How to use acupressure for menstrual pain and discomfort?

Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a common condition that affects many women, bringing painful cramps that may be accompanied by nausea, headaches and fatigue. This discomfort, often caused by excessive production of prostaglandins (chemicals that induce pain and inflammation), makes it essential to find effective methods for relief. One study showed that acupressure can reduce menstrual symptoms, the severity and duration of menstrual pain, stress and anxiety, as well as improve patients' quality of life and well-being by providing psychological support and facilitating self-care.

In this article, you will discover how acupressure can relieve menstrual pain, providing techniques and practical tips to make the most of this ancient healing practice.

What is acupressure?

Acupressure is a healing method derived from traditional Chinese medicine that stimulates specific points on the body to promote well-being. Unlike acupuncture, it uses finger pressure, especially the thumb and index finger, on energy points or meridians to regulate the flow of Qi, or vital energy. This practice helps restore internal balance, addressing both physical and emotional ailments, and is based on the idea that well-being comes from internal energy harmony. Easy to apply and noninvasive, acupressure is valued for its holistic approach to health, treating the cause of problems and not just the symptoms.

How acupressure can help with menstrual pain:

• Relieve cramps: Applying pressure to specific points, such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), can provide immediate relief from cramps, as this action helps relax uterine muscles and improve blood flow.
• Reduce inflammation: Points such as Zusanli (ST36) can help mitigate inflammation and pain by regulating bodily functions and promoting overall health.
• Promoting mental and physical well-being: Acupressure not only aims at physical relief but also at improving mental state, helping to reduce stress and anxiety that can accompany or exacerbate menstrual pain.

Menstrual pain can be a serious impediment to everyday life, but it need not be dealt with passively. Acupressure is an effective and non-invasive method of managing and relieving this type of pain. By practicing acupressure regularly, significant improvement in menstrual pain management can be achieved by taking advantage of a natural, hands-on solution. But for those looking for an even more practical alternative, our acupressure mats are the ideal solution for those seeking relief: simply lie on the mat with your back, legs or feet to stimulate the acupressure points in your body. In this way, you can relieve menstrual pain and promote optimal energy flow, all with minimal effort.