Bolesne miesiączkowanie
Etiologia i przyczyny

Bolesne miesiączkowanie (dysmenorrhea) dzieli się na pierwotne i wtórne, różniące się etiologią i wiekiem występowania. Pierwotne bolesne miesiączkowanie, dotyczące do 50% kobiet po pokwitaniu, jest związane z podwyższonym poziomem prostaglandyn, zwłaszcza PGF2α, które wywołują skurcze mięśni macicy, zwężenie naczyń i niedotlenienie tkanek, co prowadzi do bólu. Objawy nasilają się w pierwszych dwóch dniach menstruacji. Czynniki ryzyka obejmują m.in. wczesny wiek menarche (<12 lat), długie i obfite krwawienia, palenie tytoniu, nieprawidłową masę ciała, depresję oraz wcześniejsze cięcie cesarskie. Leczenie pierwotnego bolesnego miesiączkowania opiera się na stosowaniu niesteroidowych leków przeciwzapalnych (NLPZ), które hamują syntezę prostaglandyn i zmniejszają ciśnienie wewnątrzmaciczne.

Etiologia Bolesnego Miesiączkowania

Bolesne miesiączkowanie (dysmenorrhea) to dolegliwość definiowana jako ból skurczowy lub rwący w dolnej części brzucha, występujący przed lub podczas miesiączki. Dotyczy znacznej części populacji kobiet w wieku rozrodczym, stanowiąc główną przyczynę nieobecności w szkole i pracy wśród kobiet poniżej 30 roku życia. 123

Rodzaje bolesnego miesiączkowania

W zależności od przyczyny, bolesne miesiączkowanie dzieli się na dwa główne typy:

  • Pierwotne bolesne miesiączkowanie (dysmenorrhea primaria) – ból menstruacyjny występujący bez współistniejących patologii narządów miednicy mniejszej, najczęściej pojawiający się w pierwszych latach po menarche i dotyczący do 50% kobiet po okresie pokwitania.456
  • Wtórne bolesne miesiączkowanie (dysmenorrhea secundaria) – ból menstruacyjny powstający w wyniku obecności patologii narządów miednicy mniejszej, najczęściej obserwowany u kobiet w wieku 30-45 lat, które wcześniej miały prawidłowe, niebolesne miesiączki.789

Pierwotne bolesne miesiączkowanie – przyczyny

Pierwotne bolesne miesiączkowanie jest najczęstszym rodzajem bólu menstruacyjnego. Mimo wielu teorii proponowanych od lat 60. XX wieku (w tym psychologicznych, biochemicznych i anatomicznych), najsilniejsze dowody naukowe wskazują na biochemiczną etiologię tej dolegliwości.1011

Rola prostaglandyn

Głównym czynnikiem odpowiedzialnym za pierwotne bolesne miesiączkowanie są prostaglandyny – substancje hormonopodobne produkowane w błonie śluzowej macicy. Prostaglandyny, szczególnie PGF2α, powodują skurcze mięśni macicy oraz zwężenie naczyń krwionośnych, co prowadzi do zmniejszenia dopływu krwi, niedotlenienia tkanek i pojawienia się bólu.12131415

Badania wykazały, że kobiety cierpiące na bolesne miesiączkowanie mają podwyższony poziom prostaglandyn w płynie menstruacyjnym i tkance endometrialnej. Poziom tych substancji jest najwyższy w pierwszych dwóch dniach menstruacji, kiedy objawy bólowe osiągają szczyt. Wyższe stężenie prostaglandyn wiąże się z silniejszymi i bardziej bolesnymi skurczami macicy.161718

Mechanizm działania prostaglandyn polega na tym, że:

  • Stymulują one skurcze mięśni macicy
  • Powodują zwężenie drobnych naczyń krwionośnych w endometrium
  • Prowadzą do chwilowego odcięcia dopływu tlenu do macicy
  • Wywoływują niedokrwienie tkanek
  • Powodują dezintegrację endometrium i krwawienie
  • Uwrażliwiają zakończenia nerwowe na ból192021

Najsilniejszym dowodem na potwierdzenie „teorii prostaglandynowej” jest skuteczność inhibitorów syntezy prostaglandyn (niesteroidowych leków przeciwzapalnych – NLPZ) w leczeniu bolesnego miesiączkowania. Leki te przynoszą ulgę poprzez hamowanie syntezy prostaglandyn i zmniejszenie ciśnienia wewnątrzmacicznego.2223

Czynniki ryzyka pierwotnego bolesnego miesiączkowania

Badania wskazują na istnienie szeregu czynników ryzyka związanych z występowaniem i nasileniem pierwotnego bolesnego miesiączkowania:

  • Wczesny wiek pierwszej miesiączki (poniżej 12 roku życia)242526
  • Długie cykle menstruacyjne2728
  • Obfite i długotrwałe krwawienia miesiączkowe293031
  • Palenie tytoniu323334
  • Nieprawidłowa masa ciała (zarówno niższa, jak i wyższa od normalnej)3536
  • Nieródki3738
  • Dodatni wywiad rodzinny394041
  • Depresja i stany lękowe4243
  • Zaburzenia sieci społecznych44
  • Historia przebytego urazu seksualnego45
  • Wiek poniżej 30 lat4647
  • Próby redukcji masy ciała48
  • Wcześniejsze cięcie cesarskie z niepełnym zagojeniem blizny macicy49
  • Niektóre badania wskazują również na związek z nadmiernym spożyciem alkoholu5051

Wtórne bolesne miesiączkowanie – przyczyny

Wtórne bolesne miesiączkowanie występuje, gdy ból menstruacyjny jest spowodowany określonym schorzeniem lub patologią w obrębie narządów rozrodczych. W przeciwieństwie do pierwotnego bolesnego miesiączkowania, ból jest często bardziej intensywny, pojawia się w późniejszym wieku i może trwać dłużej niż typowe skurcze menstruacyjne.525354

Endometrioza

Endometrioza jest najczęstszą przyczyną wtórnego bolesnego miesiączkowania u kobiet w wieku przedmenopauzalnym. W schorzeniu tym tkanka podobna do błony śluzowej macicy (endometrium) rośnie poza jamą macicy, najczęściej na jajnikach, jajowodach lub tkance wyściełającej miednicę. Podczas menstruacji ta ektopowa tkanka endometrialna reaguje na hormony podobnie jak normalne endometrium – powiększa się, a następnie ulega złuszczeniu i krwawieniu, powodując stan zapalny, podrażnienie i silny ból.555657

Dokładna przyczyna endometriozy nie jest w pełni poznana, ale istnieje kilka teorii wyjaśniających jej rozwój:

  • Wsteczna menstruacja – krew menstruacyjna zawierająca komórki endometrium wypływa wstecznie przez jajowody do jamy otrzewnowej, gdzie komórki mogą się osadzać i rosnąć58
  • Metaplazja komórkowa – komórki poza macicą przekształcają się w komórki podobne do endometrium59
  • Hipoteza komórek macierzystych – choroba może rozwijać się z komórek macierzystych, które rozprzestrzeniają się przez naczynia krwionośne i limfatyczne60
  • Zaburzenia hormonalneendometrioza jest zależna od estrogenu, który zwiększa stan zapalny, wzrost tkanki i ból61

U kobiet z endometriozą poziom prostaglandyn we krwi menstruacyjnej jest jeszcze wyższy niż u kobiet bez tej choroby, co może wyjaśniać, dlaczego doświadczają one szczególnie silnego bólu podczas miesiączki. Badania wykazały również, że częstotliwość, wielkość i podstawowe napięcie skurczów macicy są wyższe u kobiet z endometriozą w porównaniu do kobiet bez tej choroby.62

Adenomioza

Adenomioza to stan, w którym tkanka błony śluzowej macicy (endometrium) wrasta w mięśniową ścianę macicy (myometrium). W wyniku tego procesu macica może powiększyć się dwu- lub trzykrotnie w stosunku do normalnych rozmiarów i stać się bolesna, co prowadzi do obfitych krwawień i silnych skurczów menstruacyjnych. Często nazywana jest „endometriozą macicy”.636465

Mięśniaki macicy

Mięśniaki macicy (fibromyomata, leiomyomata, fibroidy) to nienowotworowe guzy rozwijające się w ścianie macicy, na zewnątrz lub wewnątrz jej jamy. Mogą powodować ucisk na macicę, nieprawidłowe i obfite krwawienia oraz znaczny ból podczas miesiączki. Badania wskazują, że są one najczęściej diagnozowanymi guzami miednicy u kobiet, występującymi u około połowy kobiet, ale tylko około 25% z nich doświadcza objawów.666768

