A considerable number of unmarried women often experience discomfort such as intermittent lower abdominal pain, weakness in the waist and knees, and general fatigue before each menstrual period, which is a particularly distressing condition known as dysmenorrhea. Why do these symptoms occur during menstruation? It is mainly because the cervix of adolescent females is relatively narrow and long or not fully developed, and the flow of menstrual blood through this area stimulates the uterine muscles to contract.
Although dysmenorrhea in the vast majority of women is a physiological phenomenon, the intense stimulation of pain often makes it difficult for them to sit or lie down and disrupts their sleep. A solution proposed by an American obstetrics and gynecology expert can help you alleviate the pain: drinking a cup of warm milk with a spoonful of honey before bed every night can relieve or even eliminate the suffering from dysmenorrhea.
Why do these two ordinary foods have such a remarkable effect? It turns out to be thanks to two minerals: potassium and magnesium. Milk is rich in potassium, while honey is a "rich mine" for magnesium. Research shows that potassium is extremely important for the conduction of nerve impulses, the blood clotting process, and the function of all cells in the human body. It can stabilize mood, suppress pain, prevent infection, and reduce menstrual blood loss. Magnesium helps maintain normal levels of neurotransmitters in the brain and has a neurohormonal effect. In the later stages of menstruation, magnesium can also play a psychological regulatory role, helping the body relax, eliminate tension, and reduce stress.
Another strategy to combat dysmenorrhea is to rely on the power of vitamins. Of particular note is the significant therapeutic effect of B vitamins on premenstrual tension (PMT), among which vitamin B6 is the most important. This vitamin can stabilize mood, aid sleep, boost energy, and alleviate abdominal pain. It is found in relatively high amounts in bananas, so women with dysmenorrhea might consider eating more of them.
If any of the following situations occur, it cannot be resolved by just a few foods, and you should see a doctor promptly:
Over 25 years old or married, especially those who have given birth, with severe dysmenorrhea that is unbearable without treatment.
Dysmenorrhea has gradually lessened but has recently worsened, possibly indicating a retroverted uterus or other ailments.
Body temperature rises during menstruation, even with a high fever, which should raise the possibility of endometritis.
The menstrual period is too long or too short (normally 3-7 days), or the amount of bleeding is excessive, generally requiring 6-8 sanitary pads per day.
Liver-like clumps appear in the menstrual blood, and are larger than a little finger, which should raise suspicion of serious diseases such as uterine fibroids.
The lower abdominal pain becomes more pronounced as the menstrual period approaches but disappears on the first day of menstruation, which is a manifestation of premenstrual tension.
Normal menstrual blood is dark red, containing old blood, mucus, and shed endometrial tissue in clumps. If the menstrual blood is light tea-colored or has a changed odor, seek medical attention and treatment promptly.