Causes:
When the menstrual cycle begins, prostaglandins (chemical substances that are made
by cells in the lining of the uterus) are released by the endometrial cells as they
are shed from the uterine lining, causing the uterine muscles to contract. If excessive
prostaglandin is present, the normal contraction response can become a strong and
painful spasm. As it spasms, the blood flow is cut off temporarily, depriving the
uterine muscle of oxygen and thus causing a "cramp." The cramps themselves help
push out the menstrual discharge. Excessive prostaglandin release is also responsible
for contraction of the smooth muscle in the intestinal tract;
Symptoms:
Dysmenorrhea is severe, disabling cramps without underlying illness. Symptoms may
include:
- Backache
- Leg pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
Treatment:
According to Ayurveda, Aartava or Menstruation is a phenomenon, which is controlled
and governed by Vata and specifically the Apana Vayu, the sub type of the Vata Dosha.
So in Dysmenorrhea, the first important thing is to control the Vata. Vata as we
all know is a factor which "holds" and "moves" all other factors of the body in
its desirable directions, so this is important that in a female patient Vata should
be under control to remove this condition of the Dysmenorrhea completely.
Vata is associated with the stress, with dryness, with movements and with a lot
of other factors and all these factors should be under control to get rid of the
problem properly. Generally it is noted that Periods bring a lot of anxiety and
depression and females went under stress. This stress will never help any one this
will only increase the problem and severity of the problem. It generally happens
with the women who are suffering from Premenstrual Syndrome.
The second thing which worsens the condition of theDysmenorrhea is the Constipation.
This is a well known fact that Apana Vayu has its head quarter in the last part
of the intestine. So if there will be some of the problems, it will only aggravate
the condition of the Dysmenorrhea.
Ayurvedic treatment emphasizes sweating, cleansing douches, and medicated enemas.
Abhyang, is used to relieve any obstructions in the passage, relieve any spasms,
facilitate free movement of vata in the proper direction, and enhance a proper menstrual
flow. Gentle massage with sesame oil, mahanarayan oil, or Panchguna oil is advised
over the lower abdomen, pelvic region, and thighs. swedana therapy remove the toxins
and also relieve muscular spasms and tenderness.
A medicated enema with a mixture of oil, milk, herbal paste, and decoction of herbs
is also pacifies vata and reduces any flatulence, removes obstruction of fecal matter,
and relieves the tension in the pelvic cavity. These three therapies together help
relieve pain and discomfort in the pelvic region.