In the consultation room, I often hear, “Isn’t it normal to have pain every period?” Menstruation is a signal that reflects changes in the body relatively well. Stress, sleep, weight changes, medications you are taking, and hormonal changes can all affect the cycle and pain, so it is important to look at the overall pattern rather than separating out pain alone.
What to Check First If the Pattern of Pain Has Changed
Dysmenorrhea can cause a heavy or cramping pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis before and after menstruation, and may be accompanied by low back pain, headaches, or muscle aches. If you were fine before but the pain suddenly becomes severe, or if menstrual flow increases and there are more clots, a medical visit is needed to check for uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, or ovarian disease.
In many cases, no clear disease is seen on testing. In this situation, rather than focusing on enduring the pain, it can be helpful to look together at why the pain increases every month, including cold sensitivity, reduced circulation, fatigue, digestion, and sleep rhythm.
In Korean Medicine, We Look at Circulation and Cold Sensitivity Together
In Korean medicine, dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) are examined in relation to deficiency of qi and blood, stagnation of qi, blood stasis, coldness in the lower abdomen, and tension in the autonomic nervous system. Symptoms before and after menstruation may also increase when stress continues for a long time, overwork accumulates, or physical strength declines due to excessive dieting.
During a visit, we check the location and timing of pain, bleeding patterns, cold hands and feet, bowel movements, swelling, appetite changes, and mood changes together. If a uterine or ovarian disease is present, we first consider the testing and treatment plan for that condition, while also establishing a plan to support the body’s recovery.
Premenstrual Syndrome Is a Signal from the Whole Body
If constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, swelling, headaches, breast pain, increased appetite, or sensitivity recur before menstruation, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can be considered. This should be understood not simply as a matter of willpower, but as a state in which the autonomic nervous system, circulation, and gastrointestinal function are all affected as the body adapts to hormonal changes.
- Starting 7–10 days before your expected period, do light walking or stretching regularly.
- Do not let the lower abdomen get cold; relax tension with warm compresses, a half-body bath, and similar measures.
- Reduce caffeine, excessive alcohol, and late-night meals, and make sure to get fluids and dietary fiber.
- If constipation recurs, keep bowel movement times consistent and avoid excessive food restriction.
- If you are taking pain relievers or hormonal medication, do not stop them on your own; consult your medical team.
We Recommend Consultation in These Cases
If pain severe enough to stop daily activities recurs, if your menstrual cycle is often irregular, if menstrual flow suddenly increases, or if pain during intercourse or pelvic pain during bowel movements occurs, we recommend seeking care. Sudden, severe one-sided pelvic pain, dizziness close to fainting, or bleeding when pregnancy is possible should not be delayed; go to the emergency room or call 119 first.
Because dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) are monthly discomforts, they are often left unaddressed for a long time. Recording not only the intensity of pain but also changes in digestion, sleep, emotions, and cold sensitivity before and after menstruation can help narrow down the cause. I will help you read the signals your body is sending and continue Lifestyle Management and a care plan without undue strain.