Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

Overview

Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen that occur just before and during menstruation. While some women experience mild discomfort, others may suffer from severe pain that interferes with daily activities. Understanding the causes and effective management strategies is crucial for those affected by this common condition.

Types of Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

1. Primary Dysmenorrhea: Occurs as part of the normal menstrual cycle and is not associated with any underlying medical conditions.
2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Results from an underlying condition, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Causes of Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

• Prostaglandins: Hormonelike substances involved in pain and inflammation trigger uterine muscle contractions during menstruation. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more severe cramps.
• Underlying Conditions:
  • Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
  • Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterine wall.
  • Adenomyosis: Uterine lining tissue grows into the muscular walls.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Infection of the female reproductive organs.
  • Cervical Stenosis: Narrow cervix obstructs menstrual flow.

Risk Factors of Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

You might be at risk of menstrual cramps if:

• You’re younger than age 30.
• You started puberty early (before age 11).
• You experience heavy bleeding during periods (menorrhagia).
• You have irregular menstrual bleeding (metrorrhagia).
• There’s a family history of menstrual cramps.

Symptoms of Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

Preventions of Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid excessive salt intake.
• Maintain a healthy diet.
• Get adequate rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Use a heating pad.
• Gently massage the abdomen.
• Take warm baths.

Diagnosis of Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

 Based on medical history and pelvic examination.

Treatment for Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

• Self-Care: Heat therapy, gentle exercise, and rest.
• Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like mefenamic acid or ibuprofen.
• Oral Contraceptives: Improve symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea.
• Gynecological Surgery: For underlying causes (e.g., fibroids).

When to seek medical attention ?

• If menstrual cramps disrupt your life every month.
• If symptoms progressively worsen.
• If severe menstrual cramps start after age 25.