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Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual periods.
There are two types of dysmenorrhea:
- Primary dysmenorrhea – the most common form, with painful cramping in the lower abdomen starting 1 to 2 days before a menstrual period and lasting 2 to 4 days
- Secondary dysmenorrhea – when cramps are the result of a medical problem such asendometriosis
Patients can be seen by Texas Children's experts in Adolescent Medicine and Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology.
Causes & Risk Factors
The painful cramps are caused by the uterus (a muscle) contracting, or squeezing tight and then relaxing, to push the blood out. During the first few days of a girl’s period, the body releases special chemicals that make these contractions even stronger, or more painful.
Symptoms & Types
Symptoms may include:
- Abdominal cramps that limit activity
- Lower back pain
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
Diagnosis & Tests
Diagnosis starts with a detailed medical history and thorough physical and abdominal exam. A pelvic exam may be conducted in some cases.
A healthcare provider may ask a woman to keep a detailed record of her period and the pain experienced – when, where, for how long, and how relief is obtained.
Treatment & Care
Treatment strategies include:
- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium
- Oral contraceptive pills (birth control pills) – to stop the periods and associated pain
- Heating pad or warm baths
- Exercise
- Healthy diet
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