Zapalenie narządów miednicy mniejszej

Zapalenie narządów miednicy mniejszej (PID – Pelvic Inflammatory Disease) to infekcja żeńskich narządów rozrodczych – najczęściej macicy, jajowodów i jajników. Zwykle jest spowodowana przez bakterie przenoszone drogą płciową, takie jak chlamydia lub rzeżączka, które wnikają przez szyjkę macicy i rozprzestrzeniają się w górę. Prowadzi to do stanu zapalnego, bólu i ewentualnie do tworzenia się tkanki bliznowatej, która może powodować przewlekły ból miednicy i niepłodność.697071

Zwężenie szyjki macicy

Zwężenie szyjki macicy (stenoza szyjki macicy) to rzadki stan, w którym szyjka macicy jest zbyt wąska lub całkowicie zamknięta, co utrudnia przepływ krwi menstruacyjnej. Prowadzi to do gromadzenia się krwi w macicy, wzrostu ciśnienia wewnątrzmacicznego i silnego bólu. Może być wrodzone lub nabyte w wyniku urazu, zabiegu chirurgicznego czy niedoboru estrogenu po menopauzie.727374

Wkładka wewnątrzmaciczna

Wkładka wewnątrzmaciczna (IUD), zwłaszcza miedziana, może powodować silniejsze skurcze menstruacyjne, szczególnie w pierwszych 3-6 miesiącach po jej założeniu. Urządzenie może zwiększać produkcję prostaglandyn lub wywoływać reakcję zapalną w macicy, co prowadzi do nasilenia bólu podczas miesiączki.757677

Inne przyczyny wtórnego bolesnego miesiączkowania

Do rzadszych przyczyn wtórnego bolesnego miesiączkowania należą:

  • Zespół policystycznych jajników (PCOS) – zaburzenie hormonalne powodujące powiększenie jajników z małymi torbielami na obwodzie, mogące prowadzić do nieregularnych cykli menstruacyjnych z towarzyszącymi silnymi skurczami7879
  • Torbiele jajnika – wypełnione płynem worki rozwijające się na jajnikach lub w ich wnętrzu8081
  • Polipy endometrialne – rozrosty tkanki endometrialnej przyczepiające się do wewnętrznej ściany macicy82
  • Wrodzone wady narządów rozrodczych – nieprawidłowości w budowie macicy powstałe w okresie płodowym8384
  • Choroby zapalne jelit (IBD) – takie jak choroba Leśniowskiego-Crohna lub wrzodziejące zapalenie jelita grubego, które mogą nasilać się podczas miesiączki8586
  • Zaburzenia układu moczowego – mogą zaostrzać się podczas miesiączki i przyczyniać do bólu8788
  • Zespół przekrwienia miednicy – spowodowany niewydolnością zastawek w żyłach miednicy otaczających jajniki89
  • Śródmiąższowe zapalenie pęcherza moczowego – może powodować skurcze podobne do menstruacyjnych90

Patofizjologia bólu menstruacyjnego

Ból menstruacyjny powstaje w wyniku złożonych mechanizmów fizjologicznych. Główne procesy prowadzące do powstawania bólu to:

Skurcze macicy

Podczas miesiączki macica kurczy się, aby pomóc w wydaleniu swojej błony śluzowej. Skurcze te są wywołane przez prostaglandyny, których poziom wzrasta przed i podczas menstruacji. U kobiet z bolesnym miesiączkowaniem skurcze te mogą być wyjątkowo silne i bolesne.9192

Niedotlenienie tkanek

Jeśli macica kurczy się zbyt silnie, może uciskać pobliskie naczynia krwionośne, czasowo ograniczając dopływ krwi i tlenu do tkanek. Ten chwilowy brak tlenu (niedokrwienie, ischemia) powoduje ból i dyskomfort.939495

Uwrażliwienie nerwów

Prostaglandyny i inne mediatory zapalne uwrażliwiają zakończenia nerwowe na ból. W przypadku endometriozy dochodzi do aktywacji nerwu w plecach zwanego zwojami korzeni grzbietowych (dorsal root ganglion), co może prowadzić do sensytyzacji układu nerwowego i zwiększonej wrażliwości na ból.9697

Zmiany w ośrodkowym układzie nerwowym

Przewlekły ból związany z wtórnym bolesnym miesiączkowaniem może prowadzić do zmian w ośrodkowym układzie nerwowym, zwiększających wrażliwość na ból i powodujących takie objawy jak zmęczenie, bóle głowy czy nudności.9899

Skurcze mięśni dna miednicy

W przypadku bolesnego miesiączkowania może dochodzić do skurczów nie tylko macicy, ale również mięśni dna miednicy, odbytu i innych struktur w obrębie miednicy, co potęguje odczuwanie bólu.100101

Podsumowanie etiologii bolesnego miesiączkowania

Bolesne miesiączkowanie to złożone schorzenie o wieloczynnikowej etiologii. W przypadku pierwotnego bolesnego miesiączkowania główną rolę odgrywają prostaglandyny, powodujące nadmierne skurcze macicy, ograniczenie przepływu krwi i niedotlenienie tkanek. Wtórne bolesne miesiączkowanie wynika z obecności patologii w obrębie narządów miednicy mniejszej, takich jak endometrioza, adenomioza, mięśniaki macicy czy zapalenie narządów miednicy mniejszej.

Zrozumienie etiologii bolesnego miesiączkowania jest kluczowe dla właściwego postępowania terapeutycznego. W przypadku pierwotnego bolesnego miesiączkowania leczenie skupia się na hamowaniu syntezy prostaglandyn za pomocą NLPZ. Natomiast w przypadku wtórnego bolesnego miesiączkowania niezbędne jest leczenie choroby podstawowej, gdyż sama farmakoterapia przeciwbólowa może nie przynieść zadowalających efektów.102103104

