7 Facts About Dysmenorrhea That You Should Know

Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstruation. For millions of women around the world, this is not just a temporary inconvenience, but a real challenge that can affect their quality of life, their ability to work, and even their psycho-emotional condition. The pain can be stabbing, cramping, or dull, localized in the lower abdomen and radiating to the back or legs. Here is a list of seven facts about dysmenorrhea to help you better understand what you are dealing with and what you can do about it.

1. There are two types of dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea can be primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in girls and women without visible diseases of the reproductive system. It usually begins during puberty, 1-2 years after the onset of menstruation. Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is associated with gynecological diseases such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, etc. If pain occurs after several years of painless menstruation, this is a reason to consult a doctor.

2. Severe pain during periods is not normal

Many women endure pain for years, believing that it is "natural", that "everyone is like this", and that "enduring it means being strong". But in reality, this is not the case. Severe pain, especially if it interferes with your life, work, or studies, or requires constant use of painkillers, is a reason to consult a doctor. Modern medicine offers many ways to relieve a woman's discomfort during menstruation.

3. Not only can uterine contractions cause period pain

In primary dysmenorrhea, pain occurs due to excessive production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that stimulate uterine contractions. This is necessary for the rejection of the uterine lining, but in some women, there is an increased production of prostaglandins, which is why the contractions become too intense and painful. Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by anatomical changes, inflammations, or tumors that disrupt the normal function of the pelvic organs.

4. Dysmenorrhea may be accompanied by other symptoms

Menstrual pain is just the tip of the iceberg. Dysmenorrhea may be accompanied by headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, fatigue, irritability, and even fainting. Some women also experience mood swings, insomnia, and anxiety before and during their period. These symptoms can seriously affect daily life.

5. Lifestyle directly affects the severity of symptoms

Physical activity, sleep patterns, stress levels, and diet can affect the amount of pain you experience during your period. Regular moderate physical activity (like swimming, yoga, and Pilates) can reduce the severity of symptoms. Smoking, in turn, can worsen the dysmenorrhea because nicotine promotes vasoconstriction, thereby impairing blood supply to the pelvic organs.

6. Self-medication can be dangerous

Women often take painkillers (ibuprofen, paracetamol) without consulting a doctor. Although pain medications may relieve the pain in the short term, they don't solve the underlying problem. Uncontrolled use of strong medications without a diagnosis is especially dangerous. In addition, some conditions (such as a ruptured cyst or an ectopic pregnancy) can be accompanied by pain similar to dysmenorrhea. That's why it is essential not to ignore the body's signals.

7. There are effective treatments

Modern gynecology offers a wide range of solutions: from hormone therapy and physiotherapy to surgical interventions (in the case of secondary dysmenorrhea). Your doctor may prescribe combined oral contraceptives that lower prostaglandin levels, or draw up a personalized treatment plan based on the cause of your pain. Dietary supplements containing magnesium, vitamin B6, omega-3 fatty acids, and herbal extracts (such as chasteberry or ginger) may also be helpful.

The bottom line

Dysmenorrhea is not something that "every woman should have". When menstruation becomes a monthly burden, it is a signal that the body needs help. It is essential not to endure the pain, but to look for the cause and ways to relieve the symptoms.