Painful menstrual periods

Painful menstrual periods, also known as dysmenorrhea, is a medical condition characterized by severe and frequent cramps and pain during menstruation. The pain typically occurs in the lower abdomen but can also radiate to the lower back and thighs. Dysmenorrhea is categorized into two types: primary and secondary.

Causes

Primary dysmenorrhea is the common menstrual cramps that are not due to other diseases. The pain is caused by excessive levels of prostaglandins, chemicals that make the uterus contract. These contractions can cause pain and inflammation. Secondary dysmenorrhea is pain that is caused by a disorder in the woman's reproductive organs, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, or infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dysmenorrhea include:

• Throbbing or cramping pain in the lower abdomen
• Pain that starts shortly before or at the onset of menstruation and continues for one to three days
• Pain that radiates to the lower back and thighs
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• General malaise

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dysmenorrhea involves a medical history and physical examination by a healthcare provider. In cases of secondary dysmenorrhea, further tests such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or laparoscopy may be required to identify any underlying reproductive disorders.

Treatment

Treatment for dysmenorrhea may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Hormonal contraceptives to lessen the severity of menstrual cramps
• Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Heat therapy, such as applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen
• In cases of secondary dysmenorrhea, treatment of the underlying cause is necessary, which may involve surgery or other medical interventions.

Prevention

Preventive measures for dysmenorrhea include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, and managing stress. In some cases, hormonal contraceptives may be used to prevent the onset of menstrual cramps.