What causes stomachache before period?

Stomach pain before your period may be related to changes in hormone levels, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, adenomyosis, gastrointestinal disorders and other factors. It usually manifests as bloating, dull or spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, which can be improved through hot compresses, drug relief, and dietary adjustments.

1. Changes in hormone levels

Before menstruation, the secretion of prostaglandins in the body increases, stimulating uterine contractions and causing pain. This type of pain is mostly mild, accompanied by breast tenderness or mood swings. It is recommended to use a hot water bottle to apply heat to the lower abdomen, avoid raw and cold foods, and drink appropriate amounts of ginger tea to relieve symptoms. If the pain is obvious, you can use ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, or naproxen sodium tablets as directed by your doctor.

2. Endometriosis

Ectopic growth of endometrial tissue may cause progressively worsening premenstrual abdominal pain, often accompanied by deep dyspareunia or infertility. The pain is mostly located deep in the pelvic cavity and gradually relieves after menstruation. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed by ultrasound or laparoscopy. Dienogest tablets, levonorgestrel intrauterine sustained-release system or goserelin injection can be used for treatment. In severe cases, surgical removal of the lesions is required.

3. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Patients with chronic pelvic inflammatory disease may experience persistent dull pain in the lower abdomen before menstruation, accompanied by abnormal leucorrhea or low-grade fever. The inflammatory response can increase pelvic congestion and lead to pain sensitivity. It is necessary to improve the examination of secretions. In the acute stage, ceftriaxone sodium for injection combined with metronidazole sodium chloride injection can be used. In the chronic stage, Chinese patent medicines such as Kangfu Xiaoyan Suppository can be used.

4.Adenomyosis

Invasion of the endometrium into the myometrium will lead to severe premenstrual cramping, with the pain progressively worsening and the uterus enlarging evenly and becoming hard. Ultrasound shows uneven echogenicity of the muscle layer, and CA125 may be elevated. Mild cases can be relieved with gestrinone capsules, while for moderate to severe cases, levonorgestrel sustained-release intrauterine system or hysterectomy should be considered.

5. Gastrointestinal disorders

Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation may affect intestinal peristalsis, causing abdominal distension, intestinal spasm and other discomforts. Pain is often located around the umbilicus. It is recommended to reduce the intake of gas-producing foods such as beans and dairy products one week before menstruation, and eat easy-to-digest porridge regularly. You can take an appropriate amount of Bifidobacterium triple live bacteria capsules to regulate the flora, or trimebutine maleate tablets to improve intestinal spasm.

It is recommended to record the time, intensity and accompanying symptoms of pain, and avoid strenuous exercise and bathing during menstruation. Maintain 30 minutes of aerobic exercise every day, such as walking or yoga, and pay attention to eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and walnuts. If the pain lasts for more than 3 days or affects daily life, you need to see a gynecologist promptly to check for organic diseases. You can wear loose clothing during menstruation, and be careful to avoid low-temperature burns when using warm baby hot compresses.