This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea refers to painful menstrual periods. Pain can range from mild cramping to severe discomfort that affects daily activities. It is usually felt in the lower abdomen, back, or thighs.
2. How common is dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea is very common, affecting up to 50–70% of menstruating women at some point. Pain severity varies, and some women experience disabling pain during periods.
3. What causes dysmenorrhea?
There are two main types:
- Primary dysmenorrhea: Painful periods without an underlying condition, caused by increased prostaglandins that trigger uterine contractions.
- Secondary dysmenorrhea: Pain due to underlying conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, or adenomyosis.
4. What are the common symptoms?
- Cramping in the lower abdomen before or during periods
- Lower back or thigh pain
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headaches in some women
- Fatigue or dizziness
Secondary dysmenorrhea may cause pain throughout the menstrual cycle.
5. How is dysmenorrhea diagnosed?
A GP diagnoses dysmenorrhea based on:
- Medical history and menstrual patterns
- Physical and pelvic examination
- Ultrasound or other imaging if secondary causes are suspected
- Blood tests or laparoscopy in selected cases
6. How is dysmenorrhea treated?
Treatment depends on severity and cause:
- Over-the-counter pain relief: NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
- Hormonal therapy: Contraceptives to regulate or reduce periods
- Lifestyle: Regular exercise, heat therapy, and relaxation techniques
- Surgery or medical intervention: For secondary causes like endometriosis or fibroids
7. Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, applying heat packs, and dietary adjustments (e.g., reducing caffeine and salt) can help reduce pain and improve overall well-being.
8. Can dysmenorrhea affect fertility?
Primary dysmenorrhea usually does not affect fertility. Secondary dysmenorrhea, caused by conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, may impact fertility and requires assessment by a GP.
9. Is severe period pain normal?
Mild to moderate cramping is common, but pain that interferes with daily activities or causes missed school or work is not normal and should be evaluated by a GP to rule out underlying conditions.
10. When should I see a GP urgently?
Seek urgent medical advice if you experience:
- Sudden, severe pelvic pain
- Fever, vomiting, or fainting with periods
- Pain that worsens over time or is not relieved by usual medications
- Symptoms suggesting an infection or other underlying condition
