Causes and Symptoms of Dysmenorrhea
The cause of dysmenorrhea depends on whether the condition is primary or secondary. In general, women with primary dysmenorrhea experience abnormal uterine contractions as a result of a chemical imbalance in the body (particularly prostaglandin and arachidonic acid - both chemicals which control the contractions of the uterus). Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by other medical conditions. The most frequent is endometriosis (a condition in which tissue similar to endometrial implants outside the uterus, usually on other reproductive organs inside the pelvis or abdominal cavity, often resulting in internal bleeding, infection and pelvic pain). Other possible causes of secondary dysmenorrhea include:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- uterine fibroids
- an abnormal pregnancy (eg, spontaneous abortions, ectopic)
- infections, tumors or polyps in the pelvic cavity
The following are the most common symptoms of dysmenorrhea. However, each adolescent may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- cramping in the lower abdomen
- pain in lower abdomen
- back pain
- pain radiating down the legs
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- Weakness
- fainting
- headaches
The symptoms of dysmenorrhea may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
