Primary Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps)
Routine menstrual cramps are clinically called primary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain not caused by other underlying conditions or diseases. If there is an underlying condition, such as endometriosis, that diagnosis is referred to as secondary dysmenorrhea.
Primary Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps) falls under theWomen’s Healthcategory.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Menstrual cramps, known medically as primary dysmenorrhea, refer to menstrual pain that occurs without any underlying disease and is more prevalent in younger individuals. Approximately two-thirds of young women worldwide experience these cramps, which typically decrease with age.
Menstrual cramps typically start a few days before menstruation and can last for several days afterward; they occur as sharp abdominal pain that may radiate to the back and legs. Additional symptoms can include nausea, sweating, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and diarrhea.
Menstrual cramps are diagnosed through a focused medical history and a routine pelvic exam that typically reveals no abnormal findings. If secondary causes like endometriosis are suspected, further evaluation such as ultrasound may be necessary.
The main medical treatments for menstrual cramps include over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (which reduce prostaglandin production and alleviate cramping) and occasionally oral contraceptive pills for significant primary dysmenorrhea. It's important to seek medical help if pain persists despite treatment or if there are concerning symptoms.
Several supplements have been studied for treatment of menstrual cramps, including cinnamon, ginger, chamomile, fennel, omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and boron.
Diet can influence menstrual cramps, and dieting to lose weight, skipping meals, and low antioxidant intake are associated with a higher risk, whereas higher consumption of fiber, fruits, vegetables, and dairy is associated with a reduced risk. However, the variability in studies of dietary assessment and menstrual pain measurement indicates that more research is needed to establish specific dietary recommendations for dysmenorrhea.
Self-care practices such as applying heat to the lower abdomen, exercising, taking hot baths, and engaging in yoga or meditation may help alleviate menstrual cramps.
Menstrual cramps are primarily caused by elevated prostaglandin levels that occur due to a drop in progesterone before menstruation. There is also some uncertain evidence that elevated vasopressin concentrations may contribute to this condition.
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