The Basics
What Are Period Cramps?
Period cramps are primarily lower abdominal pains that show up just before and/or during menstruation. The pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, throbbing spasms that radiate through your back, thighs, and pelvic area.
There are two types of dysmenorrhea:
1. Primary Dysmenorrhea
This is the most common type – it isn’t caused by any underlying condition and usually begins a year or two after your periods start. The cramps tend to kick in right before or at the start of your period and can last anywhere from 8 to 72 hours.
The pain can be felt in your lower abdomen, back, or even thighs, and it usually becomes less intense as you age.
2. Secondary Dysmenorrhea
This kind of cramping is caused by an underlying medical condition like endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. The pain usually starts earlier in the menstrual cycle and lasts longer than primary dysmenorrhea. It often gets worse over time if not treated.
How To Navigate?
We have divided the basics section into 4 sub-sections, which cover the basic concepts about dysmenorrhea to understand it better. It includes:
The Science: This section covers the science behind dysmenorrhea, the types, and what causes dysmenorrhea.
Common Symptoms: This section covers the symptoms associated with dysmenorrhea.
Normal Not Normal: What kind of pain is normal and what is not normal and needs attention is covered in this section.
Risk Factors: There are many conditions which might put you at the risk of having painful periods, and to understand them better, this section is all you need.
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