Dysmenorrhea is nothing but menstrual cramps which are experienced during the menstrual cycle. Also known as period pains, the menstrual cramps are extremely painful sensations that may occur in the lower abdomen region, thighs and legs. Though these sensations and the cramping may occur before or after the menstrual periods of a woman, they are usually experienced during the periods.


The pain experienced due to dysmenorrhea can be extremely painful or very dull. Usually, menstrual cramps begin only after the egg has been released from the ovaries. As the egg travels down the fallopian tubes and reaches the uterus, the contractions taking place inside the uterus may cause the cramping sensations.




If the egg is not fertilized and passes through the uterus unattached, the uterus begins to shed its protective lining which it had prepared in anticipation of a fertilized egg. To expel the lining, the uterus usually contracts and expands. It is the uterine contractions which are experienced in the form of painful cramps. With each contraction, the blood flow to the lining of the uterus is inhibited and therefore, the pain can be further intensified. Dysmenorrhea symptoms can be seen in almost all women who have their periods. Depending on the dysmenorrhea symptoms, there are two categories—primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. In primary dysmenorrhea, the dysmenorrhea symptoms are most apparent in the lower abdomen. There is severe pain in the lower back region as well as the lower abdomen and the pain can begin a few days before the menstrual bleeding occurs. The pain could last from two to four days. Primary dysmenorrhea treatment has yet not been identified. Pain killers are the only possible treatment for now. In secondary dysmenorrhea, the dysmenorrhea symptoms are associated with other underlying medical conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and uterine fibroids. Of the women that experience dysmenorrhea symptoms, 15% have extremely painful cramps. Women who have sedentary lives are more prone to experiencing dysmenorrheal pain.

Since the dysmenorrhea causes are related to the menstrual cycle, there is not much in the way of treatment. However, there are ways in which the dysmenorrhea symptoms may be prevented. Limiting the intake of fats and alcohol, and increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables can usually help in preventing dysmenorrhea. Reducing stress and exercising on a regular basis are also important for preventing dysmenorrhea symptoms. If you smoke, it is best to quit smoking as well.