What is Dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea refers to crampy abdominal pain that occurs in adolescent females before or during their period. It is extremely common and usually first occurs months to years after an adolescent has their first period.
Dysmenorrhea is believed to be mainly caused by a chemical called prostaglandin. But it can also be caused by other problems in the pelvis, such as endometriosis.
Usually, these other problems are only considered if basic treatment methods fail to help manage the symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
Besides abdominal pain and cramping, other symptoms of dysmenorrhea might include:
Dysmenorrhea Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis can be made after taking a good history and doing a physical exam. No blood or imaging tests are necessary.
If simple, or primary, dysmenorrhea is suspected, the treatment focuses on targeting pain. This may include:
- Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen or naproxen
- Heat therapy and exercise
- Hormonal treatment such as oral contraceptives are considered as a second line treatment or for a sexually active adolescent
If none of these basic treatments work, your provider might consider looking for another cause of your child’s pain.
See your Doctor in Person If…
- The cramping or pain is severe
- The pain does not improve with pain medications
- Pain occurs at other times other than around periods