DYSMENORRHEA

Dysmenorrhea is defined as painful periods (menstrual cramp). It is more common in younger women.


  • Symptoms of dysmenorrhea
  • Causes
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
Symptoms of dysmenorrhea

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes this pain extends to lower back and thighs. Usually the pain starts immediately before or with menstruation and lasts for a few days. For some women, this pain can be very intense and debilitating. Other associated symptoms maybe : dizziness, nausea, tiredness, headache, diarrhea…

Causes

During menstruation, prostaglandins are formed in the uterus. These chemicals cause the uterine muscle to contract. Contractions of the uterus result in decreased blood and oxygen flow to the uterus which in turn causes pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is by history and physical exam. Sometimes an ultrasound is necessary

Treatment

NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications). These can be prescribed or can be bought over the counter.

Birth control pills or other forms of hormonal birth control such as patch, Mirena IUD, etc…

Non-pharmacologic treatments – may not be as effective as medication but can be combined with medication.

Heat – can be used in combination with NSAIDs.

Dietary, vitamin, and herbal treatments – there isn’t enough scientific evidence for safety and efficacy of such supplementation. There is some evidence that ginger may help.

Exercise – some studies showed regular exercise can reduce dysmenorrhea.

Yoga and acupuncture.

Dr. Tamar Achjian ObGyn Abu Dhabi
VIEW PROFILE

DR. TAMAR ACHJIAN

Dr Raquel Martinez
VIEW PROFILE

DR. RAQUEL MARTINEZ

Dr. Zeudi Ramsey-Marcelle
VIEW PROFILE

DR. ZEUDI RAMSEY-MARCELLE

dalida-omar-badla
VIEW PROFILE

DR. DALIDA OMAR BADLA

Dr. Helen Cannon
VIEW PROFILE

DR. HELEN CANNON



fab adcb instalment plan


Quick links

PREGNANCY & MATERNITY CAREBREAST CANCERMENOPAUSE

REVIEW US ON GOOGLE


Opening Hours


Monday – Saturday
8:00 am – 8:00 pm

Sunday
Family Hub(GP)
Physiotherapy
Dental Clinic



Harley Street Abu Dhabi JCI




Subscribe


Sign up with your mobile number to be the first to know about our latest offers & discounts.




    Copyright © Harley Street Medical Centre 2024 | MOH : HX7WC25Y-160724 16/07/2025

    CALL
    026133999
    ONLINE
    APPOINTMENT
    ONLINE
    Appointment
    BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
    ONLINE
    Appointment
    Scan the code