“More than 50% of postpubescent menstruating women are affected by dysmenorrhea [period pain], with 10–12% of them having severe dysmenorrhea with incapacitation for 1–3 days each month.”(1)

From a modern perspective, a hormone imbalance is causing the pain you are experiencing during your cycle. Prostaglandin hormones are responsible for the contractions in the uterus and, when imbalanced, can lead to severe period pains.

Primary dysmenorrhea usually occurs for the first time within the first two years of menarche. Symptoms start on the first or second day of the period. In many cases, cramps and pain go away after pregnancy and vaginal delivery. 

Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is caused by injury, illness, cysts or other problems in the reproductive system. In this case, have a check-up with a medical professional. The pain will disappear with successful treatment of the condition causing it. 

In Ayurveda, painful menstruation is associated with a Vata imbalance, more specifically with one of the subtypes of Vata called Apana Vata. It regulates the downward flow in our body, i.e. bowel movements or menstrual blood. Apana vata can get easily disturbed by too much stress and spending mental or physical energy during or in the lead-up to our periods. When overly taxed, Apana Vat can invert its direction. This reverse energy flow makes it very difficult for our body to expel the menstrual blood, and you experience pain and cramping. 

Therefore, if you suffer from regular period pain, balancing Vata is what you need to focus on to manage painful menstruation. 

Try to create small daily Vata Balancing rituals throughout the whole month.

1. Abhyanga or oil massage: We suggest a minimum of two or three times per week for it to take effect. If you can include daily Abhyanga in your morning or evening routine, you will see the effects much faster. Oiling our skin helps us to ground and focus our energy. You fortify your protective layer and will have a much “thicker skin” against stressors or nervousness. If you are unsure what Abhyanga is and how to do it, download our free Abhyanga Poster here.
2. Breath Work for a calmer you: Calming and balancing pranayam like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhramari (bumble bee breath) are great for calming the nervous system and balancing Vata. We also have observed Bharmari to be an excellent tool for managing acute period pain.
3. Vata Balancing diet: Focus on easy-to-digest foods that do not give you gas. Try to include more liquid foods like soups and stews using lots of healthy fat. 

The following remedies focus on getting Apana Vata to move in the right direction. 

Castor Oil Pack for relieving painful periods and creating ease in your menstrual flow 

For an at-home castor oil pack treatment, set aside 30- 60 minutes and find a comfortable, warm spot in your house where you can spend the next 30 minutes or so in a relaxed position. Warm 1-2 tbsp of castor oil in a hot water bath and apply the warm oil to your abdomen. Now, cover it with a clean, soft cloth or kitchen roll and a layer of cling film or other plastic on top. Place a hot water bottle or heat pad on the covered area and rest for 30 – 60 minutes. You could do some yoga nidra (double the benefit!). Once the time is up, remove the oil with warm water or a damp cloth. Keep in mind that castor oil is quite sticky.

Ajwain infusion

Ajwain is a carminative herb which relieves bloating and also encourages the downward flow of Vata. Simmer 2-3 tsp of Ajwain seeds in one glass of water on low heat for 8-10 minutes. Take 2-3 teaspoons of this decoction 3-6 times a day. 

There is another Ayurvedic concept to keep in mind when talking about period pain. In Ayurveda, we can experience a blockage of the Srotas (channels), which then can throw several, if not all Doshas, out of balance. Blockages ideally need to be addressed by Ayurvedic practitioners. 

If none of the above tips helps after applying them for 2-3 months, there might be deeper seated issues (like a blockage), and you can reach out to us and book a free mini consultation here to find out how we can help.