Word parts
What it means
Cramping pain in the lower abdomen, often with back pain, nausea or headache, just before or during a period. Primary dysmenorrhea has no disease behind it and is caused by prostaglandins that make the uterus contract. Secondary dysmenorrhea comes from a problem such as endometriosis or fibroids.
For the nurse
Teach heat, exercise and NSAIDs started at the first sign of the period, as allowed. Pain that stops daily activities or is getting worse should be checked by a provider.
At a glance
| Spanish | dismenorrea |
|---|
Related terms
dys-
A word beginning that means difficult, painful or not working normally.
menarche
A person's first menstrual period.
menorrhagia
Menstrual periods that are very heavy or last longer than usual.
endometrium
The inner lining of the uterus, which thickens each month and is shed as the menstrual period if no pregnancy begins.