Dysmenorrhea falls into two categories: primary dysmenorrhea, also known as functional dysmenorrhea, often occurs during the period following menarche and is more common in unmarried or married women who have not yet given birth. Symptoms may lessen or disappear after vaginal delivery. The other type, known as secondary dysmenorrhea, is frequently caused by conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Five common conditions causing secondary dysmenorrhea:
① Endometriosis: Predominantly affects women aged 28–40, occurring when endometrial tissue implants outside the uterus.Influenced by ovarian hormones, it proliferates and bleeds. Since menstrual blood cannot flow out, it irritates surrounding tissues, triggering uterine muscle contractions or tissue fibrosis, leading to dysmenorrhea. The pain persists longer (possibly throughout the entire menstrual period or post-menstruation), unlike typical dysmenorrhea that occurs only before menstruation. If lower abdominal pain occurs after menstruation ends, it is a classic sign of endometriosis.
② Adenomyosis: Commonly seen in women over 40, multiparous women, and those with multiple abortions or curettage procedures.
③ Cervical or Intrauterine Adhesions: Often observed in patients with repeated abortions or endometrial tuberculosis.
④ Chronic Pelvic Inflammation: Persistent lower abdominal pain radiating to the lower back, sometimes accompanied by anal heaviness.⑤ Reproductive tract anomalies: Mechanical obstructions like excessive uterine anteversion or vaginal septum impede menstrual flow, causing blood accumulation and inducing dysmenorrhea. Dietary remedies for dysmenorrhea relief 1. Black fungus and red date tea Boil 30g black fungus and 20 red dates together. Drink the decoction daily.Take once daily continuously. Functions to tonify the middle energizer, invigorate qi, nourish blood, and stop bleeding. Mainly treats excessive menstrual bleeding due to qi deficiency.Take 15-30g twice daily. Substitute with vinegar if intolerant to alcohol. Functions to soothe the liver and regulate qi. Mainly treats irregular menstrual timing, normal menstrual color, smooth flow without clots, and breast/lower abdominal distension and pain.
3. Hawthorn and Safflower Wine
30g hawthorn, 15g safflower, 250g white wine. Soak herbs in wine for one week. Take 45–30g twice daily, adjusting dosage based on tolerance to avoid intoxication.Function: Promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis. Indications: Scanty menstrual flow with dark purple blood and clots, abdominal pain that eases after clot expulsion. Avoid cold foods and exposure to cold. 4. Strong Tea with Brown Sugar Drink Tea leaves and brown sugar, each in appropriate amounts. Brew a bowl of strong tea, strain out leaves, dissolve brown sugar, and drink. Once daily.Function: Clears heat and regulates menstruation. Indicated for heavy menstrual flow occurring before the expected period. 5. Hawthorn and Brown Sugar Drink 50g raw hawthorn pulp, 40g brown sugar. Decoct hawthorn in water, strain, dissolve brown sugar in the liquid, and drink hot. Non-pregnant individuals may take multiple doses to induce menstrual flow. Function: Promotes blood circulation and regulates menstruation. Indicated for irregular menstrual cycles.