Understanding Dysmenorrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Uterine cramps, menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea, refers to lower abdominal pain before and during the menstrual period. The severity varies between women, and may even interfere with everyday activities. Conditions which may cause dysmenorrhea may include fibroids, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical stenosis and endometriosis

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Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- Uterine cramps

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms include throbbing or cramping lower abdominal pain which usually starts 1-3 days before the period and subsides in 2-3 days after it starts. Pain may radiate to the lower back and thighs. Other symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, headache and dizziness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and pelvic exam. Further evaluation may include pelvic ultrasound, imaging tests and a laparoscopy in rare cases.

Treatment

Treatment includes pain relieves, hormonal birth control, and in some cases even a surgical intervention.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital