What is Dysmenorrhoea?

Dysmenorrhoea is the condition of painful menstruation typically involving abdominal cramps caused by uterine contractions. The uterine lining produces hormone like substances (prostaglandins) that cause the muscle of the uterus to contract strongly. If it contracts too strongly during the cycle, it can press the nearby blood vessels thus reducing blood flow & cutting off the supply of oxygen to the uterus. This lack of oxygen causes pain & cramping.

There are two types of Dysmenorrhoea:

• Primary: Primary Dysmenorrhoea is a condition that causes common menstrual cramps which are recurrent and are not caused by any underlying disease. The pain usually commences 1 or 2 days before the menstrual bleeding starts and is experienced in the lower abdomen, back or thighs. The pain can range from mild to severe lasting for 12 to 72 hours. The cramps usually become less frequent and painful as a woman ages.
• Secondary:Secondary Dysmenorrhoea results in cramps that are caused by a disorder in the woman’s reproductory organs. Conditions such as Endometriosis, Adenomyosis, Uterine Fibroids or infection are responsible for its causation. Pain from secondary dysmenorrhoea usually begins earlier in the menstrual cycle and lasts longer than common menstrual cramps. The condition may occur at any age but is most common among women aged 20-45.