Your Guide to Naturopathic Relief for Dysmenorrhea

Do you dread getting your period because it will also mean having to experience excruciating pain again? We get you!
​Dysmenorrhea is a common problem that many women assigned female at birth face every month, affecting more than 50% of those undergoing menstruation. Worse still, 10-17%  experience such severe pain that it causes them to miss 1-3 days of work or school each month! Imagine the impact this has, not just on the economy, but on your ability to accomplish your goals and show up in the world the way you want to. 

Dysmenorrhea can be divided into two subtypes: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea happens when your menstrual pain has no underlying pelvic disease, while secondary dysmenorrhea occurs due to a primary health problem. Secondary dysmenorrhea is managed by addressing the underlying health condition, but primary dysmenorrhea is a chronic issue and can be more challenging to treat.
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Understanding Primary Dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea results from problems with the tone and pattern of uterine contractions during your menstrual period. This can stem from an excessive amount of prostanoid (a type of enzyme) secreted from your uterine lining that causes dysrhythmic uterine contractions, increased pressure, and heightened tone, all of which trigger period cramps. Additionally, the drop in progesterone levels near the peak of the menstrual cycle, affects the synthesis of prostaglandin F2 (PGF2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2).1 When the uterine lining breaks down during your period, these prostaglandins are released, causing the uterus to contract and vasopressin to be released, eventually producing less blood flow (ischemia) and pain.1
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Signs and Symptoms

Period pain caused by primary dysmenorrhea usually happens a few hours before or directly after the start of your menstrual period. This painful sensation may last for 48-72 hours and is usually colicky or crampy in nature. Defining the painful feeling is very important, as primary dysmenorrhea can cause pain similar to the discomfort felt during labor, with cramping sensations on the suprapubic area (central lower abdomen). Pain may also be accompanied by lower backache that radiates to the front of the thigh. You may also experience bouts of diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. 

Allopathic Management

Primary dysmenorrhea is conventionally managed with a long-term course of non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help block excess enzyme production. However, this regimen should not be given to those with stomach/duodenal ulcers or allergies to aspirin. NSAIDs can cause nausea, weakness, headache, gastric ulcers, and diarrhea.1 Another option for those who experience painful periods and also want contraception are hormonal contraceptives, such as pills, transdermal patches, or injectables. Hormonal contraceptives work by stopping ovulation and reducing the thickening of the uterine lining. They also mimic the hormone levels found at the start of the menstrual cycle, when prostaglandin levels are at their lowest. With lower prostaglandin levels, there is less cramping in the uterus, making periods less painful. However, there are many side effects of hormonal contraception which makes this an undesirable option for many.

The Naturopathic Approach

While conventional medicine sees this as a normal state for many patients, Naturopathic Medicine views dysmenorrhea as a “common,” not a “normal” condition.

Culturally, we have come to accept painful and heavy periods, low energy, anemia, menstrual migraines, and more as par for the course. But this is not true – your periods should be painless and the flow should be light to moderate. You should have a predictable cycle with minimal to no symptoms. 
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​Botanical Medicine

• Ginger (Zingiber officinale). A staple herb in many kitchens and cultures, ginger is both a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes and powerful natural remedy for relieving pain from primary dysmenorrhea. Its pain-relieving properties can match those of medical painkillers, offering a natural alternative that doesn’t compromise on effectiveness. What sets ginger apart is its impressive safety profile.1 Unlike NSAIDs, which can lead to stomach irritation and kidney issues with prolonged use, ginger poses far fewer risks, making it an effective herbal remedy for those seeking relief minus the potential adverse effects of NSAIDs.
• Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). This herb is wonderful in that it will remind you of a crunchy version of liquorice, and at the same time help ease period cramps because it is rich in anethole, a natural ingredient that can relieve spasms.2 Interestingly, this natural wonder is more effective in relieving primary dysmenorrhea compared to the prescription NSAID mefenamic acid!2  An added benefit is that fennel is a carminative (gas-reducing) herb, so if you experience gas and bloating during your period, this may be a great option for you. It’s a tasty and easy addition to salads and roasted veggies. 
• Pineapple fruit (Ananas comosus L.). Yes, you read that right! Pineapples contain active ingredients, such as bromelain, that can help reduce cramps and irritation during periods!2 Pineapples also help with wound healing and abnormal cell growth prevention.2

And many more!

Acupuncture
Specialized acupuncture techniques can help block pain impulse through stimulating serotonin and endorphins. Additionally, acupuncture can help stimulate local nerves to release enzymes that can widen blood vessels and increase blood flow, thereby promoting oxygen delivery and relieving pain caused by ischemia (lack of blood flow) to the uterus.3 Interestingly, acupuncture can help relax smooth muscle and regulate uterine contractions, thereby relieving pain and other dysmenorrheal symptoms.

Gentle Movement
Gentle exercises help nurture mind-body connection. Yoga, in particular, helps relieve pain and stress by creating holistic changes and improvements in the body. In managing period pain, yoga helps lower down prostaglandin levels and nurture blood flow to the uterus.3
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nurturing your reproductive health

Dysmenorrhea can cause debilitating pain and discomfort during periods, which is why holistic and regular treatment regimens are important to help nurture productivity and prevent discomfort at any time of your menstrual cycle. At Natural Path to Wellness, your team of naturopathic medicine advisors will help you discover the best natural regimens for your optimal health and well-being, taking into consideration your unique body. To learn more about naturopathic care for dysmenorrhea, talk to us today!

A gentle reminder that certain herbs may be contraindicated when you have certain medical issues or medication use, or if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. It is important to remember that exploring herbal medications for your optimal health is best when guided by a naturopathic doctor to ensure the safety, regulation, and effectiveness of these natural remedies according to your unique case. 

BECOME A CLIENT

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​This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. 

Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
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REFERENCES:
1. Negi R, Sharma SK, Gaur R, Bahadur A, Jelly P. Efficacy of Ginger in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Cureus. 2021;13(3):e13743. Published 2021 Mar 6. doi:10.7759/cureus.13743
2. Goel B, Maurya NK. Overview on: Herbs use in treatment of primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps). Advances in Zoology and Botany. 2019;7(3):47-52. doi:10.13189/azb.2019.070302 
3. Shetty GB, Shetty B, Mooventhan A. Efficacy of Acupuncture in the Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Acupunct Meridian Stud. 2018;11(4):153-158. doi:10.1016/j.jams.2018.04.001
4. Kanchibhotla D, Subramanian S, Singh D. Management of dysmenorrhea through yoga: A narrative review. Front Pain Res (Lausanne). 2023;4:1107669. Published 2023 Mar 30. doi:10.3389/fpain.2023.1107669
5. Itani R, Soubra L, Karout S, Rahme D, Karout L, Khojah HMJ. Primary Dysmenorrhea: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Updates. Korean J Fam Med. 2022;43(2):101-108. doi:10.4082/kjfm.21.0103

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