Prostaglandins are the triggering factors for uterine muscle contractions which is responsible for pain and inflammation. Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by plenty of conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, use of intrauterine device and uterine fibroids and uterine polyps. Most women experience the symptoms like dull or throbbing pain in the lower abdomen, pain which radiates to lower back and thighs, nausea and vomiting, sweating, loose stools and dizziness.
For screening and diagnosis of Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps), some tests are recommended by the doctor such as imaging tests including computerized tomography (CT), ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), laparoscopy and hysteroscopy.
Secondary dysmenorrhea needs the medical treatment. The treatment of Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps) is based upon age, medical history and overall health of the patient, cause of condition, extent of condition and patient’s tolerance for particular medications, therapies and procedures. The prostaglandin inhibitors (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin) are beneficial to reduce the pain. They prevent synthesis of prostaglandins, reduce the contractions of uterus and decrease the menstrual flow. Other medications such as acetaminophen, oral contraceptives, progesterone (hormone treatment) are beneficial pain relief measures.
There are some self care measures to get relief from the pains of dysmenorrhea. They include hot baths, placing heating pad on the abdomen and aerobic exercise like swimming, walking, bicycling, running and aerobic dance. Abdominal massage is also found to be effective to relieve dysmenorrhea pains.
