Women have been dividing menstrual cramps into categories since the
beginning of time: bearable and miserable. Meanwhile, the medical
world has had them split into primary dysmenorrhea and secondarydysmenorrhea.
At one end of the spectrum (or should I say speculum?) the mildest form of
menstrual cramps are sometimes just a minor discomfort, a heavy feeling
in the abdominal region. Women suffering the most extreme menstrual cramps
are sometimes forced to change their regular routine for a few days.
In primary dysmenorrhea, there is no underlying physical condition
causing the pain. Secondary dysmenorrhea involves another physical
condition, usually gynecological (related to a woman’s reproductive system).
Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea
The most common sign of both primary and secondary dysmenorrhea include a throbbing
pain or a dull ache in the lower abdomen and pelvis that might radiate to the
lower back and/or legs.
The cramps usually began shortly before the onset of the period and peak
within 24 hours. Some women also experience headaches, nausea, vomiting, or
dizziness. The prostaglandin found in both the uterus and intestinal tract
causes smooth muscles to retract, therefore some women are prone to experience
diarrhea or constipation during menstruation.
Risk Factors
Most things that put you at risk for painful periods are out of your
control. You are more likely to have severe menstrual cramps if they run in
your family history and/or you had an early puberty (eleven years
old or younger). Anatomically (physical make-up of the body) speaking, a
backwards tilting of the uterus (a retroverted uterus) and/or a very
narrow cervical canal can also play a role.
Some things you do have some control over, at least partially. A sedentary
lifestyle contributes to the severity of your cramping; women who exercise
on a regular basis are much less likely to complain of painful periods. In some
(not all) medical circles it is accepted that emotional stress can
increase the discomfort of dysmenorrhea.