Thursday, 23rd February 2012
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Dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea is a menstrual discomfort characterized by severe uterine pain that occurs 1-2 days at the onset of menstruation.  Most women usually experience mild pain that is tolerable, but it is only diagnosed as dysmenorrhea when pain becomes severe to the point that it disrupts normal activities.

Usually characterized by dull, throbbing pain in the lower abdomen, dysmenorrhea can also sometimes be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness.  Menstrual pain is common among women, prevalent in an estimated 25% of women and up to 90% of adolescents. [1] It is usually caused by the contraction of the uterus, which occurs more strongly during the menstrual cycle.  Prostaglandin levels are especially high at the beginning of a woman’s period, and slowly decreases throughout its whole duration. [2]

The two types of dysmenorrhea are:

  • Primary dysmenorrhea.  This type of dysmenorrhea is a result of the contraction of the uterus, which is caused by the natural production of prostaglandins.  It often starts at the onset of a pre-teen or a teen’s first menstruation.
  • Secondary dysmenorrhea.  Other than the natural production of prostaglandings, this type of dysmenorrhea commonly results from pelvic abnormalities such as endometriosis and fibroids.  It begins later in life, usually when a woman is in her 20s or 30s, and lasts longer than normal cramps.

Dysmenorrhea is not life-threatening but it can be debilitating to a certain extent.  Most cases can be treated.  Medications and techniques help in relieving menstrual cramps.

  • Exercising has been found to alleviate menstrual cramps.
  • Applying heat to your lower abdomen may help relax the muscles.  Massaging your lower abdomen also ease menstrual cramps.
  • Keep a healthy diet.  Increase intake of fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water.
  • Get enough sleep and avoid stress.
  • Dietary supplements such as zinc, calcium, and vitamin B have been found to relieve dysmenorrheal symptoms.
  • Medications.  Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen help relieve pain.  NSAIDs block inhibits the production of prostaglandins.

References:

  1. Durain D. Primary dysmenorrhea: assessment and management update. J Midwifery Womens Health. Nov-Dec 2004;49(6):520-8. [Medline].
  2. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp046.cfm