A 23-year-old young woman I know has severe pain in the chest (breasts) and abdomen a few days before her period. Because of the pain she cannot focus on her work and becomes irritable. This happens every month. Why does this pain happen, and what is the remedy? What guidance does Ayurveda give for this?
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Direct answer: Heaviness and pain in the breasts and pain in the abdomen before periods are often part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) in many young women, caused by hormonal changes. Diet, exercise, less stress and Ayurvedic care usually give good relief. If the pain is very severe, a gynaecological check is needed.
Understanding the problem
In the second half of the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes can cause fluid build-up, swelling and pain in the breasts. Abdominal pain, bloating, irritability, fatigue and sleep problems are also symptoms of PMS. If abdominal pain is very severe, causes such as endometriosis or a growth need to be checked.
The Ayurvedic view
In Ayurveda, period-related pain is called Kashtartava, and disturbance of Apana Vata (downward-moving Vata) is considered the main factor. Late nights, stress, cold and dry food and constipation increase Vata. Kapha also plays a part in breast heaviness and swelling, and Pitta in irritability.
Practical steps
- From 7-10 days before the period, less salt, tea, coffee and fried food.
- 30 minutes of walking or yoga daily.
- A hot water bag on the abdomen.
- A comfortable bra of the right size.
- Enough sleep; meditation and Bhramari pranayama.
- Keep a diary of symptoms (when, how much pain).
Diet
- Warm, light, fresh food; sesame, jaggery in moderation, green vegetables, fruits.
- Water and fibre so that constipation does not occur.
Medicine and yoga
In Ayurveda, herbs such as Shatavari, Ashoka, Dashmool and Hingvashtak (for gas and bloating) are considered useful in Kashtartava. The right medicine, dose and duration will be decided by the Vaidya after examining the condition. Yoga: Baddha Konasana, Bhujangasana, Marjariasana, Balasana.
When to see a doctor immediately?
- A lump in the breast, nipple discharge
- Unbearable abdominal pain, fainting, fever
- Very heavy bleeding during periods or very irregular periods
- Extreme sadness or thoughts of self-harm before periods
Related Questions
What is PMS?
Physical and emotional symptoms in the days before periods, which reduce once the period starts.
Is breast pain before periods normal?
Yes, in many women; if there is a lump or discharge, a check is needed.
What is Kashtartava?
The Ayurvedic name for painful periods, in which disturbance of Apana Vata is the main factor.
In short: Breast and abdominal pain before periods is often part of PMS. Less salt and tea, regular exercise, a warm compress, enough sleep and care such as Shatavari-Ashoka on a Vaidya’s advice give relief; get checked for a lump or severe pain.
You can seek advice for more guidance.
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