Pain, Menses and Menstrual Cramps

Pelvis | Gynecology | Pain, Menses and Menstrual Cramps (Symptom)


Description

The menstrual cramps, known in the medical field as dysmenorrhea, are defined as pain that occurs in the lower abdomen just before or during menstruation. Dysmenorrhea can be primary or secondary. It is called primary when no pathology causing the pain is presented by physiological factors. The secondary is due to some pathology, almost entirely due to a condition called endometriosis.

Causes

Menstrual cramps are the cramping in the lower abdomen, usually generated in the first or second day of the menstrual cycle. These are caused by uterine contractions and also by the passage of clotted blood through the cervix. Ibuprofen (Advil) or other analgesics may reduce the severity of cramps, some women report that exercise is also helpful.

Severe menstrual pain, particularly when combined with excessive bleeding or passage of large blood clots can sometimes be a sign of endometriosis or other female reproductive disorders. Menstrual cramps are also known as dysmenorrhea.

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