Mild discomfort is common with menstrual periods, but some women experience pain during their menstrual cycles. When menstrual cramps cause pain, it is called dysmenorrhea. There are different types and causes of dysmenorrhea, which may need treatment to provide menstrual cramp pain relief. At FEM Women’s Wellness, we offer dysmenorrhea treatment at our clinic in Reno, NV.
Primary dysmenorrhea refers to pain caused by menstrual cramps that occur month after month. The pain is due to the contraction of the uterus, contractions that become more severe during your period. Most women with primary dysmenorrhea have mild to severe pain in the days before their period, usually lasting 1-3 days. The pain may be felt in the pelvic region, lower back or legs, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is painful periods that are not caused directly by the menstrual cramps but due to another condition that affects the reproductive organs. Secondary dysmenorrhea tends to last longer through the month than just a few days at the beginning of the menstrual period.
Menstrual Cramp Pain Relief
Most women with primary dysmenorrhea can find relief using pain medications, lifestyle changes and conservative treatments like heating pads, massage and anti-inflammatory medications. For severe cramps, using oral contraceptives can provide pain relief and milder period symptoms for many women.
If you have secondary dysmenorrhea from conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis, PID or other conditions, treatment for the related condition may give you relief from your menstrual pain. You may require medication or even surgical treatment to remedy the secondary condition that is causing you to experience painful menstrual cramps.
Dysmenorrhea can be debilitating for some women. Severe pain for multiple days each month can result in days missed from school or work. If you are experiencing abnormal menstrual pain, there are treatments to give you relief and improve your quality of life.
You do not need to live with painful muscle cramps each month. If you have primary or secondary dysmenorrhea, come see our compassionate gynecological providers at FEM Women’s Wellness. Contact our clinic in the Carson City, Reno and Lake Tahoe, NV, area to schedule an exam and consultation for dysmenorrhea.