|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| |
The main symptom of dysmenorrhea is pain. The pain is acute, intermittent, and is usually localized in the pubic area. Sometimes it radiates to the lower back and legs.
In primary dysmenorrhea, pain appears a few hours after the menstrual flow starts. It peaks during the cycle's first days, before subsiding at its end.
Besides pain, other symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea can include:
- Lower abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
Dysmenorrhea is often accompanied by heavy menstrual flow.
In secondary dysmenorrhea, the pain persists longer. It can appear several days before the menstrual flow and last until 2 or 3 days after the cycle ends.
The other symptoms accompanying secondary dysmenorrhea are the same as those associated with the primary form of the disorder. However, certain factors distinguish it from primary dysmenorrhea:
- Very irregular menstruation.
- Late onset of dysmenorrhea (after 25 years of age or after long periods without menstrual pain).
- Treatment with anti-inflammatory medications and oral contraceptives are ineffective.
|
|
|
