Relieve Dysmenorrhea With Alternatives Of Natural Origin?
Currently, there are several treatments that help relieve dysmenorrhea. According to a post in American Family Physician , options for managing it include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and hormonal contraceptives. Also, other options such as heat application, exercise, and massage can help.
However, before choosing between one treatment or another, it is important to establish whether it is a primary dysmenorrhea, that is, menstrual pain in the absence of pelvic pathology. If there are signs of secondary dysmenorrhea, such as abnormal bleeding, non-cyclical pain, changes in the intensity and duration of pain, etc., then more studies are needed.
What is dysmenorrhea?
All women, at some point in their life, have suffered a painful period. In summary, dysmenorrhea is a complication of the menstrual cycle that results in pain before and during menstruation.
According to a publication published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information , pain associated with dysmenorrhea is caused by hypersecretion of prostaglandins and increased uterine contractility.
Although in many cases it is the secondary symptom of a gynecological problem, in most women it is a primary disease. Many times, in addition to pain, there are symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, fatigue, headaches, among others.
How can dysmenorrhea be relieved?
The first-line treatment for dysmenorrhea is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which may include aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. Oral contraceptives and sometimes hormonal treatment with progestogens are also used.
On the other hand, as detailed in a publication from the Mayo Clinic, some natural solutions such as exercising, applying local heat and taking dietary supplements can promote the feeling of relief. Similarly, it is beneficial to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and stress.
Can I relieve dysmenorrhea with natural alternatives?
To effectively relieve dysmenorrhea it is important to consult the gynecologist and receive a proper diagnosis. The professional, with the help of some tests, can determine if it is primary or secondary dysmenorrhea. In both cases, leading a healthy lifestyle can help.
However, in the case of secondary dysmenorrhea it will be necessary to follow a more specialized treatment. Therefore, it is possible to try some naturally-occurring alternatives only when dysmenorrhea is primary. These solutions can help relieve pain, although the evidence is limited.
Ginger
Naturally, ginger is one of the natural elements that has the ability to reduce the pain of dysmenorrhea. Mainly, this is due to its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
A study published in Pain Medicine concluded that 750 to 2000 mg of ginger powder during the first 3-4 days of the menstrual cycle can help relieve primary dysmenorrhea.
Cinnamon
One of the medicinal spices with the most applications is, without a doubt, cinnamon. Although there is no evidence to prove that it can be a first-line treatment against diseases, it has been shown that it can serve as an adjunct.
In the case of dysmenorrhea, it favors the relief of pain and swelling. In a study published in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal , women who took cinnamon capsules reported less bleeding, pain, nausea, and vomiting compared to the placebo group.
Chamomile to relieve dysmenorrhea
The last recommended natural remedy in case of primary dysmenorrhea is chamomile. Although its effects are moderate, it can be helpful in calming pain and swelling.
Why? According to a review published in Molecular Medicine Reports, chamomile increases urinary glycine levels, which helps relieve muscle spasms. In addition, it also helps to relax the nervous system. It can be consumed in capsules or tea.
Definitely
There are natural alternatives that can be coadjuvant in case of dysmenorrhea, but only when it is primary. Therefore, before trying any remedy, it is advisable to consult the gynecologist to determine what type of dysmenorrhea it is. Thus, we can choose an effective treatment.
