Is it normal to experience menstrual cramps before amenorrhea?
During the stage when women are approaching menopause, hormonal fluctuations often lead to menstrual cycle irregularities. The endometrium may be too thick or difficult to shed normally, causing abdominal pain during menstruation. This pain may resemble menstrual cramps, often presenting as intermittent dull or sharp pains. Solutions include trying local heat therapy to relieve pain, maintaining a stable mindset, and avoiding excessive emotional fluctuations. When necessary, non-prescription painkillers such as ibuprofen can be used under medical guidance, with attention to dosage and frequency.
Pre-menopausal menstrual cramps can also be caused by underlying health issues. Here are three common causes:
Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids can cause abnormal uterine contractions during menstruation, leading to pain or increased menstrual bleeding. Diagnosis can be confirmed through ultrasonography, and treatment options include medical therapy such as GnRH agonists, surgical removal (e.g., hysteroscopy), or interventional therapy (e.g., uterine artery embolization).
Endometriosis: Abnormal appearance of endometrial tissue outside the uterus causes severe pain during menstruation. Treatment options include hormonal therapy (e.g., combined oral contraceptives) or laparoscopic surgery.
Pelvic Inflammation: Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease can cause menstrual pain, fever, or abnormal discharge, requiring treatment with antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole combined with amoxicillin).
The pre-menopausal period is an important stage for women's health management. To relieve and prevent related discomfort, it is recommended to start with lifestyle habits:
Dietary Adjustments: Increase intake of foods rich in plant-based estrogens (e.g., soy products) to regulate hormone levels and avoid irritant and high-fat foods.
Moderate Exercise: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily, such as yoga or brisk walking, to help enhance body metabolism and hormone balance.
Regular Physical Examinations: Especially annual gynecological examinations, which help detect and address issues early, preventing problems before they occur.
If pre-menopausal menstrual cramps are not accompanied by other abnormal symptoms, there is no need for excessive concern. However, persistent pain or suspected pathological issues require attention and prompt medical attention to identify the cause and intervene.
