Dysmenorrhoea

Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is lower abdominal pain
experienced during a menstrual period.

DESCRIPTION

Period pain is very common with some studies indicating that
approximately 75 percent of young women and 25 to 50 percent of
adult women experience pain and discomfort during their period. For
up to 20 percent of women, Period pain interferes significantly
with everyday life.

 

Primary dysmenorrhoea

The Period pain most women experience is only a side effect of
the body’s natural menstrual process. Most period pain is not the
result of any underlying medical condition. This normal
menstruation that happens to be painful is known as primary
dysmenorrhoea.

Period pain occurs when the muscular wall of the womb (uterus)
contracts to dispel the thickened lining. In primary dysmenorrhoea,
it is thought that this muscular contraction is stronger than
normal. These contractions may also hamper blood flow to the
uterus, exacerbating the pain. Some women find that periods are
less painful after pregnancy and childbirth.

 

Secondary dysmenorrhoea

Secondary dysmenorrhoea is less common and refers to period
pain caused by an underlying condition affecting the uterus such as
endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease etc. Secondary
dysmenorrhoea usually causes a change in the intensity and/or
duration of your normal pattern of pain. For example, you may find
your period pain has significantly increased, or that it lasts for
much longer than normal. If you have secondary dysmenorrhoea, you
may also experience other symptoms, such as:

• irregular periods,
• bleeding in-between periods,
• thick or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, and
• pain during sex.

 

The main symptom of period pain is painful muscle cramps in
your lower abdomen. Period pain can sometimes spread to your lower
back and your thighs. You may also notice that the pain you
experience varies with each period. Some periods may cause you
little or no discomfort, while others may be far more painful.
Typically, the pain commences on or before the start of the
menstrual period and the first 24 hours are usually the most
painful.

 

As well as experiencing pain in your abdomen, you may also
experience a number of other symptoms, such as:

• Headaches 
• Nausea 
• Tiredness
• Feeling faint
• Dizziness and
• Digestive upsets, such as diarrhoea or constipation.

 

As with all medical conditions it is advisable to consult your
Doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Most cases of
period pain can be managed at home. There are a number of medicines
you can purchase over the counter (OTC) to help manage your pain.
Your Doctor will diagnose and treat any underlying problems that
may be causing secondary dysmenorrhoea. For cases of primary
dysmenorrhoea, the following suggestions may help to reduce the
severity of the pain:

• Exercise – regular exercise and attention to overall physical
  fitness may help to manage period pain. Try some gentle swimming,
  walking or cycling. 
• Heat – applying heat to your abdomen with a heat pad or hot
  water bottle can help to ease your pain. 
• Warm bath, or shower – taking a bath or shower can helps to
  relieve the pain, while also helping you to relax. 
• Massage – light circular massage around your lower abdomen may
  help. 
• Relaxation techniques – you might want to try a relaxing
  activity, such as yoga or pilates, to help distract you from
  feelings of pain and discomfort. 
• Transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS) – a TENS
  machine works by releasing small electrical impulses through sticky
  pads (electrodes) that are placed on your skin. This stimulates the
  nerves in your pelvic area, helping to block pain. 
• Oral contraceptive pill – if you need contraception, as well as
  relief from period pain, your GP may prescribe you a combined oral
  contraceptive pill.

 

See the Dysmenorrhoea – Supplements topic on the
Healthpoint.
 

1. Ask your Pharmacist for advice about pain killers and
   anti-inflammatory medicines for the management of Period pain.
2. Heat packs and hot water bottles are available from your
   Pharmacy.
3. Rest as much as possible, particularly on the first day of your
   period. Light exercise, may also be helpful when exertion is
   possible. 
4. Some nutritional supplements may be suggested if the diet is
   inadequate. See the Dysmenorrhoea – Supplements topic for more
   information.

 

Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 years of age
unless specified by a Doctor.