Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Pain)

Brief Description

Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual pain, manifests as cramping or aching pain in the lower abdomen, often radiating to the lower back and thighs. It may occur before or during menstruation and is frequently accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, dizziness, or headaches. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea:

Primary Dysmenorrhea: Pain without any identifiable pelvic abnormalities, often due to uterine contractions. Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Pain caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. In TCM, dysmenorrhea is classified under "Tong Jing (痛经)" and is typically caused by imbalances in Qi and Blood, often influenced by Cold, Heat, or emotional stress. Factors like poor diet, stress, and environmental exposure to cold can exacerbate symptoms. Unlike conventional treatments that focus on symptom relief, TCM addresses both the symptoms and the underlying imbalances, promoting overall reproductive health and long-term wellness.

Common Misconceptions

  • Menstrual pain is normal: Many believe that pain is an inevitable part of menstruation, but TCM views it as a sign of imbalance that can and should be treated.
  • Painkillers are the only solution: While effective temporarily, painkillers do not address the underlying causes of dysmenorrhea and may lead to dependency.
  • Only the uterus is involved: Dysmenorrhea often reflects systemic imbalances in the Liver, Spleen, or Kidneys, requiring a holistic approach for lasting relief.
  • Cold exposure has no effect: Exposure to cold weather or consuming cold foods during menstruation can worsen symptoms by causing stagnation in the uterus.

TCM Diagnosis

Typical Tongue

Typical Pulse

Taut, tight

TCM Pathogenesis

Dysmenorrhea is caused by various patterns of imbalance, including:

Qi and Blood Stagnation: Emotional stress or physical inactivity obstructs the free flow of Qi and Blood in the uterus, leading to pain. Cold Accumulation: Exposure to cold or consuming cold foods causes Blood stagnation and severe cramping pain. Damp-Heat: Internal Damp-Heat obstructs the uterus, causing sharp pain, heavy bleeding, or clots. Qi and Blood Deficiency: Weak constitution or chronic illness leads to insufficient Qi and Blood, resulting in dull, lingering pain. Kidney and Liver Deficiency: Weakness in these organs affects the regulation of menstrual cycles and uterine health.

TCM Treatment

General Principle

Regulate Qi and Blood: Use acupuncture and herbal medicine to promote circulation and alleviate stagnation. Dispel Cold and Damp: Warm the uterus and improve blood flow to relieve cramping pain. Clear Heat: Eliminate Damp-Heat to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Nourish Qi and Blood: Strengthen the body to support reproductive health and prevent recurrence.

Unique Therapies We Apply

  • Acupuncture: Acupuncture effectively alleviates dysmenorrhea by unblocking meridians and regulating Qi and Blood flow. Key points include: Zigong (EX-CA1): Regulates the uterus and alleviates menstrual pain. San Yin Jiao (SP6): Harmonizes the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys, promoting blood flow to the uterus. Hegu (LI4): Relieves pain and promotes Qi circulation. Guanyuan (CV4): Warms the uterus and dispels Cold.
  • Herbal Formulas: Classical Jing Fang (经方) tailored to individual patterns: Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang (少腹逐瘀汤): Warms the uterus and removes stagnation. Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (桂枝茯苓丸): Resolves Blood stasis and reduces uterine masses. Ba Zhen Tang (八珍汤): Nourishes Qi and Blood for deficient patterns.
  • Moxibustion: Applied to points like Guanyuan (CV4) to warm the uterus and dispel Cold, particularly effective for Cold-induced pain.

Treatment Plan

  • Acute Phase (During Menstruation): Focus: Relieve pain, regulate Qi and Blood, and expel Cold or Dampness. Frequency: Acupuncture 2-3 times per week during menstruation; herbal medicine daily.Between Cycles: Focus: Address underlying imbalances, nourish Qi and Blood, and prevent future pain. Frequency: Acupuncture 1-2 times per week between cycles; herbal therapy continued daily.Maintenance and Prevention: Focus: Strengthen reproductive health and regulate cycles to ensure long-term relief. Frequency: Monthly acupuncture with ongoing herbal support for 1-2 months.

Precaution

  • Avoid Cold Exposure: Keep the lower abdomen warm and avoid cold or raw foods, especially during menstruation.
  • Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or Qigong to reduce Liver Qi stagnation.
  • Adopt a Balanced Diet: Include blood-nourishing foods like red dates, black sesame, and lean meats.
  • Seek Early Treatment: Address menstrual pain promptly to prevent chronic conditions.
  • Regular Care: Consistent acupuncture and herbal therapy can significantly improve symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Summary

Dysmenorrhea is a common but treatable condition that reflects deeper systemic imbalances. Traditional Chinese Medicine provides effective, natural solutions through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments. By addressing both symptoms and root causes, TCM offers comprehensive relief from menstrual pain while promoting overall reproductive health and long-term wellness.

TCM Dr. Ma

The Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment approaches outlined above are derived from my clinical experience, and I acknowledge there may be areas not fully covered or that require further refinement over time.

This content is intended to provide a learning reference for professionals and enthusiasts in Traditional Chinese Medicine and to help patients gain a better understanding of their conditions and common misconceptions.

However, I must emphasize that this information does not constitute specific treatment guidance. All TCM treatments must be tailored to the individual through thorough diagnosis by a qualified practitioner. Non-professionals should not attempt self-treatment based on this information, as any treatment conducted without professional supervision may carry potential safety risks.