Traditional Chinese Medicine has a point called "Sanyinjiao", also known as "Female Sanyinjiao" or "Gynecological Sanyinjiao". As the name suggests, this point is very effective in treating gynecological disorders such as menstrual irregularities, excessive or scanty white discharge and menstruation, premenstrual syndrome, and menopausal syndrome.
This point is located on the inner side of the lower leg, 3 inches above the inner ankle, behind the inner edge of the tibia. Women with dysmenorrhea can gently rub this point with their thumbs during their daily routine, applying pressure for 3 minutes on each side. Another method is using moxibustion with an Artemisia stick. Light the Artemisia stick purchased from a pharmacy and place it near the acupoint, ensuring that the local skin feels warm but not burnt. Each acupoint should be treated for 10 minutes. It is important to note that this point should not be strongly stimulated during menstruation, as it may lead to increased menstrual flow.
Acupressure exercises during menstruation:
Rubbing the palms: Rub the palms together vigorously 49 times to generate warmth and heat up the three yin channels on the hands.
Massaging Sanyinjiao: Raise one leg and use the thumb to massage Sanyinjiao 49 times. Patients with endocrine disorders often experience tenderness at this point. Sanyinjiao is located three inches (about four finger-widths) above the inner ankle, near the posterior border of the tibia.
Massaging Xuehai: Sit with the knees bent and use the thumb to massage the Xuehai point on the same side 49 times. Xuehai is located two inches above the inner condyle of the femur.
Massaging the lower abdomen: Gently rub the lower abdomen 49 times. The lower abdomen contains the Conception Vessel's Guanyuan point and Qihai point. Guanyuan is located three inches (about four finger-widths) directly below the navel, while Qihai is located one inch and five minutes below the center of the navel.
Massaging the Kidney Shu points in the lower back: Place both palms on the lower back and massage the Kidney Shu points above for 49 times. The Kidney Shu points are located 1.5 inches to the side of the second lumbar spinous process.
Expert advice:
Engaging in moderate exercise during menstruation is beneficial for the body, but be cautious not to overexert and remember to rest.
In addition, try to avoid overly sweet or salty foods, as well as caffeinated foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and cola. Keep the body warm and relax the muscles by drinking warm herbal tea or hot lemon juice. Applying a heat pad or hot water bottle to the abdomen for a few minutes can also help.
