What is Dysmenorrhea?
Causes of dysmenorrhea/:During your period, your body produces chemicals called “prostaglandins.” These chemicals cause the uterus to contract or tighten, similar to the contractions that occur during labor and childbirth. Although these contractions during a period are normal, they can be painful. The medical term for painful periods is “dysmenorrhea.”
Treatment of dysmenorrhea: Several medical conditions can worsen the pain during your period. The most common one is called “endometriosis,” where tissues that are supposed to grow only in the uterus grow outside the uterus.
What Do Painful Periods Feel Like?
Women with painful periods experience cramping in the lower abdomen, which can range from mild to severe. They might also experience pain in their back or thighs. The pain usually starts with the period or just before it.
Some women may also experience the following:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Extreme tiredness
- Headache
- Bloating (a feeling of fullness in the abdomen)
Primary Dysmenorrhea vs Secondary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea vs secondary dysmenorrhea:Primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea are two distinct types of dysmenorrhea, each with its own causes and characteristics. Understanding the differences between these two conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea, also known as “common menstrual cramps,” occurs without any underlying medical conditions. It is typically seen in adolescents and younger women and is caused by the release of prostaglandins during menstruation. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that promote uterine contractions, leading to pain and inflammation.
The pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea usually begins a day or two before the period starts and lasts one to three days. The pain is typically crampy and centered in the lower abdomen but may also radiate to the lower back and thighs.
Other symptoms, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue, may accompany the pain.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea
Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is characterized by painful periods caused by an underlying medical condition. It often develops later in life, typically after the age of 25, and may persist beyond the normal duration of menstrual pain.
Various conditions can contribute to secondary dysmenorrhea, including endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, and ovarian cysts. The pain associated with secondary dysmenorrhea may be more severe and persistent compared to primary dysmenorrhea.
The intensity and duration of the pain may vary depending on the underlying condition. Women with secondary dysmenorrhea may also experience additional symptoms related to the underlying condition, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, irregular periods, or pain during sexual intercourse.
Diagnosing primary and secondary dysmenorrhea involves a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes additional tests. In the case of secondary dysmenorrhea, identifying and treating the underlying condition is crucial to alleviate the symptoms.
Treatment options for primary dysmenorrhea typically focus on managing the pain and may include over-the-counter pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), hormonal contraceptives (such as birth control pills), and heat therapy.
Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, stress reduction, and applying heat to the abdomen, can also provide relief for both types of dysmenorrhea.
Is There Anything I Can Do to Feel Better?
Yes. You can:
- Take pain medication such as ibuprofen (brand names: Motrin or Advil) and naproxen (brand name: Aleve). Start taking them as soon as you experience period symptoms, and continue taking them for 2 or 3 days.
- Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to your lower abdomen.
- Exercise regularly.
Should I See Dr. Mozhgan for Painful Periods?
See Dr. Mozhgan if:
- The pain is worsening.
- Pain medication isn’t helpful.
- You experience pain well before or after your period.
Are There Any Tests I Should Have?
Your doctor or nurse will decide which tests you need based on your age, other symptoms, and individual situation. Most women only require a physical exam. During the exam, your doctor will examine the size and shape of your vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. If the exam is abnormal or pain medication isn’t helpful, your doctor may recommend additional tests, including:
- Pelvic ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create an image of your uterus, ovaries, and vagina to check if they look normal.
- Tests for sexually transmitted infections
- Laparoscopy: This is a type of surgery where the doctor will put you to sleep and make a small incision just below your belly button. Then, they will use a thin tool with a camera to examine your belly.
How is Dysmenorrhea Treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of your painful periods. The most common treatments include:
- Pain medication
- Birth control pills or other hormonal forms of birth control.
Related Q&A
Q1. What causes dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea can be caused by the release of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that trigger uterine contractions and inflammation during menstruation. Other causes may include hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Q2. How is dysmenorrhea diagnosed?
Dysmenorrhea is usually diagnosed based on the individual’s symptoms and medical history. A physical examination, including a pelvic exam, may be performed to rule out any underlying conditions. In some cases, imaging tests or laparoscopy may be necessary for a more accurate diagnosis.
Q3. Can dysmenorrhea be prevented?
While dysmenorrhea cannot be completely prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, exercising regularly, and avoiding triggers such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption may help reduce the severity of symptoms.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
In conclusion, painful periods are a common experience for many women, and they can be caused by a variety of factors, including natural hormonal changes and medical conditions like endometriosis. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available, from over-the-counter pain medication to hormone-based birth control. If you are experiencing painful periods, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that works for you. With the right care and support, it is possible to manage and reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps and other symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
If you are experiencing painful periods and haven’t found relief from over-the-counter pain medications, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mozhgan. With her years of experience and expertise, she can help diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your pain. Don’t suffer in silence any longer; book with Dr. Mozhgan today and take the first step towards a pain-free period.
