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| Painful menstruation (dysmenorrhoea) |
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Reviewed by Dr Philip Owen, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist
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What are menstrual pains?
Many women experience pain or discomfort at the time of their
periods. For most, the pain or unease is not so severe that it interferes with
their daily lives or requires any special attention.
However, for some women their monthly period is problematic and
almost disabling because of the pain and inconvenience caused. They may have to
take time off from school or work and stay at home for one or two days.
Although painful, periods are only sometimes a sign of an actual
disease.
If period pains are more than an inconvenience then it is wise
to consult your doctor or gynaecologist.
What causes menstrual pains?
The natural pains are caused by contractions in the musculature
of the uterus. The contractions are caused by the release of the body's
prostaglandins, which are hormones produced by the lining of the womb.
How can you avoid menstrual pains?
The best thing to do yourself, besides convincing yourself that
you are not sick, is to stay in good physical health. This can be achieved by a
healthy lifestyle with daily exercise, plenty of sleep and rest and, if
possible, try to avoid stress.
Over-the-counter painkillers, in particular ibuprofen (eg Advil,
Nurofen),
are
often helpful and your pharmacist can often give advise you further on which
ones are right for you.
What can the doctor do?
If your period pains are not relieved by simple painkillers then
your doctor may wish to perform a
pelvic examination to
rule out any underlying conditions that can cause dysmenorrhoea.
Depending on this, a pelvic
ultrasound scan or
laparoscopy may be
suggested. Medical treatment includes NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs) and also the
contraceptive pill.
By preventing ovulation the contraceptive pill reduces the
production of prostaglandins and pain. If the pain is found to be caused by a
condition such as
pelvic inflammatory
disease,
endometriosis or
fibroids, then the
treatment will be tailored towards that condition.
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Based on a text by Dr Erik Fangel Poulsen, specialist
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Last updated 16.02.2005
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