Primary dysmenorrhea is the cramping pain that comes before or during a period. This pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. Prostaglandins cause the muscles and blood vessels of the uterus to contract. On the first day of a period, the level of prostaglandins is high. As bleeding continues and the lining of the uterus is shed, the level goes down. This is why pain tends to lessen after the first few days of a period.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by a disorder in the reproductive organs. The pain tends to get worse over time and it often lasts longer than normal menstrual cramps. For example, the pain may begin a few days before a period starts. The pain may get worse as the period continues and may not go away after it ends.
The main symptom of dysmenorrhea is cramping pain that typically starts a few hours before the period and lasts for up to 2 days.
Pain can be severe in some cases, and can range from mild to moderate. It usually gets worse as the period approaches, but it may also vary from cycle to cycle.
There are a good amount of myths about dysmenorrhea executing girls and women social and cultural life. Some of the myths how potentially harmful implications.
Myth 1: The pain of the period is just like anything you have experienced.
Fact: Pain during menses is real. Sometimes it is mild or severe as it may be associated with severe sharp pain headache nausea vomiting dizziness. Some of them are — off finally work. It is a common reason for paediatrics absent ism in school-going girls.
Myth 2: Menstrual cramps are warning signs of infertility.
Myth 3: There are some dietary restrictions during menstruation such as sour food, tamarind pickle, curd, etc. It is believed that these foods will stop menstruation.
Fact: These foods may cause dysmenorrhea, causing epigastric discomfort. Hence, can be avoided. They need to do some dietary modifications like taking more fluids and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid soft drinks, alcohol and more salt or sugar intake. Cessation of smoking or alcohol may reduce symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
Myth 4: Many people believable that exercise or physical activity will aggravate pain.
Fact: Exercise or physical activity causes the release of serotonin, which makes you feel much happier. Exercise may also help in reducing dysmenorrhoea and reducing bloating sensation.
Myth 5: Sports should not be practiced during menses.
Fact: Well-planned physical exercises will help in the reduction of symptoms
Myth 6: Dysmenorrhoea is usually associated with PMS.
Fact: The cause of these symptoms is unknown. Yes, hormonal changes play an important role. Regular exercise, healthy dietary habits, adequate sleep, stress management, psychotherapy and emotional support may reduce symptoms.
Myth 7: Dysmenorrhea is a personal issue.
Fact: Many people in developed countries like India still do not have access to proper hygienic resources. They also do not have any support that they require during periods. It is a social issue. Many girls or women miss school or skip work which can drastically affect their education and career
Myth 8: People believe that medications are not to be taken for pain. If taken, it will hamper fertility and they will have difficult delivery in the future.
Fact: It is always better to receive treatment for severe dysmenorrhea so that they will have normal day-to-day activity
Myth 9: Some believe that they are not supposed to take a head bath during periods.
Fact: Hot water head baths will reduce the pain and help them to feel fresh.
Dr. Manjula H M | Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology | Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, HSR Layout