What is the reason for stomachache before menstruation?

Stomach pain before menstruation may be related to changes in hormone levels, increased prostaglandin secretion, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, adenomyosis and other factors. Stomach pain before menstruation usually manifests as bloating, dull or spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, which can be improved by hot compresses, medication, and diet adjustments.

1. Changes in hormone levels

The drop in estrogen and progesterone levels before menstruation may cause uterine smooth muscle contraction and pain. This physiological pain is usually mild and short-lived. It is recommended to keep the abdomen warm, avoid strenuous exercise, and drink appropriate amounts of ginger tea to help relieve discomfort.

2. Increased prostaglandin secretion

Excessive prostaglandins secreted by the endometrium will increase the intensity of uterine contractions and lead to aggravation of dysmenorrhea. Accompanying symptoms such as nausea and headache may occur. You can use ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets and other drugs to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis as directed by your doctor, but you must avoid taking the medicine on an empty stomach.

3. Endometriosis

Endometrial tissue grows ectopically in other parts of the pelvic cavity, causing progressively worsening pain during menstruation. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as painful sexual intercourse and painful defecation. The diagnosis requires laparoscopy, and norethindrone tablets, dienogest tablets and other drugs can be used to control the development of the lesions.

4. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammation caused by pathogenic infection can cause persistent dull pain in the lower abdomen before menstruation, which may be accompanied by fever and abnormal secretions. Routine leucorrhea and B-ultrasound examination are required. In the acute phase, ceftriaxone sodium for injection combined with metronidazole and sodium chloride injection should be used for anti-infective treatment.

5. Adenomyosis

Lesions caused by the invasion of the endometrium into the myometrium can cause heavy menstrual flow and severe cramping. Ultrasound examination showed uniform enlargement of the uterus and uneven echogenicity of the muscle layer. Mild cases can be treated with the levonorgestrel sustained-release intrauterine system, while severe cases require surgical procedures such as hysterectomy.

During menstruation, you should pay attention to avoid raw and cold foods, and appropriately supplement iron-rich foods such as animal liver, spinach, etc. Use a hot water bottle to apply heat to the lower abdomen for 15-20 minutes every day, and wear loose clothing to reduce abdominal compression. If the pain seriously affects your life or is accompanied by abnormal bleeding, you should go to a gynecologist in time to check for organic diseases. Recording menstrual cycles and pain characteristics can help doctors determine the cause.