What Causes Dysmenorrhea and How Can You Manage It?
What Causes Dysmenorrhea and How Can You Manage It?
What's This About?
Dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, affects many women and is divided into primary and secondary types. Understanding the causes and treatments can help manage the condition effectively.
Contents
- Types of Dysmenorrhea
- Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea
- Diagnosing the Condition
Types of Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea involves recurrent, crampy pain during menstruation without any underlying disease. In contrast, secondary dysmenorrhea is due to conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids, which can result in similar pain. Differentiating between the two is crucial for effective treatment.
Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea
Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, which can interfere with daily activities. Secondary dysmenorrhea may also involve pain during intercourse and resistance to treatments. Recognizing these symptoms can lead to timely intervention and relief.
Diagnosing the Condition
Diagnosis often involves excluding other conditions through detailed history and physical exams, especially for primary dysmenorrhea. Adolescents and young adults are more frequently diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea.
FAQs
What is primary dysmenorrhea?
It is painful menstruation without an underlying disease.
What causes secondary dysmenorrhea?
Conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
Can dysmenorrhea affect daily life?
Yes, it can interfere with daily activities.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the type and cause of dysmenorrhea is key to finding effective relief.
Additional References
- Schoep ME, et al. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026186.
- Matthewman G, et al. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 219:255.e1.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.