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Menstrual Cramps

Overview

You may have painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) from time to time. Menstrual cramps can occur during or just before your period. The pain from these cramps can range from mild to severe. It can involve the lower belly, back, or thighs. You may also have headaches, nausea, dizziness, fainting, diarrhea, or constipation with your cramps.

During the menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterusuterus produces a hormone called prostaglandinprostaglandin. This hormone causes the uterus to contract, often with pain. If you have severe cramps, you may be producing higher-than-normal amounts of prostaglandin. Or you may be more sensitive to its effects.

Primary dysmenorrheadysmenorrhea is a term used to describe painful menstrual cramping that isn't caused by a medical problem. It often starts during the teen years, when periods first start. But the pain often improves as you get older.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is a term used to describe painful menstrual cramping that's caused by a physical problem other than menstruation. Problems that can cause this type of cramping include:

  • A condition in which cells that look and act like the cells of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) are found in other parts of the belly cavity (endometriosisendometriosis) or grow into the muscular tissue of the uterine wall (adenomyosis). Pain usually occurs 1 to 2 days before menstrual bleeding starts. It continues through the period.
  • Growths in the pelvis that aren't cancer (benign growths). This includes ovarian cystsovarian cysts, cervical or uterine polypspolyps, and fibroidsfibroids.
  • Pelvic infectionsPelvic infections. They can cause worse pain and cramping in your belly during your period.
  • Using an intrauterine device (IUD)intrauterine device (IUD). An IUD may cause worse cramping during your period for the first few months you use it. If menstrual cramps persist or get worse, talk to your doctor.
  • Structural problems that were present at birth (congenital). This includes narrowing of the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina (cervix).

Menstrual-type cramps may occur after a medical procedure. Examples are cautery, cryotherapy, conization, radiation, endometrial biopsy, and IUD insertion.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC StaffIgnite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of UseTerms of Use. Learn how we develop our contenthow we develop our content.

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