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  1. 10.04.2026
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Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen. […] Conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids can cause menstrual cramps. Treating the cause is key to reducing the pain. […] During your menstrual period, your uterus contracts to help expel its lining. Hormonelike substances (prostaglandins) involved in pain and inflammation trigger the uterine muscle contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more-severe menstrual cramps. […] Menstrual cramps can be caused by: Endometriosis. Tissue that acts similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, most commonly on fallopian tubes, ovaries or the tissue lining your pelvis. […] Uterine fibroids. These noncancerous growths in the wall of the uterus can cause pain.
  • #2 Menstrual Cramps Causes and Treatments
    https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-pain
    Menstrual cramps are the leading cause of absenteeism in women younger than 30. […] Prostaglandins are chemicals the body makes that cause many of the symptoms associated with menstrual discomfort. The tissue that lines the uterus makes these chemicals. Prostaglandins stimulate the uterine muscles to contract. People who have high levels of prostaglandin may have more intense contractions of their uterus and more pain. Prostaglandins may also be responsible for vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches that accompany painful periods. […] If you have had menstrual pain ever since your periods started, the condition is called primary dysmenorrhea. If a physical condition such as pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis has developed and is causing the pain, this is called secondary dysmenorrhea. Once the medical condition is treated, the menstrual pain usually goes away.
  • #3 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as difficult menstrual flow or painful menstruation. It is one of the most common gynecologic complaints in young women who present to clinicians. Optimal management of this symptom depends on an understanding of the underlying cause. Dysmenorrhea can be divided into two broad categories: primary and secondary. […] Primary dysmenorrhea is defined as menstrual pain that is not associated with macroscopic pelvic pathology (ie, occurs in the absence of pelvic disease). It typically occurs in the first few years after menarche and affects as many as 50% of postpubertal females. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is defined as menstrual pain resulting from anatomic or macroscopic pelvic pathology, as is seen in women with endometriosis or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. It is most often observed in women aged 30-45 years.
  • #4 Period Pain | Menstrual Cramps | MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/periodpain.html
    Menstruation, or period, is normal vaginal bleeding that happens as part of a woman’s monthly cycle. Many women have painful periods, also called dysmenorrhea. The pain is most often menstrual cramps, which are a throbbing, cramping pain in your lower abdomen. […] There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Each type has different causes. […] Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common kind of period pain. It is period pain that is not caused by another condition. The cause is usually having too many prostaglandins, which are chemicals that your uterus makes. These chemicals make the muscles of your uterus tighten and relax, and this causes the cramps. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea often starts later in life. It is caused by conditions that affect your uterus or other reproductive organs, such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids. This kind of pain often gets worse over time. It may begin before your period starts and continue after your period ends.
  • #5 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as difficult menstrual flow or painful menstruation. It is one of the most common gynecologic complaints in young women who present to clinicians. Optimal management of this symptom depends on an understanding of the underlying cause. Dysmenorrhea can be divided into two broad categories: primary and secondary. […] Primary dysmenorrhea is defined as menstrual pain that is not associated with macroscopic pelvic pathology (ie, occurs in the absence of pelvic disease). It typically occurs in the first few years after menarche and affects as many as 50% of postpubertal females. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is defined as menstrual pain resulting from anatomic or macroscopic pelvic pathology, as is seen in women with endometriosis or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. It is most often observed in women aged 30-45 years.
  • #6 Painful menstrual periods – UF Health
    https://ufhealth.org/conditions-and-treatments/painful-menstrual-periods
    Painful menstrual periods fall into two groups, depending on the cause: […] Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain that occurs around the time that menstrual periods first begin in otherwise healthy young women. In most cases, this pain is not related to a specific problem with the uterus or other pelvic organs. Increased activity of the hormone prostaglandin, which is produced in the uterus, is thought to play a role in this condition. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain that develops later in women who have had normal periods. It is often related to problems in the uterus or other pelvic organs, such as: Endometriosis, Fibroids, Intrauterine device (IUD) made of copper, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Sexually transmitted infection, Stress and anxiety.
  • #7 Painful Menstrual Periods: Causes, Treatments & More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/painful-menstrual-periods
    Painful menstruation is called dysmenorrhea. There are two types: primary and secondary. Certain medical conditions, including endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease, can cause it. […] Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in people who experience pain before and during menstruation. If you’ve had normal periods that become painful later in life, it may be secondary dysmenorrhea. A condition affecting the uterus or other pelvic organs, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, can cause this. […] Painful menstrual periods can also be the result of an underlying medical condition, such as: […] Endometriosis. This is a painful medical condition in which cells from the lining of the uterus grow in other parts of the body, usually on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or tissue lining the pelvis.
  • #8 Dysmenorrhea: Menstrual Cramps, Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4148-dysmenorrhea
    Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual periods. It happens because your uterus contracts to shed its lining. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to recurrent pain with no identifiable cause. Secondary dysmenorrhea results from conditions like endometriosis. […] Menstrual cramps happen when a chemical called prostaglandin makes your uterus contract (tighten up). During menstruation, prostaglandin levels are higher, which means your uterus contracts more strongly. […] Experts aren’t entirely sure why some people have more painful periods, but they think it may be because they have higher levels of prostaglandins. […] Menstrual pain from secondary dysmenorrhea is a result of a condition affecting your reproductive organs. Conditions that can cause cramping include: Endometriosis: A condition where the tissue lining your uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of your uterus.
  • #9 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as difficult menstrual flow or painful menstruation. It is one of the most common gynecologic complaints in young women who present to clinicians. Optimal management of this symptom depends on an understanding of the underlying cause. Dysmenorrhea can be divided into two broad categories: primary and secondary. […] Primary dysmenorrhea is defined as menstrual pain that is not associated with macroscopic pelvic pathology (ie, occurs in the absence of pelvic disease). It typically occurs in the first few years after menarche and affects as many as 50% of postpubertal females. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is defined as menstrual pain resulting from anatomic or macroscopic pelvic pathology, as is seen in women with endometriosis or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. It is most often observed in women aged 30-45 years.
  • #10 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #11 Menstrual pain: its origin and pathogenesis – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7001019/
    A variety of misconceptions about the etiology of dysmenorrhea have existed in the past. […] Experimental and clinical research of the last 15 years, however, has identified uterine prostaglandins as substantially contributing to the pathogenesis of primary dysmenorrhea. […] It is now known that at the end of the menstrual cycle, prostaglandins increase myometrial contractions and cause constriction of small endometrial blood vessels, with consequent tissue ischemia, endometrial disintegration, bleeding and pain. […] Dysmenorrhea may be due to tissue ischemia resulting from increased intrauterine pressure, vessel constriction and decreased uterine blood flow. […] The most compelling evidence for the „prostaglandin theory” is the success of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. […] The pain relief achieved with these drugs is accompanied by a suppression of prostaglandin synthesis and a decrease in intrauterine pressure.
  • #12 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen. […] Conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids can cause menstrual cramps. Treating the cause is key to reducing the pain. […] During your menstrual period, your uterus contracts to help expel its lining. Hormonelike substances (prostaglandins) involved in pain and inflammation trigger the uterine muscle contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more-severe menstrual cramps. […] Menstrual cramps can be caused by: Endometriosis. Tissue that acts similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, most commonly on fallopian tubes, ovaries or the tissue lining your pelvis. […] Uterine fibroids. These noncancerous growths in the wall of the uterus can cause pain.
  • #13 Dysmenorrhea: Menstrual Cramps, Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4148-dysmenorrhea
    Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual periods. It happens because your uterus contracts to shed its lining. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to recurrent pain with no identifiable cause. Secondary dysmenorrhea results from conditions like endometriosis. […] Menstrual cramps happen when a chemical called prostaglandin makes your uterus contract (tighten up). During menstruation, prostaglandin levels are higher, which means your uterus contracts more strongly. […] Experts aren’t entirely sure why some people have more painful periods, but they think it may be because they have higher levels of prostaglandins. […] Menstrual pain from secondary dysmenorrhea is a result of a condition affecting your reproductive organs. Conditions that can cause cramping include: Endometriosis: A condition where the tissue lining your uterus (the endometrium) grows outside of your uterus.
  • #14 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Prostaglandins (PGs) are thought to be the main cause of dysmenorrhea. Higher levels of PGs have been noted in the menstrual fluid and endometrial tissue of women with dysmenorrhea. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain due to an underlying disease, disorder, or structural abnormality within or outside the uterus. […] There are many common causes of secondary dysmenorrhea, including endometriosis, large cesarean scar niche, fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, interstitial cystitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and possibly the use of an intrauterine contraceptive system. […] Endometriosis and adenomyosis are the most common causes of secondary dysmenorrhea in premenopausal women.
