Dysmenorrhea; Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Women suffering from extreme menstrual pain suffer immensely and are unable to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is essential to focus on physical and psychological health. Women experiencing extreme pain during menstruation should consider it a sign of illness and consult a gynecologist in Lahore. A specialist will run multiple tests and provide guidance regarding the treatment that would help enhance the quality of life.

What Is Dysmenorrhea And Its Types?

Dysmenorrhea refers to the severe and recurrent cramps that women experience during menstruation. There are two types of dysmenorrhea:

• Primary Dysmenorrhea: Primary dysmenorrhea is also known as common menstrual cramps. It is not correlated to other illnesses. Women experience common menstrual cramps their entire life. The pain and cramp begin 2-3 days prior to bleeding. The pain in the abdominal region may vary from mild to severe.
• Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused due to infection or other underlying problems. The symptoms last longer in this condition.

What Are The Causes Of Dysmenorrhea?

The causes of dysmenorrhea include:

• The primary dysmenorrhea is due to the contractions in the uterus. There is an imbalance in the chemicals due to which women experience pain and cramps for up to 72 hours.
• The common causes for secondary dysmenorrhea include endometriosis, infection, tumor in the pelvic cavity, uterine fibroids, miscarriage, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

What Are The Signs And Indications Of Dysmenorrhea?

The symptoms of dysmenorrhea are:

• Women may feel nauseous before bleeding
• Mild to severe cramps in the abdominal region
• Mild to severe pain in the abdominal region
• Experience back aches before and during menstruation
• Vomiting and diarrhea before the menstruation cycle begins
• May experience headaches
• Extreme weakness and fatigue
• May faint during or before the menstruation cycle begins

What Tests Help In Diagnosing Dysmenorrhea?

• Evaluating the Medical History: The specialist would take the medical history and conduct a physical exam to check the severity of the condition.
• Imaging Test: Ultrasound and MRIs help in creating images of the organs and identify the abnormalities that may correlate to the physical condition.
• Hysteroscopy: The instrument is inserted through the vagina to examine the cervix.
• Laparoscopy: A laparoscope is inserted through the abdominal wall. The test helps in the identification of any abnormal growth that has resulted in the severe cramps and pain that the patient has been experiencing.

Who Is At A Higher Risk Of Developing The Condition?

• Women in the habit of smoking can experience extreme pain
• Consumption of alcohol during the period increases the chances of severe cramps and pain
• Women suffering from obesity
• Women who start their period at an early age
• Women who have not conceived have higher chances of experiencing a painful period.

What Are The Treatment Options For Dysmenorrhea?

The treatment includes:

• Medication: Prostaglandin inhibitors and NSAIDs are recommended to reduce the pain. Ibuprofin and aspirin are used to provide instant relief.
• Change in the lifestyle: Intake of High protein and low carbohydrates in the diet are proven beneficial to maintain healthy body weight. Also, exercise helps in maintaining a balance in the hormones.
• Hysterectomy: Surgical procedure to remove the uterus.
• Endometrial ablation: to destroy the lining of the uterus
• Endometrial resection: For removing the lining of the uterus.

Who Can Help With The Diagnoses And Treatment?

Women experiencing extreme pain and cramps should consider consulting the best gynecologist in Karachi. Individuals should prioritize their physical health and notice any symptoms that occur to be alarming. Secondary dysmenorrhea can cause other problems; hence, it is best to get diagnosed and opt for an effective treatment plan for living a healthier and prosperous life.