This condition refers to the pain or discomfort associated with menstruation.

Although not a serious medical problem, its usually meant to describe a woman with menstrual symptoms severe enough to keep her from functioning for a day or two each month. The pain is typically described as dull, aching, cramping and often radiates to the lower back

Two Forms of Dysmenorrhea

Primary Dysmenorrhea(spasmodic)
-usually begins with a first period and is heralded by cramping lower abdominal pains starting just before or with the menstrual flow and continuing during menstruation. It is often associated with nausea, vomiting, headache, faintness and symptoms of peripheral vasodilation. The cause is thought to be related to excessive prostaglandin production.

 Secondary Dysmenorrhea (congestive)

- usually affects older women who complain of a congested ache with lower abdominal cramps, which usually starts from a few days to two weeks before menstruation. Causes include pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, fibroids, and the presence of an IUCD.

Excessive production of prostaglandin, the chemicals that cause the uterus to contact. Hormonal disorders. Endometriosis. Fibroids (benign tumors in the uterus) which the uterus may try to expel. IUD (intrauterine contraceptives device) or other foreign body in the uterus, which the uterus may try to expel. Pelvic infection or inflammation. Disorders of the reproductive organs (e.g., cysts tumors).

Mild to severe cramps in the lower abdomen, which may come and go in waves. Dull ache in the lower back, hips or thighs. Headaches. Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Hot or cold sensations. Diarrhea, in some cases. Fainting, in some cases

Physical examination

Blood tests
Pelvic examination

 Pain related to dysmenorrhea Activity intolerance related to pain

Antiprostaglandin drugs Lying on your back, supporting your knees with a pillow Hot bath Place a heating pad on your abdomen Exercise regularly Gently massaging your abdomen Getting plenty of rest and avoiding stressful situations as your period approaches

Ask client to apply heat (e.g., warm baths putting a hot water bottle or heating pads on the abdomen). Ask client to drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol. Ask client to do regular exercise, particularly aerobics (cycling, jogging, brisk walking).

Fainting - from severe menstrual cramps Abdominal pain Back pain

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