Overview
Pain during menstruation is also known as dysmenorrhea. There are two types which are primary dysmenorrhea due to anatomical, functional and psychosomatic factors and secondary dysmenorrhea where the cause is due to underlying gynaecological condition.Signs and Symptoms
Lower abdominal pain, Abdominal cramps, Back pain, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, PallorCommon Causes
Cervical stenosis, Chronic pelvic infections, Endometriosis, Pelvic adhesions, Adenomyosis, Uterine fibroid, Endometrial polyp, Intrauterine deviceRisk Factors
Age, Nulliparity, Heavy menstrual flow, SmokingInvestigation Techniques
Abdominal and pelvic examination, Vaginal examination, Ultrasound, CT scan, LaparoscopyTreatment and Prevention
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), Progesterone synthase inhibitors, Oral contraceptive pills, Dilation and curettage of cervix, Surgery depending on the condition and severity, Rest, Drink plenty of water, Apply heat pad, Stop smokingPsychological Issues
Stress, Anxiety
