Why Your Butthole Hurts During Your Period and How TCM Can Help

Have you ever experienced … butthole cramps?  That’s right, you're not the only one! These cramps are surprisingly common and are a signal that your body might need some extra care.

Why Do Butthole Cramps Happen During Menstruation?

The discomfort you're feeling boils down to prostaglandins—hormone-like substances that play a crucial role during your period. Prostaglandins help your uterus contract to shed its lining but can sometimes go overboard, leading to not just abdominal cramps but also those unexpected butthole cramps and the infamous "period poop."

Relief Through Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Traditional Chinese Medicine uses a variety of herbs to help balance the body's response to prostaglandins. For example, White Peony (Bai Shao) and Licorice (Gan Cao) are known for their hormone-regulating, muscle-relaxing and pain-soothing properties. These herbs work together in our Cycle Balance formulations to target the root cause of those notorious butthole cramps. By regulating production of prostaglandins and softening muscle tension, these herbs help minimize discomfort throughout your cycle. This holistic approach not only addresses the symptoms but also promotes overall menstrual health.

Home Remedies for Butthole Pain During Menstruation

1. Cinnamon Tea: Cinnamon is highly revered in TCM as an herb that can help soothe and soften the “lower jiao” aka the kidneys, lower back, sex organs, uterus, and anus. Brew a cup of medicinal strength cinnamon tea by adding a cinnamon stick to boiling water. Simmer for 20 min, let cool until it is cool enough to drink, and enjoy.
   
   
2. Acupressure: Applying pressure to specific points on the body can help alleviate menstrual cramps, including butthole pain. Here are some effective points:
• Spleen 6 (SP6): Located about four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone, on the backside of the shinbone. Apply firm pressure with circular motion with your thumb for a few minutes.
• Spleen 8 (SP8): Located about three finger-widths below the knee on the inside of the leg. Press firmly and create a circular motion with your thumb and hold for a few minutes.
• Liver 3 (LV3): Found in the webbing between the big toe and the second toe. Apply pressure using your thumb and massage gently.
• Kidney 1 (KD1): Located on the sole of the foot, in the depression just below the ball of the foot. Use your thumb to press and massage.
• Read more about acupressure and additional points here. 
  
  
3. Heat Application: Applying heat to the lower abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce pain.
   
   
4. Hydration: Staying hydrated helps reduce bloating and discomfort during menstruation.
   
   
5. Gentle Exercise: Practicing gentle yoga or stretching exercises can help alleviate menstrual cramps and improve overall well-being.

Is It Normal to Have Butthole Cramps During Period?

Yes, it is normal to have butthole cramps during your period, but it doesn’t mean you have to suffer through them. With the right approach, including TCM and lifestyle adjustments, you can find relief.

You don't have to endure those unexpected cramps anymore. Find a blend of herbs suited to your needs and enjoy a period free from the shocking surprise of butthole cramps. Have more questions? Our TCM health coaches are not phased by the mention of buttholes, and view period poops as valuable information, book a 1:1 today to learn more. 

Learn More About Cycle Balance

Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24411-prostaglandins

Reviewed By: This article was reviewed by Dr. Liem Le.

Dr. Liem Le is a Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Functional Medicine Practitioner, and Nutritionist Integrative Medicine Department at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center. He is a part of the teaching staff for the Masters program for the Functional Medicine and Human Nutrition program at University of Western States. Dr. Le is currently working on his fellowship in Integrative Medicine with the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine via a scholarship from the White House to complete the initiative.