  • #15 Menstrual pain: its origin and pathogenesis – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7001019/
    A variety of misconceptions about the etiology of dysmenorrhea have existed in the past. […] Experimental and clinical research of the last 15 years, however, has identified uterine prostaglandins as substantially contributing to the pathogenesis of primary dysmenorrhea. […] It is now known that at the end of the menstrual cycle, prostaglandins increase myometrial contractions and cause constriction of small endometrial blood vessels, with consequent tissue ischemia, endometrial disintegration, bleeding and pain. […] Dysmenorrhea may be due to tissue ischemia resulting from increased intrauterine pressure, vessel constriction and decreased uterine blood flow. […] The most compelling evidence for the „prostaglandin theory” is the success of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. […] The pain relief achieved with these drugs is accompanied by a suppression of prostaglandin synthesis and a decrease in intrauterine pressure.
  • #16 Why Are My Period Cramps So Bad? 7 Causes for Severe Period Cramps and How to Find Relief
    https://www.unitypoint.org/news-and-articles/7-causes-for-severe-period-cramps
    Menstrual cramps that are severe are caused by high levels of prostaglandins, which trigger uterine contractions and create inflammation that leads to really bad period cramps. […] You could have an underlying condition that causes severe period cramps. These can include, but aren’t limited to, endometriosis, fibroids, polyps, infections, pelvic inflammatory disease or ovarian cysts.
  • #17 Period Pain: Types, Causes, and Treatments
    https://www.health.com/condition/menstruation/period-pain
    Most menstruating people experience some level of pain during that time of the month. Normally, you can blame that discomfort on what’s going on with your uterus. […] The clinical term for period pain is dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea comes in two types: Primary and secondary. […] Primary dysmenorrhea, the cramping pain that comes before and during a period, is caused by changes in your body’s natural chemicals. Those chemicals, called prostaglandins, are made in the uterus lining. Prostaglandins cause the uterine muscles to contract, which helps the uterine lining shed through the vagina during menstrual bleeding. […] But in cases of primary dysmenorrhea, the body may produce more prostaglandins than normal. More prostaglandins cause more contractions and painful cramps. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain caused by an underlying health condition, such as uterine fibroids, tumors, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, adenomyosis, or uterine polyps. […] In the case of secondary dysmenorrhea, the pain typically gets worse over time. Additionally, the pain may last longer than regular period cramps.
  • #18 Primary Dysmenorrhea | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/1999/0801/p489.html/1000
    Primary dysmenorrhea is defined as cramping pain in the lower abdomen occurring just before or during menstruation, in the absence of other diseases such as endometriosis. […] The etiology of primary dysmenorrhea is not precisely understood, but most symptoms can be explained by the action of uterine prostaglandins, particularly PGF2. During endometrial sloughing, the disintegrating endometrial cells release PGF2 as menstruation begins. PGF2 stimulates myometrial contractions, ischemia and sensitization of nerve endings. […] Women who have more severe dysmenorrhea have higher levels of PGF2 in their menstrual fluid. These levels are highest during the first two days of menses, when symptoms peak. […] Some studies have also implicated increased levels of leukotrienes and vasopressin, but these connections are not yet well established.
  • #19 Menstrual pain: its origin and pathogenesis – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7001019/
    A variety of misconceptions about the etiology of dysmenorrhea have existed in the past. […] Experimental and clinical research of the last 15 years, however, has identified uterine prostaglandins as substantially contributing to the pathogenesis of primary dysmenorrhea. […] It is now known that at the end of the menstrual cycle, prostaglandins increase myometrial contractions and cause constriction of small endometrial blood vessels, with consequent tissue ischemia, endometrial disintegration, bleeding and pain. […] Dysmenorrhea may be due to tissue ischemia resulting from increased intrauterine pressure, vessel constriction and decreased uterine blood flow. […] The most compelling evidence for the „prostaglandin theory” is the success of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. […] The pain relief achieved with these drugs is accompanied by a suppression of prostaglandin synthesis and a decrease in intrauterine pressure.
  • #20 Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention
    https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-cramps
    Menstrual cramps happen because of contractions in the uterus, or womb, which is a muscle. If it contracts too strongly during your menstrual cycle, it can press against nearby blood vessels. This briefly cuts off oxygen to the uterus. Its this lack of oxygen that causes your pain and cramping. […] You can also have cramps because of: […] Endometriosis, condition in which tissue that looks like the same tissue as what is lining the uterus (the endometrium) grows in places outside of the uterus […] Fibroids in your uterus […] Adenomyosis, where tissue that is similar to the tissue of your uterine lining is found within the uterine muscle […] Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection caused by bacteria that starts in the uterus and can spread to other reproductive organs […] Cervical stenosis, or a narrowing of the lower part of your uterus, caused by scarring, as well as a lack of estrogen after menopause. […] Certain things put you at a higher risk of menstrual cramps. You’re more likely to have them if you: […] Have a family history of menstrual cramps.
  • #21 What Are “Menstrual Cramps”, and What Causes Them?
    https://www.advil.ca/resources/menstrual-pain/what-are-menstrual-cramps-and-what-causes-them/
    Menstrual cramps are lower abdominal pain that starts during menstrual bleeding and slowly gets better over the next 12-72 hours. Pain from menstrual cramps is primarily caused by an increase in certain types of pain producing chemicals, and can be relieved with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines like Advil Liqui-Gels. […] During your regular menstrual cycle, the levels of many natural chemicals in your body, like prostaglandins, increase. Prostaglandins are the ones that cause the pain, and they can rise to as high as 6 times their normal level! […] Higher levels of these chemicals at that moment mean those effects can be stronger. […] Increased levels of prostaglandins cause those normal nerves to become more sensitive. […] Generally during your period, the uterus is more active to prepare for childbirth. That natural activity and movement can add to the pain you experience.
  • #22 Menstrual pain: its origin and pathogenesis – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7001019/
    A variety of misconceptions about the etiology of dysmenorrhea have existed in the past. […] Experimental and clinical research of the last 15 years, however, has identified uterine prostaglandins as substantially contributing to the pathogenesis of primary dysmenorrhea. […] It is now known that at the end of the menstrual cycle, prostaglandins increase myometrial contractions and cause constriction of small endometrial blood vessels, with consequent tissue ischemia, endometrial disintegration, bleeding and pain. […] Dysmenorrhea may be due to tissue ischemia resulting from increased intrauterine pressure, vessel constriction and decreased uterine blood flow. […] The most compelling evidence for the „prostaglandin theory” is the success of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. […] The pain relief achieved with these drugs is accompanied by a suppression of prostaglandin synthesis and a decrease in intrauterine pressure.
  • #23 Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
    https://studenthealth.ucsd.edu/resources/health-topics/painful-periods/index.html
    Dysmenorrhea is the most common cause of lost work and school hours among women in the United States. […] In some cases, the cause of dysmenorrhea is an actual disease or some physical abnormality. […] The causes of dysmenorrhea in a normal, healthy woman are not so clear. […] However, the most up-to-date thinking indicates that a group of chemicals in your body called „prostaglandins” may be the most direct influence. […] Scientists believe that when there is an excess of a certain prostaglandin, uterine contractions are greater, and this causes the severe pain and discomfort of dysmenorrhea. […] Since an excess of prostaglandins in the lining of the uterus seems to be one of the major causes of dysmenorrhea, any medication that reduces the amount of prostaglandins will be helpful in relieving the pain.
  • #24 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #25 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    The following risk factors are associated with more severe episodes of dysmenorrhea: Earlier age at menarche, Long menstrual periods, Heavy menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history. […] Some (not all) studies have found obesity and alcohol consumption to be associated with dysmenorrhea. […] Although dysmenorrhea is not life-threatening, it can be debilitating and psychologically taxing for many women. […] Risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea include the following: Early age at menarche ( 12 years), Nulliparity, Heavy or prolonged menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history, Obesity. […] Risk factors for secondary dysmenorrhea include the following: Leiomyomata (fibroids), PID, Tubo-ovarian abscess, Ovarian torsion, Endometriosis. […] Almost any process that can affect the pelvic viscera can produce cyclic pelvic pain.
  • #26 What Causes Period Cramps? Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments
    https://www.naturalcycles.com/cyclematters/what-causes-period-cramps
    These are some things that are related to a higher risk of painful period cramps: having heavier periods and periods that last longer than seven days, having irregular periods, being under the age of 30, going through puberty at age 11 or younger, having a family history of painful period cramps, being a smoker. […] Primary dysmenorrhea refers to “regular” period cramps — the kind we usually mean when talking about period pains — and it’s caused by the period itself and not by any other underlying condition. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is when period cramps or pains are caused by an underlying medical condition. […] There are a few different conditions that can cause painful periods: endometriosis, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), cervical stenosis. […] If you have secondary dysmenorrhea, the pain often lasts longer than regular period cramps.
  • #27 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #28 Cramps But No Period: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
    https://www.medicinenet.com/why_am_i_having_menstrual_cramps_but_no_period/article.htm
    Menstrual cramps but no period may be due to smoking, anxiety, depression, and menstrual irregularities. […] Menstrual cramps can occur without a period due to various causes. […] Various risk factors may increase your odds of having strong pelvic or menstrual cramps that aren’t directly related to your period, such as: Smoking, Having longer menstrual cycles, A history of irregular menstrual flows, Having ovarian cysts, Anxiety or depression. […] There are many reasons why you might have period cramps but no period or pregnancy, and they may range from normal and natural to serious medical conditions. […] Here are just a few of the reasons you might have period-like cramps but no period: Ovulation, Anovulation, Ovarian cysts, Endometriosis, Interstitial cystitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). […] Given the wide variety of possible causes, it’s a good idea to have your symptoms checked out by a health professional if you’re experiencing unusual menstrual cramps.
  • #29 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #30 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    The following risk factors are associated with more severe episodes of dysmenorrhea: Earlier age at menarche, Long menstrual periods, Heavy menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history. […] Some (not all) studies have found obesity and alcohol consumption to be associated with dysmenorrhea. […] Although dysmenorrhea is not life-threatening, it can be debilitating and psychologically taxing for many women. […] Risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea include the following: Early age at menarche ( 12 years), Nulliparity, Heavy or prolonged menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history, Obesity. […] Risk factors for secondary dysmenorrhea include the following: Leiomyomata (fibroids), PID, Tubo-ovarian abscess, Ovarian torsion, Endometriosis. […] Almost any process that can affect the pelvic viscera can produce cyclic pelvic pain.
  • #31 What Causes Period Cramps? Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments
    https://www.naturalcycles.com/cyclematters/what-causes-period-cramps
    These are some things that are related to a higher risk of painful period cramps: having heavier periods and periods that last longer than seven days, having irregular periods, being under the age of 30, going through puberty at age 11 or younger, having a family history of painful period cramps, being a smoker. […] Primary dysmenorrhea refers to “regular” period cramps — the kind we usually mean when talking about period pains — and it’s caused by the period itself and not by any other underlying condition. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is when period cramps or pains are caused by an underlying medical condition. […] There are a few different conditions that can cause painful periods: endometriosis, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), cervical stenosis. […] If you have secondary dysmenorrhea, the pain often lasts longer than regular period cramps.
  • #32 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #33 5 Reasons for Painful Periods and Menstrual Cramps | Vascular Specialist Check-up
    https://www.cvmus.com/blog/5-reasons-painful-periods-and-menstrual-cramps
    Heavy smokers face a higher risk of painful cramps during their menstrual cycles. […] Abnormally painful periods can often be a sign of an underlying condition. A few potential causes for severe cramping include: Endometriosis, Fibroids in your uterus, Cervical stenosis, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Adenomyosis, Polycystic ovary syndrome. […] If you are still experiencing severe period cramps after 25, or if your cramps become more severe during adulthood, that could be a sign of a medical issue. […] In some cases, painful periods and menstrual cramps can be a sign of a serious underlying condition. Severe menstrual cramps can also signify a higher risk of vascular conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
  • #34
    https://www.yourdaye.com/en-us/vitals/womens-health/understanding-the-causes-of-menstrual-pain/?srsltid=AfmBOorgtQlTOvtgM01BH2I8eH6Py0M_APxb60UYChH0JT4TtI8zsHAI
    Studies have shown that diet can have a significant impact on period pain. […] Smoking cigarettes is another of the risk factors for increased period pain. […] While some people might be tempted to reach for a glass of wine to dull the cramps, it can actually cause more pain and increase the symptoms of PMS.
  • #35 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #36 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    The following risk factors are associated with more severe episodes of dysmenorrhea: Earlier age at menarche, Long menstrual periods, Heavy menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history. […] Some (not all) studies have found obesity and alcohol consumption to be associated with dysmenorrhea. […] Although dysmenorrhea is not life-threatening, it can be debilitating and psychologically taxing for many women. […] Risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea include the following: Early age at menarche ( 12 years), Nulliparity, Heavy or prolonged menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history, Obesity. […] Risk factors for secondary dysmenorrhea include the following: Leiomyomata (fibroids), PID, Tubo-ovarian abscess, Ovarian torsion, Endometriosis. […] Almost any process that can affect the pelvic viscera can produce cyclic pelvic pain.
  • #37 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #38 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    The following risk factors are associated with more severe episodes of dysmenorrhea: Earlier age at menarche, Long menstrual periods, Heavy menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history. […] Some (not all) studies have found obesity and alcohol consumption to be associated with dysmenorrhea. […] Although dysmenorrhea is not life-threatening, it can be debilitating and psychologically taxing for many women. […] Risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea include the following: Early age at menarche ( 12 years), Nulliparity, Heavy or prolonged menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history, Obesity. […] Risk factors for secondary dysmenorrhea include the following: Leiomyomata (fibroids), PID, Tubo-ovarian abscess, Ovarian torsion, Endometriosis. […] Almost any process that can affect the pelvic viscera can produce cyclic pelvic pain.
  • #39 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #40 Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention
    https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-cramps
    Menstrual cramps happen because of contractions in the uterus, or womb, which is a muscle. If it contracts too strongly during your menstrual cycle, it can press against nearby blood vessels. This briefly cuts off oxygen to the uterus. Its this lack of oxygen that causes your pain and cramping. […] You can also have cramps because of: […] Endometriosis, condition in which tissue that looks like the same tissue as what is lining the uterus (the endometrium) grows in places outside of the uterus […] Fibroids in your uterus […] Adenomyosis, where tissue that is similar to the tissue of your uterine lining is found within the uterine muscle […] Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection caused by bacteria that starts in the uterus and can spread to other reproductive organs […] Cervical stenosis, or a narrowing of the lower part of your uterus, caused by scarring, as well as a lack of estrogen after menopause. […] Certain things put you at a higher risk of menstrual cramps. You’re more likely to have them if you: […] Have a family history of menstrual cramps.
  • #41 5 Reasons for Painful Periods and Menstrual Cramps | Vascular Specialist Check-up
    https://www.cvmus.com/blog/5-reasons-painful-periods-and-menstrual-cramps
    Painful periods can be worrisome, especially if you don’t know what’s causing them. Fortunately, knowing the cause of your severe menstrual pain may help provide some comfort. […] One common reason for painful period cramps is your genetic makeup. If several people in your family struggle with painful periods, you have a higher risk of experiencing severe cramping as well. […] People who begin menstruating at a young age have a higher risk of painful period cramps. So if you got your first period when you were 11 years old or younger, that could be the cause behind your painful menstrual cramps. […] The first few years of menstruation are usually the most difficult. If you’re a teenager or child who started your period in the last few years, painful cramps are a rather common experience.
  • #42 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #43 Cramps But No Period: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
    https://www.medicinenet.com/why_am_i_having_menstrual_cramps_but_no_period/article.htm
    Menstrual cramps but no period may be due to smoking, anxiety, depression, and menstrual irregularities. […] Menstrual cramps can occur without a period due to various causes. […] Various risk factors may increase your odds of having strong pelvic or menstrual cramps that aren’t directly related to your period, such as: Smoking, Having longer menstrual cycles, A history of irregular menstrual flows, Having ovarian cysts, Anxiety or depression. […] There are many reasons why you might have period cramps but no period or pregnancy, and they may range from normal and natural to serious medical conditions. […] Here are just a few of the reasons you might have period-like cramps but no period: Ovulation, Anovulation, Ovarian cysts, Endometriosis, Interstitial cystitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). […] Given the wide variety of possible causes, it’s a good idea to have your symptoms checked out by a health professional if you’re experiencing unusual menstrual cramps.
  • #44 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #45 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #46 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #47 5 Reasons for Painful Periods and Menstrual Cramps | Vascular Specialist Check-up
    https://www.cvmus.com/blog/5-reasons-painful-periods-and-menstrual-cramps
    Heavy smokers face a higher risk of painful cramps during their menstrual cycles. […] Abnormally painful periods can often be a sign of an underlying condition. A few potential causes for severe cramping include: Endometriosis, Fibroids in your uterus, Cervical stenosis, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Adenomyosis, Polycystic ovary syndrome. […] If you are still experiencing severe period cramps after 25, or if your cramps become more severe during adulthood, that could be a sign of a medical issue. […] In some cases, painful periods and menstrual cramps can be a sign of a serious underlying condition. Severe menstrual cramps can also signify a higher risk of vascular conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
  • #48 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #49 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Dysmenorrhea is defined as pain during the menstrual cycle. […] Dysmenorrhea can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is recurrent lower abdominal pain that happens during the menstrual cycle and is not associated with other diseases or underlying pathology. […] Since the 1960s, many theories have been proposed to explain the etiology of dysmenorrhea. These theories include psychological, biochemical, and anatomical etiologies. The anatomical theory notes abnormal uterine position and abnormalities in the shape or length of the cervix. […] According to multiple other studies, the biochemical theory has the most substantial evidence. […] Associated risk factors for dysmenorrhea include the following: Age (commonly) up to 30 years, Smoking, Attempts to lose weight, Higher or lower than normal body mass index, Depression/anxiety, Longer menstrual cycles, Younger age at menarche, Nulliparity, History of sexual assault, Previous cesarean section with incomplete uterine scar healing (uterine niche), Longer and heavier menstrual flow, Family history of dysmenorrhea, Disruption of social networks.
  • #50 Dysmenorrhea: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/253812-overview
    The following risk factors are associated with more severe episodes of dysmenorrhea: Earlier age at menarche, Long menstrual periods, Heavy menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history. […] Some (not all) studies have found obesity and alcohol consumption to be associated with dysmenorrhea. […] Although dysmenorrhea is not life-threatening, it can be debilitating and psychologically taxing for many women. […] Risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea include the following: Early age at menarche ( 12 years), Nulliparity, Heavy or prolonged menstrual flow, Smoking, Positive family history, Obesity. […] Risk factors for secondary dysmenorrhea include the following: Leiomyomata (fibroids), PID, Tubo-ovarian abscess, Ovarian torsion, Endometriosis. […] Almost any process that can affect the pelvic viscera can produce cyclic pelvic pain.
  • #51
    https://www.yourdaye.com/en-us/vitals/womens-health/understanding-the-causes-of-menstrual-pain/?srsltid=AfmBOorgtQlTOvtgM01BH2I8eH6Py0M_APxb60UYChH0JT4TtI8zsHAI
    Studies have shown that diet can have a significant impact on period pain. […] Smoking cigarettes is another of the risk factors for increased period pain. […] While some people might be tempted to reach for a glass of wine to dull the cramps, it can actually cause more pain and increase the symptoms of PMS.
  • #52 Painful Menstrual Periods: Causes, Treatments & More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/painful-menstrual-periods
    Fibroids in the uterus. Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that can put pressure on the uterus or cause abnormal menstruation and pain, though they often don’t cause symptoms. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria that cause inflammation of the reproductive organs and pain. […] Adenomyosis. This is a rare condition in which the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing inflammation, pressure, and pain. It can also cause longer or heavier periods. […] Cervical stenosis. Cervical stenosis is a rare condition in which the cervix is so small or narrow that it slows menstrual flow, causing an increase of pressure inside the uterus that causes pain.
  • #53 Period Pain: Types, Causes, and Treatments
    https://www.health.com/condition/menstruation/period-pain
    Most menstruating people experience some level of pain during that time of the month. Normally, you can blame that discomfort on what’s going on with your uterus. […] The clinical term for period pain is dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea comes in two types: Primary and secondary. […] Primary dysmenorrhea, the cramping pain that comes before and during a period, is caused by changes in your body’s natural chemicals. Those chemicals, called prostaglandins, are made in the uterus lining. Prostaglandins cause the uterine muscles to contract, which helps the uterine lining shed through the vagina during menstrual bleeding. […] But in cases of primary dysmenorrhea, the body may produce more prostaglandins than normal. More prostaglandins cause more contractions and painful cramps. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain caused by an underlying health condition, such as uterine fibroids, tumors, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, adenomyosis, or uterine polyps. […] In the case of secondary dysmenorrhea, the pain typically gets worse over time. Additionally, the pain may last longer than regular period cramps.
  • #54 Period pain (dysmenorrhea): Types, causes, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/period-pain-dysmenorrhea
    Certain risk factors may contribute to the condition, including: smoking, stress, anxiety or depression, having excess weight, trying to lose weight, beginning periods at an early age, never having been pregnant, a family history of painful periods. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs as a result of another medical condition. Examples of conditions that can cause secondary dysmenorrhea include: Endometriosis, Uterine growths, Adenomyosis, Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Structural differences, Intrauterine device (IUD) use. […] It is possible for a person to have primary dysmenorrhea and then to develop secondary dysmenorrhea, making the existing pain worse. […] In cases of secondary dysmenorrhea, identifying and managing the cause is essential for reducing period pain. For example, a person with a uterine growth or endometriosis may benefit from surgery to remove growths that are causing pain.
  • #55 Dysmenorrhea – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560834/
    Prostaglandins (PGs) are thought to be the main cause of dysmenorrhea. Higher levels of PGs have been noted in the menstrual fluid and endometrial tissue of women with dysmenorrhea. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain due to an underlying disease, disorder, or structural abnormality within or outside the uterus. […] There are many common causes of secondary dysmenorrhea, including endometriosis, large cesarean scar niche, fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, interstitial cystitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and possibly the use of an intrauterine contraceptive system. […] Endometriosis and adenomyosis are the most common causes of secondary dysmenorrhea in premenopausal women.
  • #56 Dysmenorrhea – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysmenorrhea
    Secondary dysmenorrhea is the type of dysmenorrhea caused by another condition such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, uterine adenomyosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome. […] When laparoscopy is used for diagnosis, the most common cause of dysmenorrhea is endometriosis, in approximately 70% of adolescents. […] Other causes of secondary dysmenorrhea include leiomyoma, adenomyosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic congestion, and cavitated and accessory uterine mass.
  • #57 What causes painful periods, aka dysmenorrhea?
    https://naturalwomanhood.org/what-causes-painful-periods/
    What causes painful periods, aka dysmenorrhea? […] These symptoms may seem inevitable and difficult to understand, but there are a whole host of causes for period pain. […] Primary dysmenorrhea is painful cramping or abdominal pain that can occur either before or during your period. […] Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common type of period pain and isn’t associated with other disorders. It is caused by an excess of prostaglandins in the lining of the uterus. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain associated with reproductive organ disorders like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). […] According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, endometriosis is the most common cause of secondary dysmenorrhea. […] Other reproductive disorders that cause dysmenorrhea include adenomyosis, which is when the tissue lining the uterus grows down into the muscular layer of the uterus, causing heavy, painful periods and other symptoms like painful sex or spotting in between periods.
  • #58
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
    Endometriosis is a complex disease that affects many women globally from the onset of their first period (menarche) through menopause, regardless of ethnic origin or social status. Many different factors are thought to contribute to its development. At present endometriosis is thought to arise due to: […] The cause of endometriosis is unknown. There is no known way to prevent endometriosis. […] Retrograde menstruation is when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity at the time that blood is flowing out of the body through the cervix and vagina during periods. Retrograde menstruation can result in endometrial-like cells being deposited outside the uterus where they can implant and grow. […] Cellular metaplasia is when cells change from one form to another. Cells outside the uterus change into endometrial-like cells and start to grow.
  • #59
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
    Endometriosis is a complex disease that affects many women globally from the onset of their first period (menarche) through menopause, regardless of ethnic origin or social status. Many different factors are thought to contribute to its development. At present endometriosis is thought to arise due to: […] The cause of endometriosis is unknown. There is no known way to prevent endometriosis. […] Retrograde menstruation is when menstrual blood containing endometrial cells flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity at the time that blood is flowing out of the body through the cervix and vagina during periods. Retrograde menstruation can result in endometrial-like cells being deposited outside the uterus where they can implant and grow. […] Cellular metaplasia is when cells change from one form to another. Cells outside the uterus change into endometrial-like cells and start to grow.
  • #60
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
    Stem cells can give rise to the disease, which then spreads through the body via blood and lymphatic vessels. […] Other factors may also contribute to the growth or persistence of ectopic endometrial tissue. For example, endometriosis is known to be dependent on estrogen, which increases the inflammation, growth and pain associated with the disease. However, the relationship between estrogen and endometriosis is complex since the absence of estrogen does not always mean the absence of endometriosis.
  • #61
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
    Stem cells can give rise to the disease, which then spreads through the body via blood and lymphatic vessels. […] Other factors may also contribute to the growth or persistence of ectopic endometrial tissue. For example, endometriosis is known to be dependent on estrogen, which increases the inflammation, growth and pain associated with the disease. However, the relationship between estrogen and endometriosis is complex since the absence of estrogen does not always mean the absence of endometriosis.
  • #62 Period Pain (dysmenorrhea): Could It Be Endometriosis? – drseckin.com
    https://drseckin.com/period-pain/
    Dysmenorrhea is the scientific term used to describe painful periods. […] There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea. The former refers to period pain without an underlying medical condition. Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is caused by a disease or medical condition. […] Period pain is caused by an excess or imbalance in prostaglandin secretion from the lining of the uterus during periods. Prostaglandins are hormones that control inflammation, blood flow, and the formation of blood clots. […] In women with endometriosis, the levels of prostaglandins are even higher in menstrual blood than in women without the disease. This could explain why women with endometriosis experience periods of extreme pain. […] Research has also shown that the frequency, magnitude, and basal pressure tone of uterine contractions are higher in women with endometriosis compared to those without the disease.
  • #63 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Adenomyosis. The tissue that lines your uterus begins to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease. This infection of the female reproductive organs is usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. […] Cervical stenosis. In some women, the opening of the cervix is small enough to impede menstrual flow, causing a painful increase of pressure within the uterus.
  • #64 Period Pain (dysmenorrhea): Could It Be Endometriosis? – drseckin.com
    https://drseckin.com/period-pain/
    Painful periods are not always a sure sign of endometriosis. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea could be caused by a number of other underlying conditions. These could include: Adenomyosis, otherwise known as endometriosis of the uterus; a condition where the endometrial tissue that lines the uterus grows into the uterine muscle wall. […] The most common way to manage both primary and secondary dysmenorrhea is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin. […] A popular way to manage dysmenorrhea due to endometriosis is combined oral contraceptives. […] The gold standard for the treatment of endometriosis is laparoscopic deep excision surgery.
  • #65 9 causes of severe menstrual cramps | HealthShots
    https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/menstruation/severe-menstrual-cramps-causes/
    Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop inside or outside of the uterus. Symptoms range from heavy bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, back pain, leg pain, and constipation to severe cramps. […] PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. A study found that it can result in chronic pelvic pain, including severe menstrual cramps. […] Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This can cause the uterus to grow to two to three times its normal size and become tender, leading to heavy bleeding and painful period cramps. […] An IUD, particularly a copper IUD, can cause more intense menstrual cramps, especially during the first few months after insertion. The device might increase the production of prostaglandins or cause an inflammatory response in the uterus.
  • #66 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Adenomyosis. The tissue that lines your uterus begins to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease. This infection of the female reproductive organs is usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. […] Cervical stenosis. In some women, the opening of the cervix is small enough to impede menstrual flow, causing a painful increase of pressure within the uterus.
  • #67 Painful Menstrual Periods: Causes, Treatments & More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/painful-menstrual-periods
    Fibroids in the uterus. Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that can put pressure on the uterus or cause abnormal menstruation and pain, though they often don’t cause symptoms. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria that cause inflammation of the reproductive organs and pain. […] Adenomyosis. This is a rare condition in which the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing inflammation, pressure, and pain. It can also cause longer or heavier periods. […] Cervical stenosis. Cervical stenosis is a rare condition in which the cervix is so small or narrow that it slows menstrual flow, causing an increase of pressure inside the uterus that causes pain.
  • #68 Severe Menstrual Cramps? Potential Underlying Conditions | UPMC
    https://share.upmc.com/2019/10/causes-of-severe-menstrual-cramps/
    Potential Causes of Severe Period Pain […] Copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause severe menstrual cramps in some women. […] After examining you, the doctor may recommend tests to determine the cause of your abnormal period pain, which can include: […] Occasionally, endometrial cells that grow within the uterus may develop outside the uterine walls. As the displaced tissue grows, it can cause pain and even infertility. […] This disorder appears during puberty in up to 10 percent of women. That makes it the most common endocrine disorder among reproductive-age females, according to experts at the Center for Fertility and Reproductive Endocrinology at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital. […] Also known as fibromyomas, fibromas, myofibromas, and myomas, uterine fibroids are the most diagnosed pelvic tumor in females. Around half of all women have these noncancerous growths, but only a quarter of them experience symptoms. The most common symptom is period pain and excessive menstrual bleeding.
  • #69 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Adenomyosis. The tissue that lines your uterus begins to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease. This infection of the female reproductive organs is usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. […] Cervical stenosis. In some women, the opening of the cervix is small enough to impede menstrual flow, causing a painful increase of pressure within the uterus.
  • #70 Period pain | The causes, symptoms and treatments
    https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/article/period-pain-causes-symptoms-and-treatments
    Endometriosis is a women’s health condition where womb-lining cells begin to grow outside of the womb. […] Symptoms often start early in life, meaning many women simply accept them as normal. In most cases endometriosis is treatable, but the longer it goes undiagnosed the more damage it can do to your internal organs and reproductive system. […] During your menstrual cycle, the endometrial cells that sit outside the uterus thicken and bleed like normal. This means the pain comes on with your period as normal but is more severe and lasts longer than typical period pain. […] PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It occurs most frequently when sexually transmitted bacteria spread from your vagina to your uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. […] PID is a common condition that can be a cause of painful periods for women of any age. […] Most cases of PID are caused by a bacterial infection that’s spread from the vagina or the cervix to the reproductive organs. Many different types of bacteria can cause PID. In many cases, it’s caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
  • #71 Severe Menstrual Cramps? Potential Underlying Conditions | UPMC
    https://share.upmc.com/2019/10/causes-of-severe-menstrual-cramps/
    The most common symptom of PID is lower abdominal cramping and dull, achy discomfort. This condition is an infection of the reproductive organs caused by bacteria entering through the cervix. If left untreated, PID can cause irreparable damage, so its important to rule out this infection especially if youre experiencing a sudden worsening in menstrual cramps.
  • #72 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Adenomyosis. The tissue that lines your uterus begins to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease. This infection of the female reproductive organs is usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. […] Cervical stenosis. In some women, the opening of the cervix is small enough to impede menstrual flow, causing a painful increase of pressure within the uterus.
  • #73 Painful Menstrual Periods: Causes, Treatments & More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/painful-menstrual-periods
    Fibroids in the uterus. Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that can put pressure on the uterus or cause abnormal menstruation and pain, though they often don’t cause symptoms. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria that cause inflammation of the reproductive organs and pain. […] Adenomyosis. This is a rare condition in which the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing inflammation, pressure, and pain. It can also cause longer or heavier periods. […] Cervical stenosis. Cervical stenosis is a rare condition in which the cervix is so small or narrow that it slows menstrual flow, causing an increase of pressure inside the uterus that causes pain.
  • #74 9 causes of severe menstrual cramps | HealthShots
    https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/menstruation/severe-menstrual-cramps-causes/
    Cervical stenosis, also known as closed cervix, is a condition where the cervix is abnormally narrow or completely closed, which can impede menstrual flow. This causes a buildup of blood in the uterus, leading to increased pressure and pain. […] PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Women with this condition may notice symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, which can be accompanied by severe cramps. […] Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or in the ovaries. It can lead to symptoms such as heavy periods, sharp or dull pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, and discomfort during intercourse.
  • #75 Period pain
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/period-pain/
    Period pain usually happens to women around the start of their period. It can affect anyone who has periods. […] Period pain happens when your womb tightens during your period. It’s often a normal part of the menstrual cycle. […] Sometimes painful periods can be caused by a condition such as: womb tissue growing in other places (endometriosis and adenomyosis), growths in and around the womb (fibroids), an infection of the womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries (pelvic inflammatory disease). […] An intrauterine device (IUD) can also cause period pain, particularly during the first 3 to 6 months after it’s put in. […] You might need tests, such as an ultrasound scan, to find out what’s causing your period pain. If a condition is found, treating it will help.
  • #76 Menstrual Cramps Causes and Treatments
    https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-pain
    Other menstrual-type cramps can be caused by conditions of the reproductive tract, such as the following: Endometriosis — tissue similar to uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. Fibroids and adenomyosis — noncancerous (benign) growths in the uterus. Infections in the reproductive organs. Abnormal pregnancy, such as an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy in the tubes, outside the uterus). IUD (intrauterine device) used for birth control. Ovarian cyst. Narrow cervix.
  • #77 9 causes of severe menstrual cramps | HealthShots
    https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/menstruation/severe-menstrual-cramps-causes/
    Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop inside or outside of the uterus. Symptoms range from heavy bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, back pain, leg pain, and constipation to severe cramps. […] PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. A study found that it can result in chronic pelvic pain, including severe menstrual cramps. […] Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This can cause the uterus to grow to two to three times its normal size and become tender, leading to heavy bleeding and painful period cramps. […] An IUD, particularly a copper IUD, can cause more intense menstrual cramps, especially during the first few months after insertion. The device might increase the production of prostaglandins or cause an inflammatory response in the uterus.
  • #78 9 causes of severe menstrual cramps | HealthShots
    https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/menstruation/severe-menstrual-cramps-causes/
    Cervical stenosis, also known as closed cervix, is a condition where the cervix is abnormally narrow or completely closed, which can impede menstrual flow. This causes a buildup of blood in the uterus, leading to increased pressure and pain. […] PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Women with this condition may notice symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, which can be accompanied by severe cramps. […] Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or in the ovaries. It can lead to symptoms such as heavy periods, sharp or dull pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, and discomfort during intercourse.
  • #79 Irregular or Painful Periods – MU Health Care
    https://www.muhealth.org/conditions-treatments/womens-health/irregular-painful-periods
    Sometimes, though, irregular or painful periods are signs of an underlying condition, such as fibroids, endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). […] Common causes of painful or irregular periods include: […] Medical conditions, including thyroid problems, fibroids, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and others. […] Fibroids (noncancerous growths in your uterus) and endometriosis (when uterine lining tissue grows outside your uterus) are common causes of irregular periods.
  • #80 13 ways to stop period cramps | HealthPartners Blog
    https://www.healthpartners.com/blog/13-ways-to-stop-period-pain/
