Dysmenorrhea is severe pain associated with the menstrual cycle. It is considered to be primary when there is no other pathology affecting the reproductive system. It is considered secondary if it is due to pathology, like endometriosis. The pain in primary dysmeorrhea is believed to be caused by the uterus contracting and from lack of oxygen in the area.
Symptoms of dysmenorrhea include pain or pressure in the abdomen. It may also include pain in the hips, lower back or inner thighs. Pain is usually perceived as cramps, but may be a dull, constant ache. Symptoms usually begin shortly before or during menses (bleeding), and may include nausea, diarrhea, frequent urination, depression or mood swings, or breast tenderness. There are some natural approaches that are helpful to women who suffer from PMS or dysmenorrhea.
The uterus is muscular, and menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus. During menstruation, the uterus contracts more strongly. If the uterus contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels, cutting off the supply of oxygen to the muscle tissue of the uterus. Pain results when part of the muscle briefly loses its supply of oxygen.
Secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by a variety of conditions. These include:
- Endometriosis–A condition where tissue that normally lines the uterus is found elsewhere in the body.
- Adenomyosis–A condition where tissue lining the uterus grows into the muscle of the uterus.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)– An infection caused by bacteria that starts in the uterus and can spread to other reproductive organs.
- Cervical stenosis–Narrowing of the opening of the uterus.
- Uterine fibroids–Benign growths on the inner wall of the uterus.
This is not a complete list, and clearly dysmenorrhea can be caused by a more serious condition. This is why self-diagnosis and treatment is not a good idea.
