What is Dysmenorrhea?

There are two kinds of Dysmenorrhea: Primary and Seondary. Primary is painful symptoms during the menstrual cycle. Secondary is painful symptoms due to an existing condition, like Endometriosis. 

Symptoms:

• Pain during menstrual cycle
• Pain in the legs, abdomen, hips, and thighs during menstrual cycle

Causes:

• Cramps occur when the uterus tightens and spasms
• Secondary occurs when there is an existing condition that can affect the periods

Treatments:

• Pain meds
• Heat
• Rest
• Eating healthier to reduce uterine cramping
• Exercise to reduce uterine cramping 
• Warm showers or baths
• Elevate your legs
• If bad enough your doctor can provide birth control to stop/lighten your periods

Statistics

• This is an extremely common disorder; over half of women report having terrible cramping during their periods

See your doctor if:

• You experience sudden or severe pain
• Treatments do not help after 3 months
• You experience worsening pain during your periods

References:

• Cleveland Clinic 
• MedlinePlus 
• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists