Menstrual Cramps Research
Dysmenorrhea is a condition in which a woman has abdominal pain coming from uterine cramps during a menstrual period. It is a condition that affects as many as 50 percent of women during menstrual periods and can be severe with many of those affected. This condition probably interferes with daily activities of women more than any other complication of menstrual periods. The pain from dysmenorrhea is cramps that extend from the abdomen to the back and legs. It may be intermittent or it is a dull constant pain. The pain from dysmenorrhea starts early in the menstrual period and continues for about two days, then gradually disappears.
A number of things can help relieve much of the pain and distress of dysmenorrhea: A healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally, an optimistic outlook coupled with exercise, and good nutrition and weight control. Pain can be relieved by non-steroidal drugs such as ibuprophen and naproxen if directed by your doctor. Severe pain should warrant a consultation with your doctor for further treatment. Secondary dysmenorrhea treatment depends upon the cause as determined by your doctor. He has several options to present including surgery to widen a narrow cervical canal. Other options could be acupuncture or cutting the nerves to the uterus.
