Why does it not hurt when lying down during menstrual cramps?

Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on February 19, 2025
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Dysmenorrhea is generally caused by a cold uterus or catching a cold, which can be alleviated by lying down to press and shape the abdomen, thus reducing the pain. During menstruation, it is important to rest more and avoid vigorous activities, getting cold, and consuming raw, cold, or spicy foods which are irritating. Do not drink cold water, but use a hot water bottle to apply heat to the abdomen. One can seek treatment in hospitals or Traditional Chinese Medicine clinics for a diagnosis to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis through medication. During menstruation, women should not take baths or cold showers as it can easily harm physical and mental health, and it is also important to maintain vaginal cleanliness and hygiene. Additionally, attention should be given to getting more rest and eating nutritious foods.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat dysmenorrhea?

If menstrual pain is severe, initial treatment can often include heat therapy, such as using a hot water bottle or applying a warm bottle to the abdomen, and soaking feet in warm water. Heat therapy generally provides quick relief from the spasm of smooth muscles, and alleviates pain. Menstrual pain is primarily caused by the contraction and spasm of smooth muscles. In severe cases, painkillers may be necessary, but they can potentially harm the stomach and have other side effects, so they are generally not the first choice. To manage menstrual symptoms, it is important to keep warm before and during the menstrual period, avoid getting chilled, maintain regular exercise, and work on improving overall physical health.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Why does adenomyosis cause dysmenorrhea?

Patients with adenomyosis primarily exhibit significant dysmenorrhea as a clinical symptom, which is related to the pathological factors of the disease. The cause of adenomyosis is the ectopic placement of the endometrial tissue into the muscular layer and glands of the uterus. Due to this displacement, with each menstrual period, the changes in the body's estrogen levels affect the ectopic endometrial tissue, causing the production of substances similar to menstrual blood. This results in the enlargement of the uterine cavity and the hardening of the uterus, contributing to the pathologic types of adenomyosis and resulting in painful menstruation. It is recommended that patients with adenomyosis seek medical examination and treatment at a hospital.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can you soak your feet if you have menstrual cramps?

Soaking your feet can help with menstrual cramps, as long as the menstrual flow is not too heavy. You can add some Chinese herbal medicine to the footbath, or just use plain warm water. Soaking your feet helps to activate blood circulation and can relieve menstrual cramps, which are often caused by smooth muscle spasms related to being chilled. Getting chilled often leads to spasms and increased pain in smooth muscles. You can soak your feet for an extended period as long as the water temperature is not too hot. Additionally, applying a hot water bottle directly to the abdomen can also be quite effective. Generally, it's best to avoid using painkillers directly, as medications can be harsh on the stomach and have other side effects.

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Written by Li Li Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does it take for ibuprofen to work for menstrual pain?

Dysmenorrhea refers to lower abdominal pain and a sense of heaviness around or during the menstrual period, accompanied by back pain or other discomforts. If dysmenorrhea occurs, taking ibuprofen can relieve the symptoms significantly within about 20 to 30 minutes. Drinking a bowl of hot brown sugar water during menstruation can also promote smoother menstrual flow and relieve pain. During menstruation, it is advisable to eat less spicy and stimulating food, as well as fewer cold fruits, vegetables, etc., and to maintain appropriate rest. Consume more warm foods and supplement with high-protein, high-calorie diets.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Does dysmenorrhea affect pregnancy?

Whether dysmenorrhea affects pregnancy cannot be generalized. Dysmenorrhea can be divided into primary dysmenorrhea, which is physiological, and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to cases where there are no pathological changes in the female reproductive organs, and the pain is solely due to uterine contractions during menstruation, commonly seen in adolescent girls. Moreover, conditions such as adenomyosis, severe uterine fibroids, and endometriosis can also cause pain and are associated with changes in the uterus, which can affect pregnancy. However, primary, functional dysmenorrhea generally does not impact the ability to conceive. Thus, whether dysmenorrhea affects pregnancy depends on the specific circumstances.