Dysmenorrhoea
Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for pain associated with menstruation. Dysmenorrhoea or menstrual cramps can occur just before or during menstrual periods. During the cycle, the uterus contracts to shed its lining which is triggered by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins that cause pain or menstrual cramps. The severity of menstrual cramps vary widely and can interfere with day-to-day activities.
Dysmenorrhoea can be of two types:
- Primary which is the most common type caused due to severe uterine contractions during menstrual cycles.
- Secondary type of dysmenorrhoea begins in later stages mostly due to other underlying causes such as fibroids. The pain in secondary dysmenorrhoea is more severe.
Causes
Dysmenorrhoea can be caused by:
- Excess production of prostaglandin
- Ischemia
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Cervical stenosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Adenomyosis
- Use of contraceptive devices
- Cancers or tumours in the uterus
Symptoms
Symptoms of dysmenorrhoea may include:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Severe bleeding during menstrual cycle
- Pain that may radiate to lower back and thighs
- Pain that peaks 24 hours after the onset of your periods
- Nausea and fatigue
- Headache
- Diarrhea
Diagnosis
Diagnosing the cause of Dysmenorrhea, if any associated disorder is suspected, involves:
- Medical history
- Physical exam
- Pelvic exam
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- MRI
- X-ray
- Laparoscopy
- Hysteroscopy
Prevention
Dysmenorrhoea can be prevented to an extent by the following measures:
- Regular physical exercise
- Maintain healthy weight
- Reduce stress
- Avoid spicy and oily foods
- Avoid intake of alcohol, caffeines, tea
- Avoid smoking.
Treatment
- Dysmenorrhoea can be prevented to an extent by the following measures:
- Regular physical exercise
- Maintain healthy weight
- Reduce stress
- Avoid spicy and oily foods
- Avoid intake of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
- Avoid smoking.
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