Menstrual Pain
Primary dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual pain, affects young women in their teens and early twenties. Pain usually begins a day or two before menstrual flow, and may continue through the first two days of menstruation. Discomfort tends to decrease over time and after pregnancy. Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by underlying physical problems.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms and degree of pain vary, but may include the following.
- Abdominal cramping or dull ache that moves to lower back and legs
- Heavy menstrual flow
- Headache
- Nausea
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Frequent urination
- Vomiting (not common)
Causes
Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by the following.
- Strong uterine contractions stimulated by increased production of the hormone prostaglandin by the lining of the uterus (endometrium)
- Anxiety and stress
- Blood and tissue being discharged through a narrow cervix
- Displaced uterus
- Lack of exercise
Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by the following.
- Endometriosis (inflammation of the lining of the uterus)
- Blood and tissue being discharged through a narrow cervix
- Uterine fibroid or ovarian cyst
- Infections of the uterus
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
Integrative Medicine Treatment Options
We combine the best of conventional medicine with the best of complementary and alternative therapies to give you optimal results.
Here are some options we use at the Alliance Institute for Integrative Medicine LOCATED IN Cincinnati, Ohio
- Acupuncture
- Herbal Therapies, Supplements & Medication
- Mind/Body Relaxation Techniques
- Energy Healing
- Medical Massage Therapy
- Lifestyle Counseling
- Chiropractic
