Review On Dysmenorrhea and Its Management

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea is otherwise known as period pain or painful menstruation. The symptoms of dysmenorrhea usually persist for 3 or less than 3 days. Dysmenorrhea is primarily associated with or without underlying causes, which include adenomyosis, uterine fibroid, and endometriosis. There are two types of dysmenorrhea, primary and secondary, in which the former is more common and less common. The risk factors are persons with heavy menstrual flow, irregular periods, those who attained menarche before the age of 12 years., as well as those who are malnourished with thin bodies. Based on a 2011 study, 65% of girls and women in India are affected by painful menstruation. The discomforts during dysmenorrhea are nausea, vomiting, GI disturbances, pain in the lower tummy, etc. Painful menstruation may affect the quality of life, feelings of hesitation, and discomfort in attending social events, and specially create a negative impact on the academic performance of young girl children. This may increase school absenteeism among young girls. Drugs, especially NSAIDs and other measures, are more helpful in decreasing menstrual pain and cramps.