Understanding PMS-Period Pain

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) includes physical and emotional symptoms that occur 1–2 weeks before menstruation, often due to hormonal fluctuations. Period pain (dysmenorrhea) involves uterine contractions that cause cramping.

PMS and period pain can bring mood changes, fatigue, and cramping that disrupt daily life. Hormonal fluctuations trigger uterine contractions, which cause discomfort. Acupressure may help ease cramps, regulate energy flow, and reduce both physical and emotional strain during the menstrual cycle.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Abdominal cramping
  • Breast tenderness
  • Headaches
  • Bloating
  • Fatigue
  • Digestive changes

Emotional Impact

  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Sadness or crying spells
  • Food cravings
  • Sleep disturbances

Primary Points for PMS-Period Pain

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

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Menstrual Comfort and PMS Relief (During PMS week and menstruation, 15-20 minutes)

Treatment Protocol

  1. Use heat therapy alongside acupressure: warm heating pad on low or warm bath before starting
  2. Find comfortable position: lie down with knees bent and pillow support, or sit with feet elevated
  3. Begin with gentle belly breathing to activate relaxation and reduce cramping
  4. Massage SP-8 (inner leg, below knee, in soft depression) in slow circles for 2 minutes each leg to ease uterine cramps
  5. Apply gentle pressure to CV-4 (lower abdomen, 4 finger-widths below navel) for 2-3 minutes to support menstrual flow
  6. Press LR-3 (top of foot, between big toe and second toe) for 1-2 minutes each foot to release tension
  7. For additional cramp relief: add CV-6 (lower abdomen, 2 finger-widths below navel) with gentle circular massage
  8. For pelvic circulation: include ST-29 (lower abdomen, 2 finger-widths beside navel and down) with light pressure
  9. For mood swings: extend LR-3 massage and add HT-7 (wrist crease, pinky side) for emotional balance
  10. Practice 2-3 times daily during PMS week and as needed during menstruation

Supporting Your Recovery

Lifestyle

  • Warm Compress: Apply heat to lower abdomen to ease cramping
  • Gentle Movement: Yoga and walking may reduce pain and improve mood

Important

  • Track Severity: Note if pain disrupts daily life or worsens over time
  • Seek Help for Sudden Pain: Sharp or intense pelvic pain may require urgent evaluation for cysts or ectopic pregnancy