Presentation summary

Introduction :
Dysmenorrhea is common among women of reproductive age with a worldwide prevalence of 16% to 90%. This case report discusses a 27-year-old female presenting with progressively worsening dysmenorrhea and irregular menstrual cycles over four years. Her symptoms included severe menstrual cramping, irregular cycles, lower back soreness, premenstrual breast tenderness, fatigue, and menstrual bloodclots. This study explores acupuncture and herbal medicine as treatments for patients with dysmenorrhea.

Method :
The patient received weekly acupuncture treatments, including electroacupuncture, with needle retention for 15 minutes. Acupuncture points selected were Qihai (CV6), Guanyuan (CV4), Guilai (CV1),Zigong (EX-CA1), Fenglong (ST40), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Taichong (LR3), and Tianshu (ST25). A customized herbal medicine regimen was concurrently prescribed. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used, and symptom progress was monitored during regular follow-up visits.
Results: After one year of nearly weekly treatments, menstrual pain reduced significantly from NRS 7 to NRS4. Lower back soreness resolved completely, and the quantity of menstrual blood clots decreased. Premenstrual breast tenderness and fatigue persisted. Elevated prolactin levels were observed, which may berelated to study stress, potentially contributing to ongoing menstrual irregularities.

Conclusion :
Acupuncture combined with herbal medicine effectively reduced dysmenorrhea and improvedassociated symptoms over one year. Persistent elevated prolactin levels suggest underlying hormonal factors requiring