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Painful menstruation – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

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Painful menstruation – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment at Emirates Hospital Group

Painful periods can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Understanding the potential causes, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial. This discomfort can disrupt daily routines, making work, school, and social activities challenging. It’s important to remember that effective management strategies are available, and seeking medical advice can significantly improve well-being. Don’t hesitate to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional to find the best approach for you.

Causes:

Primary Dysmenorrhea: Painful periods without an identifiable underlying condition. Often begins shortly after menstruation starts, and may involve increased production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea: Painful periods caused by an underlying medical condition, such as:
- Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
- Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus.
- Adenomyosis: Endometrial tissue grows into the uterine muscle.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the reproductive organs.
- Cervical Stenosis: Narrowing of the cervix.

Diagnosis:

Medical History: Detailed information about menstrual cycles, pain, and other symptoms.
Physical Exam: Including a pelvic exam.
Pelvic Ultrasound: To visualize the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic structures.
Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure to visualize the pelvic organs and diagnose conditions like endometriosis.
Hysteroscopy: A procedure to examine the inside of the uterus.

Treatment:

Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) can help manage pain by reducing prostaglandin production.
Hormonal Birth Control: Pills, patches, rings, or injections can regulate hormones and reduce pain.
Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the abdomen can help relax muscles and ease cramps.
Exercise: Regular exercise can sometimes reduce menstrual pain.
Dietary Changes: Some women find relief through dietary modifications.
Acupuncture/Acupressure: Some women find these complementary therapies helpful.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat underlying conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.

Important Considerations:

Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe pain. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice for significant menstrual pain.
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life. Effective pain management is possible.