Are Your Periods More Painful Than They Should Be?

Published: Oct 12, 2023

Painful periods, known as dysmenorrhea, are a common issue for many women. Let's dive into what symptoms to look out for and when to seek help.

Recognizing the Pain

Dysmenorrhea pain is typically crampy and occurs in the lower abdomen. It often starts one to two days before bleeding and can spread to the back and thighs. The pain intensity varies but can disrupt daily activities.

Additional Symptoms

Beyond pain, symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, and malaise. These symptoms are often linked to the body's release of prostaglandins, which trigger uterine contractions.

Dysmenorrhea refers to the medical condition of painful menstruation that may include symptoms like cramping, nausea, and fatigue.

When to Seek Help

If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by unusual symptoms like non-midline pain, it's time to consult a healthcare professional. These signs may indicate secondary dysmenorrhea or another medical condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

It's crampy pain in the lower abdomen, often intense.

Nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and headaches are common.

Seek help if the pain is severe or unusual.

Pain can last up to 72 hours.

Key Takeaways

Recognizing the symptoms of dysmenorrhea can help you take control of your health.

Get started by discussing your symptoms with Doctronic today.

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References

Campbell MA, McGrath PJ. Use of medication by adolescents for the management of menstrual discomfort. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 1997; 151:905.

Klein JR, Litt IF. Epidemiology of adolescent dysmenorrhea. Pediatrics 1981; 68:661.

Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.