Dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea is a medical term for painful menstruation, which interferes with daily activities. The severity of pain can range from mild to severe and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and even diarrhea.

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Types

• There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary.
• Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain not associated with any specific pelvic pathology. It often starts a few years after a girl starts menstruating, when ovulation begins.
• Secondary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain that's attributed to an identifiable medical problem, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of dysmenorrhea is pain concentrated in the lower abdomen, in the umbilical region, or the suprapubic region. It can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and diarrhea.

Treatment

Treatments for dysmenorrhea range from over-the-counter medication and lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and regular exercise, to prescription drugs and, in severe cases, surgery. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the primary over-the-counter medication used to relieve menstrual cramps.

Prevention

While not all cases of dysmenorrhea can be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce symptoms. The use of a heating pad on the lower abdomen may also provide some relief.

See Also

• Menstruation
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

References

• "Dysmenorrhea". Mayo Clinic.
• "Dysmenorrhea". Johns Hopkins Medicine.
• "Dysmenorrhea". American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

External Links

Dysmenorrhea - MedlinePlus Dysmenorrhea - American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

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