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Understanding Painful Menses
Dysmenorrhea is a debilitating condition that affects countless women. For many of us, growing up with painful menses was considered unfortunate, and I was told I just had to live with them. It wasn’t until I received Chinese medicine treatment that I found relief, and I want to share that knowledge with you.
There are two types of Dysmenorrhea: primary, which occurs in teenage girls during the first years of menstruation, and secondary, which is associated with conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or infections. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including lower back pain, nausea, and vomiting. Western treatments often include medication or hormonal contraceptives, but TCM offers an alternative approach.
TCM Perspective on Painful Menses
In TCM, we focus on the root causes, which could be external pathogens like cold and damp, diet, emotional stress, or overwork. These factors influence the TCM patterns of Dysmenorrhea, which fall into excess and deficiency categories.
Excess Patterns
- Qi and Blood Stagnation
- Internal Cold
- Damp Heat
- Liver Qi Stagnation Turning into Fire
These patterns present with symptoms such as stabbing pain, abdominal discomfort, and variances in menstrual blood appearance. Each has unique treatment strategies involving specific acupuncture points and herbal formulas.
Deficiency Patterns
- Qi and Blood Deficiency
- Spleen Yang Deficiency with Liver Blood Deficiency
- Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency
Unlike excess patterns, these usually cause dull pain and manifest towards the end of the menstrual cycle. They require warming and nourishing treatments to relieve symptoms.
Treatment Options for Painful Menses
TCM provides a holistic approach with acupuncture and herbal formulas tailored to address both excess and deficiency patterns. Key acupuncture points for pain relief include Spleen 8 and Kidney 5, which can be combined with diet and lifestyle changes. Incorporating ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon teas into one’s diet can also enhance treatment benefits.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Nutritional support is crucial. Avoiding inflammatory foods like alcohol, sugar, and processed food is recommended. Instead, focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and nuts. Additional activities like yoga, tai chi, and meditation can further alleviate stress and support overall well-being.
Additional Treatments for Painful Menses
Incorporating ear acupuncture and practices like the Plum Blossom technique can enhance acupuncture treatments and prepare the body before the period begins. Gentle exercises and forest bathing can also contribute to reducing symptoms of Dysmenorrhea.
Disclaimer
The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. As well as users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.
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