Dysmenorrhea: Painful Cramping during Menstrual Periods

Sometimes a woman will experience painful cramping while she is having her menstrual period. When the cramping and pain are intense and regular, she may be suffering from dysmenorrhea. This painful condition is classified as being either primary or secondary dysmenorrhea. The primary type begins when the woman first begins menstruating and will likely continue throughout her life. Secondary dysmenorrhea frequently begins later in life when an underlying condition such as endometriosis occurs that aggravates the condition.

Primary dysmenorrhea may be caused by a hormonal or chemical imbalance. There may also be other factors such as structural problems internally. Secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by an assortment of conditions. For example, uterine fibroids and Pelvic inflammatory disease are two conditions that may lead to dysmenorrhea.

Cramping and pain are frequently accompanied by other symptoms during the menstrual cycle for women who have dysmenorrhea. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, back pain, pain radiating down legs and headaches. Treatment options for women who are experience dysmenorrhea will vary from woman to woman. For example, some may respond to hormone therapy such as taking progesterone. A doctor may also recommend taking birth control pills to inhibit ovulation. Some women find relief using over-the-counter products that reduce inflammation and ease pain such as products containing NSAIDs. In extreme cases, some women have hysterectomies or surgical interventions to address dysmenorrhea.

Women who have dysmenorrhea should consult with a health care provider to find a safe, effective means of managing this condition. Making dietary changes and getting regular exercise may help lesson some of the symptoms of this painful disorder. For instance, avoiding caffeine, fat and processed foods may help. Supplemental vitamins can help a woman meet her nutritional needs at this time. In addition, stress may compound the problem so finding ways to manage stress may also be beneficial.

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