Dysmenorrhea (Menstrual Cramps)
Evaluation
General—crampy pelvic pain beginning just before or at the onset of menses and lasting 1 to 3 days
Etiology—thought to be from prostaglandin release in menstrual fluid, which causes uterine contraction and pain
Classification
Primary—typically begins in the first 6 months after menarche; normal pelvic anatomy
Epidemiology—prevalence ranges widely from 20% to 90%
Risk factors
Age 20 years or younger
Nulliparity
Heavy menses
Smoking
Weight loss attempts independent of body mass index (BMI)
Depression, anxiety, or disruption of social support network
Treatment
Mechanism of action—inhibit prostaglandin synthesisRelated posts:
Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Full access? Get Clinical Tree
