Menstrual cramps are a common condition experienced by many women. Symptoms of menstrual cramps include lower back pain, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Many women fear the arrival of their period because of the pain associated with it. Below, I will teach you some massage techniques to relieve menstrual cramps.
Causes of Menstrual Cramps in Women
1. Inadequate warmth
Many women prioritize their appearance and dress in ways that may expose them to the cold in winter. In summer, they may frequently consume cold drinks and ice cream. However, during menstruation, inadequate warmth can lead to menstrual cramps.
2. Emotional fluctuations
Many women experience emotional fluctuations before their period. By adequately preparing and maintaining a positive mood, one can alleviate menstrual cramps.
3. Drinking strong tea
Drinking strong tea or consuming foods and drinks containing caffeine can stimulate the nerves and cardiovascular system, leading to menstrual cramps, prolonged periods, and excessive bleeding. These should be avoided during menstruation.
4. Inadequate nutrition
Inadequate nutrition during menstruation or consumption of spicy foods can worsen menstrual cramps. During menstruation, women already lose a certain amount of blood, and consuming too many spicy or frozen foods before menstruation can exacerbate the pain.
Acupressure Techniques to Relieve Menstrual Cramps
1. Massage the Sea of Blood Point
The Sea of Blood Point is located on the inner side of the thigh, 2 inches above the inner end of the patella. Press the Sea of Blood Point with your thumbs overlapped.
The Sea of Blood Point can help regulate blood circulation and treat various blood-related conditions. Pressing this point can alleviate lower abdominal pain during menstruation.
2. Massage the Uterus Point
The Uterus Point is located in the lower abdomen, 4 inches below the navel. Use the index and middle fingers of both hands to press on both sides of the Uterus Point with a little force. Slowly massage the area for about 5 minutes.
The Uterus Point can regulate menstruation, relieve pain, and treat menstrual irregularities.
3. Massage the Three Yin Intersection Point
The Three Yin Intersection Point is located on the inner side of the lower leg, 3 inches above the tip of the inner ankle bone, behind the inner edge of the tibia. Use the thumb pad of your left thumb to repeatedly knead the right Three Yin Intersection Point for about 1 minute, then switch to the right thumb to press the left Three Yin Intersection Point, using the same method.
The Three Yin Intersection Point is effective for treating menstrual irregularities, excessive vaginal discharge, prolapse, infertility, and difficult childbirth.
Dietary Therapy for Menstrual Cramps in Women
1. Ginger, Jujube, and Brown Sugar Water
Recipe: 30g dried ginger, 30g jujube, 30g brown sugar. Wash the ginger and jujube, slice the ginger, remove the pit from the jujube, and simmer them with brown sugar. Drink the soup and eat the jujube.
Effect: This remedy has the effect of warming the menstrual flow and dispersing cold. It is suitable for women with cold-type menstrual cramps and melasma.
2. Chinese Angelica, Ginger, and Lamb Soup
Recipe: Put Chinese Angelica and ginger in a clay pot with an appropriate amount of water. Then add lamb cut into strips into the pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, remove the foam, and simmer over low heat for about 1.5 hours until the lamb is cooked and tender.
Effect: When consuming, you can add an appropriate amount of yellow wine. It is very effective in treating menstrual cramps.
3. Hawthorn, Cinnamon Twig, and Brown Sugar Soup
Recipe: 15g hawthorn meat, 5g cinnamon twig, 30g brown sugar. Put the hawthorn meat and cinnamon twig in a clay pot, add 2 cups of water, simmer until 1 cup is left, then add brown sugar, mix well, and bring to a boil.
Effect: This remedy has the effect of warming the menstrual flow, promoting blood circulation, and relieving pain. It is suitable for women with cold-type menstrual cramps and dull complexion.
