Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), experienced by a large majority of menstruating women, refers to cramp-like pains in the pelvic area before or during menstruation. Dysmenorrhea can be primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea typically begins with the onset of menstruation and usually decreases or disappears around age 25 or after childbirth. There is no underlying pathological cause for primary dysmenorrhea. However, secondary dysmenorrhea leads to painful periods and is often indicative of a specific underlying disease.
Causes of Dysmenorrhea
During menstruation, the uterine muscles contract to expel accumulated blood, and these contractions cause pain. During these contractions, substances called prostaglandins are released, which are responsible for uterine contractions. If a woman has primary dysmenorrhea, it means that the production of prostaglandins is excessive. Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by problems such as pelvic inflammatory diseases, cervical stenosis, uterine tumors (myomas), endometriosis, or abnormalities in uterine position.
Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea
- ligament pain
- Back pain
- Nausea – vomiting
- Dizziness
- Extreme sensitivity on the inner surfaces of the legs.
In women experiencing dysmenorrhea, symptoms are severe in approximately 10 to 15 out of 1 TP3T. The pain is intense enough to affect daily life. If the pain is more severe than usual, lasts longer than 2-3 days, is not accompanied by normal menstrual bleeding, or is different from usual pain, it is essential to consult a specialist to determine the source of the problem and receive treatment.
Dysmenorrhea Treatment
If the pain accompanying dysmenorrhea is moderate, it can usually be managed with painkillers. In such cases (especially if menstruation is regular), the person can reduce the severity of the pain by starting to take painkillers a few days before menstruation begins, rather than waiting for the onset of menstrual pain.
If menstrual periods are accompanied by severe pain, bed rest and warm compresses applied to the abdominal area should be recommended. Another treatment option is the use of birth control pills. Birth control pills help eliminate cramps by reducing prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain. Alternatively, in cases of severe pain, injectable pain relievers can be used.
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