Painful periods

Painful periods or “dysmenorrhea” is associated with long-term, intermittent chronic pain associated with a woman’s menstrual cycle. Although some mild pain is common with a woman’s menstrual period, some women have severe pain with their periods. It may be caused by a prostaglandin, a hormone made by the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

It causes spasms or cramping of the uterus. There may be other causes such as endometriosis. Drugs that reduce inflammation, such as ibuprofen, can lessen the pain of dysmenorrhea. These drugs block the production of prostaglandins which cause the uterus to contract. Ibuprofen can be purchased over the counter. If these do not work, prescription medications may be necessary.

For other problems, treatment with hormones may help. Combination oral contraceptives (birth control pills) can be used to relieve pain from menstrual cramps. Other hormones can shrink some types of growths, such as endometriosis, fibroids and certain types of benign tumors.

If the pain is chronic and starts to be present most days of the month, a laparoscopic procedure may be recommended. With this procedure, a slender camera is inserted under the navel while you are under anesthesia to look for the causes of chronic pain.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Gynecology and Infertility Associates web site should be relied upon for medical education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a health care provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications.