Pain may be an inevitable part of life, but that doesn’t mean we should suffer when we don’t have to. According to a new review of studies by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), women’s pain in particular is often ineffectively dealt with, though many natural options may significantly help.
The ASA’s press release explains, “women have a particularly interesting relationship with pain – childbirth is considered to be one of the most painful experiences and in general, women report having more pain than men.”
Dr. Donna-Ann Thomas, of the ASA’s Committee on Pain Medicine, stated that many women who come into her office suffering from sciatica, a particular form of back pain, report being in pain for extended periods of time without sufficient relief. She explained:
“I can’t tell you the number of women I see who have been told they just have to live with the pain. It’s just heart breaking because many of these women have been suffering a long time. Women, especially older women, are less likely to speak up and seek treatment for their pain.”
The ASA’s review found, among other discoveries, that women who listen to music while in labor often report experiencing lowered anxiety and pain levels, that yoga can be very beneficial for women’s back pain, and that in a small study of menstruating women, rose oil massaged onto the abdomen was effective for easing menstrual pain.
“Women have many options for tackling pain. Those with chronic back pain might consider yoga. Pregnant women might want to put together a playlist of their favorite songs to help them through childbirth,” the ASA press release states.
If you are in pain, it is worth it to your quality of life to find a solution that works for you. Getting all the information you can, by talking to various health professionals you trust, and those that come highly recommended, as well as doing your own independent research, is key to making the best decision possible for your needs.
Also, to include in your research, you may want to look into these superfoods and essential oils, which can go far in kicking chronic pain to the curb.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.asahq.org/whensecondscount/patients%20home/pain%20management/womens%20pain
