Menstrual Cramps – Dysmenorrhea
Cramps are a common complaint that women may experience and report during the period. Many women find their monthly menses a painful experience. The pain varies from woman to woman with varying intensity. While some experience mild pain during the period, it is an excruciating experience for others. Many have given various reasons as the cause of menstrual cramps.
Painful menstruation, also known as dysmenorrhea, only means difficult menstruation. Monthly menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining; during this process, the uterus contracts. Women with Cramps experience painful contractions and feel pains in the lower abdomen, sometimes at the lower back and towards the thighs.
The pain experienced also includes dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pain can begin 24 hours before the start of menses and can last for 48 to 72 hours after menses begin. This experience mostly incapacitates women, so many take NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) as assistance.
It is necessary to ascertain if painful menstruation is primary Dysmenorrhea or secondary Cramps. The primary case means the experience of normal Cramps, while the secondary have other health issues responsible for the pain. Secondary Menstrual Cramps can be caused by ovarian cysts and endometriosis of uterine fibroids, which are not limited to these. Other factors such as constipation, UTI, and IBS can also be responsible, and this calls for the need to seek the help of a doctor to ascertain the cause of your pain.
Cause of dysmenorrhea
Some studies in the ‘70’s observed that women with Dysmenorrhea had a high prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2) level. PGF2 alpha is responsible for the stoppage of progesterone production in the uterus. Women with Cramps produce seven times more PGF2 alpha than women without Dysmenorrhea. When released into the blood, this high level of prostaglandin causes the uterus to spasm and be inflamed. This inflammation and cramping cause pain, and why PGF2 is high in some women is yet unknown.
Homeopathic Treatment for Cramps
There are various homeopathic remedies for the treatment of Cramps. It is necessary to consult a qualified homeopath to find a suitable treatment for each, as homeopathy thrives on the theory of individualization. Below are top homeopathic drugs but are not limited to these.
Chamomilla for dysmenorrhea
This remedy is for women with hyper-sensitive nerves that can hardly bear the pain. Such a person gets irritable quickly, and pain worsens after being angry. The pain spreads from the pelvic area to the thighs, aggravating the night while walking around, giving some relief.
Cimicifuga (Actaea Racemosa) for Menstrual Cramps
One feature of the cramps experienced in this case in which this remedy is appropriate is that it worsens as the flow increases, accompanied by neck and back pain. Pain also extends down the thigh, and such a person shows nervousness and fear when not feeling alright.
Cocculus for painful period
This remedy is suitable for women who experience dysmenorrhea, weakness, and dizziness, which can also be a headache or nausea. She may also experience numb or hollow feelings. Pain aggravates while standing, and lying down or sleeping brings much relief.
Magnesia Phosphorica for dysmenorrhea
This remedy is suitable for painful Cramps around the pelvic area that are relieved by applying pressure and warmth. The pain is usually felt more on the right side of the body, and they experience worse feelings in the cold or at night.
Belladonna for Cramps
Symptoms suitable for this remedy include sudden intense menstrual pain that comes and goes. Pain gets worse by touch but brings relief by applying gentle but steady pressure. Walking or bending posture aggravates the pain, and sitting brings some relief. A feeling of restlessness with a pounding sensation is also experienced, and such a women’s eyes are sensitive to light.
Lachesis for Painful Menstrual Cramps
This remedy suits women who experience painful cramps before the menses and get relieved when flow begins. Symptoms such as flushes of heat, sensitivity to the feel of clothes around the waist or neck, headache, and a bearing down sensation around the pelvis fall into this category. Such a person feels bottled up physically and emotionally.
Sepia for Dysmenorrhea
Sepia is recommended for painful and suppressed menstruation, aka dysmenorrhea. Such a woman feels weak around the pelvic floor, as though the uterus is sagging. The woman is overly sensitive and comfortable being in isolation temporarily. Warmth and exercise bring some relief to such a person.
Visit Philadelphia Homeopathic Clinic directed by Internationally Recognized homeopathic practitioner Victor Tsan, MD.
For homeopathic evaluation, contact us or use our automatic scheduling system.