Health Guide©

DYSMENORRHEA

(Menstrual cramps, Menstrual pain, Painful period)

In patients with dysmenorrhea, nursing management includes obtaining complete history on patient's gynecologic complaints. These include detailed information on any symptoms of pelvic disease such as excessive bleeding, changes in the bleeding pattern, vaginal discharge, and dyspareuria.

Dysmenorrhea or menstrual pain is common in teenage girls and women in their early twenties, although the pain usually eases off or eventually disappears after the age of 25, or after childbirth. Dysmenorrhea is caused by the contractions of the uterus, which temporarily cut blood supply to this organ. Sometimes, however, the pain is due to more serious under lying causes (e.g., ectopic pregnancy, fibroid, tumors).

Symptoms:

Symptoms start on the first day of menstruation and subside within one to two days. These are the following:

• Mild to severe cramps in the lower abdomen, which may come and go in waves.
• Dull ache in the lower back, hips or thighs.
• Headaches.
• Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
• Hot or cold sensations.
• Diarrhea, in some cases.
• Fainting, in some cases

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