Dysmenorrhea refers to severe pain associated with the menstrual cycle. It is classified as primary dysmenorrhea when there is no underlying pathology affecting the reproductive system, and secondary dysmenorrhea when the pain is caused by an identifiable condition, such as endometriosis. In primary dysmenorrhea, the pain is believed to result from uterine contractions and a temporary reduction in oxygen supply to the uterine muscle.
Symptoms of dysmenorrhea commonly include pain or pressure in the lower abdomen. Pain may also be felt in the hips, lower back, or inner thighs. It is usually described as cramping, but may also present as a dull, constant ache. Symptoms typically begin shortly before or during menstruation and may include nausea, diarrhea, frequent urination, depression or mood swings, and breast tenderness. There are natural approaches that may be helpful for women who suffer from PMS or dysmenorrhea.
The uterus is a muscular organ, and menstrual cramps are caused by contractions of the uterine muscle. During menstruation, these contractions become stronger. If the uterus contracts too forcefully, it can compress nearby blood vessels, temporarily reducing oxygen delivery to the muscle tissue. Pain occurs when the uterine muscle briefly loses its oxygen supply.
Secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
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Endometriosis — a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus
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Adenomyosis — a condition in which endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus
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Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) — a bacterial infection that begins in the uterus and may spread to other reproductive organs
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Cervical stenosis — narrowing of the cervical opening
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Uterine fibroids — benign growths on the inner wall of the uterus
This is not a complete list, and dysmenorrhea can sometimes be caused by more serious conditions. For this reason, self-diagnosis and self-treatment are not recommended.
