menstruation. Vitamin K (a blood-clotting vitamin) can help with excessive bleeding. The combination of Vitamin K and Phytoestrogens has an effect on regulating estrogen, which could help minimize PMS and symptoms of Menopause.
• Arame Seaweeds – Arame can help to regulate women Hormones because it is rich in Iodine, thereby beneficial against ovary cysts, PMS symptoms or heavy periods. Iodine (abundant in Arame) is an essential nutrient for Hormone production and normal Thyroid function (Thyroid Research).
• Blackstrap Molasses – Blackstrap Molasses is a good source of Iron which women need more Iron than men especially for blood and to relieves PMS symptoms such as poor mood, bad sleep, low Energy levels and a lack of motivation. Essential Minerals in Blackstrap Molasses, such as Magnesium, Manganese and Calcium, prevent the clotting of blood, relieves Menstrual cramps and maintains the health of uterine muscles.
• Cashew Nuts – Cashew nuts is rich in the mineral Magnesium, which is recommended for spasms in hollow organs such as the uterus (Dysmenorrhea).
• Cowpea – The infusion of Cowpea seeds and crushed roots treats Amenorrhea, painful menstruation and Dysmenorrhea.
• Dill – Dill has been used to increase Menstrual flow and supports healthy menstruation.
• Ginger – Ginger relieves Menstrual cramp. Its also effective in relieving Menstrual cramps after 2 months of treatment as mefenamic acid (an aspirin-type painkiller).
• Hemp Seeds – Hemp Seed oil is 2% GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), a good omega-6 oil known to be a necessary building block for some prostaglandins (Hormone-like substances that play a key role in helping the body function smoothly), and supplementation is necessary for proper Hormone health, which is probably why it is very helpful for many women suffering from PMS.
• Licorice – Licorice root extract and Licorice produces mild estrogenic effects as it contains powerful anti-oxidants and Phytoestrogens that can perform some of the functions of the body’s natural estrogens and has been proven useful in supporting the Stress of Menopause and menstruation. Glabradin (a Flavonoid which functions as a Phytoestrogen) contributes to numerous Licorice root benefits. Licorice is shown to be better than Hormone replacement therapy at reducing the duration of hot flAshes (Health Care for Women International study).
• Flaxseed/Linseed – Flaxseed is effective as Hormone replacement therapy in reducing mild menopausal symptoms in menopausal women because of the Lignans.
• Mangosteen – A decoction made of Mangosteen roots is used for regulating menstruation.
• Olive Oil – Olives looks like the ovaries in structure and they help in the health and function of the ovaries.
• Parsley – It has been used in traditional medicine to stimulate menstruation as it is believed to help balance Hormones (important for fertility and preventing symptoms of PMS).
• Pistachio Nuts – For Women Health, Pistachios nuts are beneficial for those with period problems and are a good option as being especially rich in Vitamin B6, which is important for keeping Hormones balanced and healthy.
• Pomegranate – Pomegranate is the Fruiting ovary of the Pomegranate plant, contains potent plant estrogens which do not stimulate unregulated cell proliferation, and may function as an ideal back up ovary for women’s Hormone health.
• Pumpkin Leaves – Manganese, found in Pumpkin Leaf can be useful to reduce premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is manifest in mood swings, Depression and irritability. Women who suffer from severe PMS symptoms are advised to consume Manganese supplements as well as Manganese rich foods.
• Schizandra – .
• Soybean – During Menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly. Soybean and its derivatives (Tofu, Soybean flour, Soybean Milk or beverage and Protein extract) helps women maintain hormonal balance because of its Isoflavones (Vegetable estrogens). Isoflavones are able to bind to estrogen receptor cells, so the body doesn’t feel as though it is going through such a dramatic decrease. Isoflavones which are essential components of the female Reproductive System and are plentiful in Soybean, helps in the regulation of Menstrual cycle especially in pre-menopausal women. Modestly decreases hot flAshes in some menopausal women.
• Teff Grain – Teff Grain has Anti-Inflammatory and Menstrually soothing agent that help reduce the severity of heavy Menstrual flow, severe cramping, or other physical manifestations of the monthly event.
• Turmeric – Turmeric is used to regulate menstruation.
• Wheat Grass – Wheat Grass‘s abundance of Vitamins and Minerals (particularly of Magnesium and Niacin) helps ease Menstrual pains (irregular and painful Menstrual cycles) (American Journal of Clinical nutrition, 1981).
