Dysmenorrhea

Christopher Hobbs

“Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation is associated with hormonal imbalances such as high estrogen levels, deficiencies of the blood, adrenal system or immune systems, weak digestion, and liver stagnation.”

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, can be classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is typically related to normal menstrual cycles and is due to the release of prostaglandins (hormonal compounds that cause uterine contractions). Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Etiologic and Other Factors:

1. Primary Dysmenorrhea:
   • Hormonal imbalance, especially high prostaglandin levels, leads to increased uterine contractions.
   • It is more common in younger women, particularly those under 30, and often improves with age or after childbirth.
2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea:
   • Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain.
   • Fibroids: Benign tumors in the uterus can cause heavy bleeding and cramping.
   • Adenomyosis: Endometrial tissue grows into the uterine muscle, leading to pain.
   • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infections of the reproductive organs that cause pain and inflammation.

When to Seek Professional Help:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Pain during other times of the month, not just during menstruation.
• Heavy menstrual bleeding (soaking through pads/tampons every hour or for several hours).
• Pain with intercourse or urination.
• Fever or unusual discharge, which could indicate an infection.
• Long-term pain that interferes with daily activities or affects quality of life.