Women who have menstrual periods that are so painful they disrupt their daily life activities are suffering from what is medically known as dysmenorrhea. Though there ways to cope with painful menstrual periods, many women want to know what is causing the problem. Here are some of the symptoms and potential causes of dysmenorrhea.
Symptoms of Painful Menstrual Periods
Severe menstrual cramps and lower abdominal pain are the two most noticeable signs of dysmenorrhea. Though most women experience some level of cramping, the pain will usually be extreme enough to prevent the woman from being able to function regularly. Over-the-counter pain medications can offer some relief, but some women may still continue to experience severe menstrual cramps.
Other symptoms of dysmenorrhea include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and a pulling feeling in the inner thighs, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Women who suffer from painful menstrual periods are also more likely to experience a heavier flow. They may also find that menstruation lasts at least seven days.
What Causes Painful Menstruation?
Uterine fibroids and endometriosis are both gynecological conditions which can be causes of dysmenorrhea, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center. Other gynecological problems which can lead to painful menstrual periods include a titled or tipped uterus, inflamed fallopian tubes, and scar tissue or adhesions.
There are other possible causes of painful menstrual periods that might not necessarily seem directly related. Low levels of physical activity and high levels of emotional stress can both lead to dysmenorrhea, according to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Exercising regularly and/or finding ways to reduce stress and anxiety can help reduce painful menstruation.
Any woman who experiences dysmenorrhea should be sure to talk to her doctor about the problem. Treatment options or methods of coping with painful menstrual periods often depend on the cause. In some cases, surgery may be required. On the other hand, there are some cases in which taking the birth control pill may be recommended to reduce blood flow and the length of menstruation. Ultimately, talking to your doctor and determining the cause of painful menstrual periods is the best thing that you can do to try to solve this uncomfortable problem.
Sources:
Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, “Dysmenorrhea” (accessed November 10, 2010).
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Dysmenorrhea” (accessed November 10, 2010).
The National Women’s Health Information Center, “Menstruation and the Menstrual Cycle” (accessed November 10, 2010).
Jody Morse - Jody Morse is a freelance writer from the Poconos. She earned her B.A. in English from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania in ...
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