Herbal Remedies for Dysmenorrhea
Black Cohosh
Black Haw
Calendula
Catnip
Cat’s Claw
Chaste Tree
Dong Quai
Feverfew
Lady’s Mantle
Milk Thistle
Mistletoe
Mugwort
Oregano
Passionflower
Skullcap
Small Herbal Bitters
Tarragon
Valerian Root
Wild Yam
Yarrow
Yellow Dead Nettle
• Black Cohosh – It may decrease the size of Uterine Fibroids by up to 30% on postmenopausal women. It can help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Its beneficial to women as they experience age-related declines in estrogen levels (a key factor in the development of menopausal symptoms). Its sometimes touted as a natural alternative to Hormone replacement therapy.
• Black Haw – It treat Dysmenorrhea (the painful menstruation where uterus contract when the uterine lining sheds as menstruation and pain can be felt to lower abdomen and lower back, in vulva and radiating down the thighs).
• Calendula – Calendula Marigold is often used to help reduce pain during menstruation and to regulate Menstrual bleeding as it has a mild estrogenic action.
• Catnip – Its leaves decoction can be beneficial to menstruating women by promoting Menstrual flow and relieving stomach cramps.
• Cat’s Claw – .
• Chaste Tree – Chaste Tree appear to reduce the intensity of premenstrual symptoms (such as Bloating, irritability, Headaches) and Skin problems once taken daily for three (3) Menstrual cycles.
• Dong Quai – Dong Quai is an ideal Uterine Tonic herb for Women Health conditions, helping to regulate menstruation (for women with heavy menstruation who risk becoming anemic), relieves period pain and cramps, and helps infertility.
• Feverfew – Its quite beneficial for the reduction of discomfort (cramps, Bloating, hormonal swings, pain, and excessive bleeding) during menstruation by efficiently lowering inflammation, eliminating cramps, and inducing calm to reduce mood swings and Anxiety.
• Lady’s Mantle – Lady’s Mantle is a cure-all for all female disorders. Lady’s Mantle is beneficial for Menstrual Disorders, abdominal disorders and indisposition during Menopause. Lady’s Mantle together with Shepherd’s Purse, helps in prolapse of the uterus and in Hiatus Hernia. Use 4 cups of Lady’s Mantle tea in Hiatus Hernia case.
• Milk Thistle – .
• Mistletoe – It is excellent for hormonal imbalance. In this case at least 2 cups a day, one in the morning and one in the evening, are sipped. Mistletoe tea normalizes circulation and brings uterine and Menstrual Disorders into equilibrium (heavy menstruation and bleeding after confinement), Palpitations of The Heart, and difficulties in breathing, hot Flushes and feelings of Anxiety during Menopause. The fresh juice of Mistletoe, 25 drops in Water on an empty stomach before Breakfast and 25 drops in Water in the evening before going to bed will remedy barrenness in woman.
• Mugwort – Mugwort herb is used to stimulate irregular or suppressed menstruation (very useful for Menstrual pain and cramps) and ease menstruation.
• Oregano – Use Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol which is beneficial for Menstrual cramps relief as they relaxes uterine muscles to prevent painful contractions (cramps) during mensuration.
• Passionflower – .
• Skullcap – Skullcap infusions relaxes nervous tension and is particularly useful for Menstrual tension and hysteria.
• Small Herbal Bitters – If the Menstrual flow ceases for a woman or it is too heavy, she takes Swedish Bitters drops 3 days and repeats it 20 times. This remedy also helps to cure whites (white vaginal discharge). For Morning Sickness, 1 tablespoon of the drops in Red Wine is given in the morning for 3 days, half an hour later a walk is taken, then Breakfast, but no Milk.
• Tarragon – Tarragon is able to regulate Menstrual cycle, and alleviate pre-menstrual symptoms (PMS).
• Valerian Root – Valerian root as an Emmenagogue and anti-spasmodic is an excellent choice for Menstrual cramps & discomfort, and irritability caused by pre-menstral syndrome (PMS) as it stimulates Menstrual flow.
• Wild Yam – Its has Anti-Spasmodic property and Anti-Inflammatory action against joints, uterus and ovaries, thus useful for reducing cramps and muscular pain related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• Yarrow – Yarrow is a Medicinal Herb for women as it is beneficial for the Reproductive organs of women. Women could be spared many troubles, if they just took Yarrow tea from time to time. Be it a young girl with irregular menstruation or an older woman during Menopause or already past it. Yarrow is a beneficial medicinal herb for the Reproductive organs of women as it contains salicylic acid (a compound like the active ingredient in aspirin) and a volatile oil with Anti-Inflammatory properties, making it useful to relieve pain associated with gynecologic conditions. Yarrow sitz bath is useful for painful, lower pelvic, cramp-like conditions in women.
• Yellow Dead Nettle – White Dead Nettle tea is beneficial in abdominal and Menstrual complaints, if 2 cups are sipped during the day.