Menstrual cramps
Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps (pronounced: men-stru-al kramps), also known as dysmenorrhea (pronounced: dis-men-o-ree-a), are painful sensations felt in the lower abdomen that can occur both before and during a woman's menstrual period. The pain ranges from dull and annoying to severe and extreme.
Etymology
The term "menstrual cramps" is derived from the Latin word menses meaning "month", and the Greek word algos meaning "pain". The medical term "dysmenorrhea" comes from the Greek words dys meaning "difficult, painful, abnormal", meno meaning "month", and rhea meaning "flow".
Symptoms
Menstrual cramps can include a throbbing or cramping pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the lower back and thighs, nausea, loose stools, sweating, and dizziness. Some women also experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue, and food cravings.
Causes
Menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus, which is a muscle. If the uterus contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels, cutting off the supply of oxygen to the muscle tissue of the uterus. Pain results when part of a muscle briefly loses its supply of oxygen.
Treatment
Treatment for menstrual cramps includes over-the-counter medication, prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), birth control pills, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and dietary modifications. In severe cases, a procedure called a hysterectomy may be considered.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Menstrual cramps
- Wikipedia's article - Menstrual cramps
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