Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea is painful menstrual cramps. Primary dysmenorrhea is the pain, that accompanies periods only when secondary dysmenorrhea, due to underlying pathology, is excluded. Primary dysmenorrhea is the direct result of the peak levels of prostaglandins at menses in an ovulatory cycle. This results in increased rhythmic uterine contractions from vasoconstriction of the small vessels in the uterine wall. Increased prostaglandins synthesis may also cause gastrointestinal symptoms.
Secondary dysmenorrhea may include the effects of excess prostaglandins, as well as excessive uterine contractions secondary to an underlying pathology such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, infection, or another underlying problem. Your reproductive endocrinologist will carefully evalute your condition and recommend effective therapies for your individual situation.
