Definition Of Dysmenorrhea:
Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. The pain is usually located in the lower abdomen and may radiate to the inner thighs and back. It is a very common gynecologic problem and can negatively impact a patient’s life.
Causes Of Dysmenorrhea:
Women with primary dysmenorrhea have abnormal contractions of the uterus due to a chemical imbalance in the body. For example, the chemical prostaglandin control the contractions of the uterus. Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by other medical conditions, most often endometriosis.
Symptoms Of Dysmenorrhea
- cramping or pain in the lower abdomen
- low back pain
- pain spreading down the legs
- nausea
- vomiting,
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- weakness
- fainting
- headaches.
Treatment Of Dysmenorrhea
1.pain-relief medication – such as paracetamol
2.anti-inflammatory medication –such as ibuprofen
3.regular exercise, which releases natural chemicals (endorphins) that relieve pain
4.putting a heat pack or hot water bottle on your abdomen and lower back to help relax the muscles
Other ways to reduce menstrual cramps:
There are several treatments for menstrual cramps that don’t involve medication. Some of these are:
1.Using a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or abdomen when you have cramps. Getting extra rest.
2.Avoiding foods that contain caffeine.
3.Avoiding smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol.
4.Massaging your lower back and abdomen.
5.Exercising regularly
Types Of Dysmenorrhea:
Dysmenorrhea may be primary, existing from the beginning of periods, or secondary, due to an underlying condition.
Primary Dysmenorrhea:
Primary dysmenorrhea is the name for menstrual cramps that come back every time you have get period, but aren’t due to another medical condition. Pain usually begins one or two days before you get your period or when the bleeding actually starts. You may feel pain ranging from mild to severe in your lower abdomen, back or thighs. The pain usually subsides within two or three days. Primary dysmenorrhea is the more common type of dysmenorrhea.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea:
If you have painful periods because of a condition or an infection in your reproductive organs, it’s secondary dysmenorrhea. Pain from secondary dysmenorrhea usually begins earlier in your menstrual cycle and lasts longer than typical menstrual cramps. For example, you may experience cramping several days before your period and the pain may last until the bleeding completely stops. Secondary dysmenorrhea is less common.r f4
Preventions Of Dysmenorrhea:
Smokers tend to have more risk for dysmenorrhea than nonsmokers. if you smoke, quit. Epidemiological studies show that overweight women are more risk for dysmenorrhea; losing weight may help reduce the severity of cramps.
Is having dysmenorrhea normal?
It’s normal to have some pain during menstruation. About 60% of people with a uterus have mild cramps during their period. About 5% to 15% of people report period pain that’s so severe that it affects their daily activities. However, this number is likely higher, as healthcare providers believe many people don’t report menstrual pain.