Abdominal Pain from PMS: How to Cope

If you experience abdominal pain before your period, it may be a symptom of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome).

Abdominal Pain as a PMS Symptom

Although the exact cause of PMS isn’t fully understood, it’s thought that the rapid decline in the female hormones "estrogen" and "progesterone" during the luteal phase (just before menstruation) can trigger various symptoms.

PMS symptoms tend to intensify with age. In their 20s, people may experience more depressive symptoms, but in their 30s, they often become more irritable, and physical symptoms like headaches, lower back pain, and abdominal pain are more likely. As hormone levels shift with life stages, PMS symptoms can also change.

Why Does Abdominal Pain Occur Before Menstruation?

During menstruation, the uterus contracts to expel menstrual blood, but before menstruation begins, the hormone called prostaglandin is released, prompting uterine contractions. These contractions can affect nearby organs, causing premenstrual abdominal pain.

In addition to hormonal influences, the following causes are also possible.

1. Narrow Cervix

Some younger women or those who haven’t given birth may have a narrow cervix, which can restrict the flow of menstrual blood. This causes the uterus to contract more intensely, leading to pain. With more menstrual cycles or after childbirth, the cervix may become softer and wider, which can help reduce menstrual pain.

2. Poor Blood Circulation

Cold body temperature, prolonged sitting, and unaddressed stress can all lead to poor circulation, which can heighten sensitivity to pain. Reduced blood flow limits oxygen delivery to tissues, slowing metabolism and increasing pain sensitivity.

3. Extreme Dieting

Restrictive dieting can worsen menstrual pain. Since menstruation requires energy, insufficient nutrition can cause the body to struggle, resulting in abdominal pain.

Other Common PMS Symptoms

PMS symptoms are diverse but can generally be grouped into three main categories, including various emotional, physical, and behavioral signs.

Recommended Ways to Ease Premenstrual Abdominal Pain

1. Acupressure

Acupressure points can help relieve premenstrual abdominal pain. Use the pad of your finger, applying gentle pressure to each point for about five seconds without using your nails.

2. Improving Lifestyle Habits

Hormone balance fluctuates throughout the menstrual cycle, but poor lifestyle habits can further disrupt it.

1) Avoid Cold Exposure

Cold lower body temperature is a major factor in pain and poor blood circulation, which can increase sensitivity to pain. Drink warm beverages, take a hot bath, use a stomach warmer, and avoid thin clothing to keep your body warm.

2) Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is essential to help alleviate PMS-related abdominal pain.

- Protein supports hormone balance. Particularly, Isoflavones found in soy have a similar effect to estrogen, helping regulate hormone levels.

- Magnesium may help reduce excessive uterine contractions.

3. Herbal Medicine

If you want to address the root cause of the abdominal pain, consider using herbal medicine to improve your overall constitution. Poor circulation increases pain sensitivity, so here are two options to help improve blood flow:

1) Keishi-bukuryo-gan

Recommended for those with relatively strong stamina, facial flushing, and cold feet, it helps improve blood circulation and relieve blood stagnation.

2) Toukaku-jouki-to

Suitable for people with moderate or greater stamina, prone to constipation, hot flashes, and irritability, it aids circulation and eases blood stagnation.