Can Women Have Not Dysmenorrhea After Marriage?

Dysmenorrhea, characterized by lower abdominal pain, swelling, backaches, and discomfort before, during, or after menstruation, is a common concern for many women. Interestingly, after marriage and the experience of childbirth, some women report a significant reduction or even the disappearance of the severe pain associated with dysmenorrhea. This article delves into the factors that contribute to this phenomenon.

Why Does Dysmenorrhea Diminish After Marriage?

1. Improved Menstrual Blood Flow: One contributing factor is the regularity of sexual intercourse in married life. Sexual activity can enhance the smooth discharge of menstrual blood. Menstrual blood primarily consists of fragments of endometrial tissue and blood from small blood vessels following the shedding of the endometrium. The blood flows from the uterus through the cervix and exits via the vagina. If this channel is not sufficiently smooth, it can lead to the stagnation of menstrual blood.

When the brain detects menstrual blood stagnation, it triggers increased prostaglandin secretion and more intense uterine contractions, causing the painful condition known as dysmenorrhea. Young women, particularly those with limited sexual experience, may experience a higher likelihood of menstrual blood stagnation and period pain due to a narrower channel. Approximately 70% of unmarried and childless young women experience some period pain, with severe dysmenorrhea affecting around 40%.

Marriage often entails regular sexual intercourse, which can be likened to clearing a blocked sewer. This helps reduce the probability of menstrual blood stagnation. As a result, the body requires fewer prostaglandins, reducing the chances of period pain.

2. Uterine Position Corrections: Many women experience period pain due to the position of their uterus, which may be too far forward or backward. These positions are unfavorable for the smooth discharge of menstrual blood, often resulting in dysmenorrhea. During pregnancy, especially in the later stages, the presence of a growing baby in the womb necessitates changes in posture while sitting, lying down, and walking. This process can help correct the position of the uterus. Consequently, menstrual blood stagnation caused by an improperly positioned uterus diminishes, alleviating pain.

Natural childbirth further expands the cervix and birth canal, smoothing the discharge pathway for menstrual blood and reducing the likelihood of stagnation.

3. Enhanced Endocrine and Overall Health: Regular sexual activity after marriage can contribute to the maturation and stability of a woman's endocrine system, leading to improved physical and mental well-being. A healthier body and mind are less prone to period pain. For many young women, period pain significantly alleviates or disappears entirely after marriage and childbirth.

It's important to note that individual physiology varies, and some women may continue to experience dysmenorrhea after marriage. In such cases, lifestyle and dietary adjustments may be necessary.

Does Dysmenorrhea Vanish for All Women After Marriage?

Dysmenorrhea can be categorized as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea accounts for over 90% of cases and refers to period pain without genital organic lesions. Statistics show that primary dysmenorrhea affects approximately 70% of high school students and 60%-70% of college students, with most cases being mild. For some individuals with primary dysmenorrhea, regular sexual activity after marriage can lead to improvement.

Primary dysmenorrhea typically arises from issues like cervical stenosis or uterine flexion, which can result in menstrual blood stagnation and irritation of the uterus. Sexual intercourse can enlarge the vaginal and uterine openings, facilitating the smooth discharge of endometrial tissue and menstrual blood, ultimately alleviating pain.

Prostaglandins play a significant role in primary dysmenorrhea, contributing to excessive uterine muscle contractions and vasospasms that lead to pain. The high levels of prostaglandins also heighten our perception of pain. As the endometrium sheds during menstruation, prostaglandin levels decrease, gradually relieving dysmenorrhea.

2. Underlying pelvic organic diseases, such as endometriosis and adnexitis, mainly cause secondary dysmenorrhea. Even after marriage and childbirth, individuals with secondary dysmenorrhea may experience symptoms. In such cases, prompt medical attention is necessary.

The relationship between marriage and the alleviation of dysmenorrhea is complex and multifaceted. While many women experience relief from dysmenorrhea after marriage, it is not a universal outcome. Understanding the causes and types of dysmenorrhea is crucial for addressing this issue effectively. For those who continue to suffer from severe dysmenorrhea, seeking medical advice and considering treatments like herbal medicine, such as Fuyan Pill, can be beneficial. Lifestyle modifications, a balanced diet, and emotional well-being are essential in managing this condition effectively.