Dysmenorrhea occurs in conjunction with the menstrual cycle. For many sufferers, it occurs during menstruation, though it can occur at other times in a woman's cycle, as well, such as during ovulation. There are two types of dysmenorrhea, primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea.Primary dysmenorhea is the term used to describe pain related to menstruation, but not related to any pelvic disorder or injury. The pain of primary dysmenorrhea is often identified as waves of lower abdominal pain or cramping, which may be associated with the contractions of the uterus during menstruation. The abdominal pain of primary dysmenorrhea in some cases can be accompanied by leg cramps or back ache, nausea, vomiting, and bowel problems such as diarrhea or constipation, as well. Additionally, daughters of mothers who suffered primary dysmenorrhea frequently suffer from primary dysmenorrhea themselves.
Secondary dysmenorrhea refers to pain related to menstruation and caused by pelvic inflammation or lesions from disease, surgical scarring, injuries to the reproductive tract, and sometimes implanted types of birth control (IUDs). While the pain of primary dysmenorrhea is often symmetrical, begins just before the onset of menstrual bleeding, and lasts only one or two days, the pain of secondary dysmenorrhea is often concentrated around the area effected by the lesions, begins several days before bleeding, and lasts for several days after the onset of bleeding.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the severity of dysmenorrhea. These include obesity, chronic illness, stress, fatigue or exhaustion, lack of exercise, diabetes, age, and poor nutrition. The bloating and water retention that tends to occur around the time of menstruation can also worsen symptoms.
While there is no cure for primary dysmenorrhea, many steps can be taken to reduce or eliminate symptoms. Over-the-counter pain medications containing ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful. Some over-the-counter remedies are designed especially for combating the pain of primary dysmenorrhea, and contain a combination of pain-killing agents and diuretics to stop pain and reverse bloating and water retention. For those with especially painful, heavy or long periods, prescription pain killers, muscle relaxants, or hormonal therapies may be used to alleviate symptoms or normalize the menstrual cycle; sometimes the birth control pill is used for this purpose. Other possible remedies include heat application, dietary modification, and exercise. Some patients report that herbal remedies help to decrease their symptoms, as well, although it is recommended that patients check with their health care provider before beginning any such products.For those with secondary dysmenorrhea, some of the same over-the-counter or prescription medications may be used, and medical treatment may be helpful in correcting the pelvic lesions responsible for causing the symptoms.
Many women suffer from mild cramping and discomfort at the time of their menstrual periods. However, for others, the pain can be intense and disruptive. If dysmenorrhea is interfering with day-to-day life or causing severe pain, it is best for sufferers to discuss their symptoms with a health care provider, who may check for related disorders and suggest treatment options.
