Dysmenorrhea
You do not have to live with severe period pain. We are here to help you find a treatment plan that works for you.
Dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual periods. While some cramping during your period is normal, severe pain that interferes with your daily activities is not. It is one of the most common problems women report to their providers.
- There are two types of dysmenorrhea:
This is the most common type of period pain. It’s caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins, which make your uterus contract to shed its lining. The pain usually starts a day or two before your period and lasts for the first few days. It is not caused by another medical condition.
This pain is caused by an underlying medical condition in the reproductive organs, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or adenomyosis. This type of pain often gets worse over time and may last longer than typical menstrual cramps.
Common Symptoms
Besides cramping in the lower abdomen, you might also experience:
- Pain in your lower back, hips, or inner thighs
- Headache and dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fatigue
How to Manage Period Pain at Home
These strategies can help provide relief from mild to moderate period pain.
Use a heating pad or take a warm bath to help relax the uterine muscles.
Gentle physical activity like walking, yoga, or stretching can increase blood flow and reduce pain.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are very effective.
- Examples: Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) or Naproxen (Aleve®).
- How they work: NSAIDs lower the amount of prostaglandins your body makes.
- Tip: For best results, take the medication as soon as you feel pain starting, or even the day before you expect your period to begin. Always follow the directions on the bottle unless instructed otherwise by your provider.
In the days leading up to your period, try to:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Limit salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, which can cause bloating and inflammation.
- Eat foods rich in magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, like leafy greens, nuts, and fish.
Stress can make pain worse. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
Medical Treatment Options
If at-home care isn't enough, your provider may discuss other options with you.
The pill, patch, ring, shot, implant, or hormonal IUD can reduce or eliminate period pain. They work by thinning the uterine lining (which means lighter periods and fewer prostaglandins) and sometimes preventing ovulation altogether.
If OTC doses aren’t working, your doctor can prescribe a stronger medication.
If your doctor suspects secondary dysmenorrhea, they may recommend an ultrasound or other tests to look for an underlying cause.
When to Call the Clinic
It's important to schedule an appointment with us if you experience any of the following:
- Your pain is severe and prevents you from going to work or school.
- Your cramps suddenly get worse or change in pattern.
- You are experiencing heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every 1-2 hours).
- OTC pain relievers are not providing any relief.
- You have a fever along with your period pain.
- You experience pain even when you are not on your period.