    Fibroids […] Uterine fibroids are benign growths that may develop in the lining of the uterus. […] Since fibroids grow in the uterine lining, they can cause heavy periods and painful menstrual cramps. […] Ovarian cysts […] Ovarian cysts can also be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). […] This can cause painful periods, difficulty getting pregnant, insulin resistance and other health concerns. […] PID (pelvic inflammatory disease) […] When the uterus and ovaries become infected, this is called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). […] Endometriosis […] The uterine lining, also known as the endometrium, grows inside the uterus. […] If you have endometriosis, your endometrium grows outside the uterus, usually in other parts of your reproductive organs like the ovaries or fallopian tubes. […] Adenomyosis […] Adenomyosis is a treatable condition where the endometrium grows into the muscle wall of the uterus.
  • #81 9 causes of severe menstrual cramps | HealthShots
    https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/menstruation/severe-menstrual-cramps-causes/
    Cervical stenosis, also known as closed cervix, is a condition where the cervix is abnormally narrow or completely closed, which can impede menstrual flow. This causes a buildup of blood in the uterus, leading to increased pressure and pain. […] PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Women with this condition may notice symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, which can be accompanied by severe cramps. […] Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or in the ovaries. It can lead to symptoms such as heavy periods, sharp or dull pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, and discomfort during intercourse.
  • #82
    https://www.yourdaye.com/en-us/vitals/womens-health/understanding-the-causes-of-menstrual-pain/?srsltid=AfmBOorgtQlTOvtgM01BH2I8eH6Py0M_APxb60UYChH0JT4TtI8zsHAI
    Secondary dysmenorrhea can feel the same as primary dysmenorrhea, but it’s caused by an underlying pelvic condition. […] Endometriosis is the most common cause of secondary dysmenorrhea. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease is the name for an infection of the reproductive organs which is usually caused by a bacterial infection that has spread from the vagina or cervix. […] Adenomyosis can cause more severe period pain as well as heavier bleeding. […] Growths of endometrial tissue that attach to the inner wall of the uterus and extend into the cavity are known as uterine polyps. […] Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary. […] Intrauterine devices are a form of long-term birth control inserted into the uterus. […] Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is characterised by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • #83 8 Reasons for Extremely Painful Menstrual Cramps
    https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/health/period/reasons-for-painful-cramps
    Several days before your period, you may experience cramps that can be really intense and not the same as the normal menstrual cramps. What can eventually cause them? […] Menstrual cramps can be caused by several reasons. Lets see the most severe of them. […] Endometriosis is the abnormal growth of endometrial cells. […] Leiomyoma causes painful cramps. […] Adenomyosis – reason for painful cramps. […] Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the womans reproductive organs that is often caused by some sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea. […] Cervical stenosis causes cramps because the blood finds it hard to pass through and causes painful pressure in the uterus, so it results in lots of cramps. […] Your uterus is formed while you are a female fetus in your mothers uterus and it is developed from a structure called the paramesonephric ducts. Sometimes, the uterus wont be formed as it should, which can lead to several things like infertility, painful intercourse, and period pain.
  • #84 Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods | ACOG
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods
    Adenomyosis develops when tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow in the muscle wall of the uterus. […] Certain defects that a woman is born with can result in pain during menstruation. […] Some medical conditions can flare up during a period and cause pain. These conditions include Crohns disease and urinary disorders.
  • #85 Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods | ACOG
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods
    Adenomyosis develops when tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow in the muscle wall of the uterus. […] Certain defects that a woman is born with can result in pain during menstruation. […] Some medical conditions can flare up during a period and cause pain. These conditions include Crohns disease and urinary disorders.
  • #86 Dysmenorrhea > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
    https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/dysmenorrhea
    Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for moderate to severe pain caused by menstrual periods: […] There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary, which means the pain is from menstruation itself, and secondary, which means the condition is caused by a reproductive system disorder that leads to painful menstrual cramps and other symptoms. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by conditions such as: Endometriosis, Uterine adenomyosis, Fibroids, Uterine abnormalities, Ovarian cysts, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Crohns disease, Urinary disorders. […] Experts believe that high levels of prostaglandins are responsible for primary dysmenorrhea. […] The uterus contracts throughout your menstrual cycle and more strongly during menstruation. But if the uterus contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels, cutting off the oxygen supply to muscle tissue. […] Because the uterine lining is shed during menstruation, the level of prostaglandins drops during a menstrual period, causing symptoms to ease.
  • #87 Dysmenorrhea > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
    https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/dysmenorrhea
    Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for moderate to severe pain caused by menstrual periods: […] There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary, which means the pain is from menstruation itself, and secondary, which means the condition is caused by a reproductive system disorder that leads to painful menstrual cramps and other symptoms. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by conditions such as: Endometriosis, Uterine adenomyosis, Fibroids, Uterine abnormalities, Ovarian cysts, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Crohns disease, Urinary disorders. […] Experts believe that high levels of prostaglandins are responsible for primary dysmenorrhea. […] The uterus contracts throughout your menstrual cycle and more strongly during menstruation. But if the uterus contracts too strongly, it can press against nearby blood vessels, cutting off the oxygen supply to muscle tissue. […] Because the uterine lining is shed during menstruation, the level of prostaglandins drops during a menstrual period, causing symptoms to ease.
  • #88 Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods | ACOG
    https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/dysmenorrhea-painful-periods
    Adenomyosis develops when tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow in the muscle wall of the uterus. […] Certain defects that a woman is born with can result in pain during menstruation. […] Some medical conditions can flare up during a period and cause pain. These conditions include Crohns disease and urinary disorders.
  • #89 Menstrual Pain and Other Symptoms – Your Period
    https://www.yourperiod.ca/abnormal-pain-and-menstrual-bleeding/menstrual-pain-and-other-symptoms/
    While some degree of menstrual discomfort is not unusual, severe pain may be a sign of a problem. […] However, when menstrual pain is severe, it can be a sign of a problem. […] One of the most common causes of intensely painful menstruation is endometriosis. […] The cause of endometriosis is not understood, there are several theories. […] What causes fibroids? The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but hormones and growth factors seem to play a role. […] What causes a uterine infection? Sometimes PID is caused by a sexually transmitted infection, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. […] What causes pelvic congestion syndrome? Pelvic congestion syndrome is caused by a failure of the valves in the pelvic veins surrounding the ovaries. […] What causes an ectopic pregnancy? It is not clear why ectopic pregnancies happen. […] What causes ovarian cysts? Most ovarian cysts are related to normal ovulation.
  • #90 Cramps But No Period: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
    https://www.medicinenet.com/why_am_i_having_menstrual_cramps_but_no_period/article.htm
    Menstrual cramps but no period may be due to smoking, anxiety, depression, and menstrual irregularities. […] Menstrual cramps can occur without a period due to various causes. […] Various risk factors may increase your odds of having strong pelvic or menstrual cramps that aren’t directly related to your period, such as: Smoking, Having longer menstrual cycles, A history of irregular menstrual flows, Having ovarian cysts, Anxiety or depression. […] There are many reasons why you might have period cramps but no period or pregnancy, and they may range from normal and natural to serious medical conditions. […] Here are just a few of the reasons you might have period-like cramps but no period: Ovulation, Anovulation, Ovarian cysts, Endometriosis, Interstitial cystitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). […] Given the wide variety of possible causes, it’s a good idea to have your symptoms checked out by a health professional if you’re experiencing unusual menstrual cramps.
  • #91 Menstrual cramps – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938
    Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen. […] Conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids can cause menstrual cramps. Treating the cause is key to reducing the pain. […] During your menstrual period, your uterus contracts to help expel its lining. Hormonelike substances (prostaglandins) involved in pain and inflammation trigger the uterine muscle contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more-severe menstrual cramps. […] Menstrual cramps can be caused by: Endometriosis. Tissue that acts similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, most commonly on fallopian tubes, ovaries or the tissue lining your pelvis. […] Uterine fibroids. These noncancerous growths in the wall of the uterus can cause pain.
  • #92 Severe Menstrual Cramps: Normal vs. Severe Pain, Causes, Relief Tips
    https://www.healthline.com/health/severe-menstrual-cramps
    Menstrual cramps can range from a mild nuisance lasting a day or two to several days of unbearable pain that interferes with everyday activities. […] The pain is caused by uterine contractions that happen just before or during the onset of your period. […] During your period, your uterus contracts to help shed its lining. These contractions are triggered by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more severe menstrual cramps. […] Some people tend to have more severe menstrual cramps without any clear cause. For others, severe menstrual cramps may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. […] Endometriosis is a chronic, noncancerous condition where cells that resemble the uterus lining, called endometrial cells, grow outside the uterus.
  • #93 Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention
    https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-cramps
    Menstrual cramps happen because of contractions in the uterus, or womb, which is a muscle. If it contracts too strongly during your menstrual cycle, it can press against nearby blood vessels. This briefly cuts off oxygen to the uterus. Its this lack of oxygen that causes your pain and cramping. […] You can also have cramps because of: […] Endometriosis, condition in which tissue that looks like the same tissue as what is lining the uterus (the endometrium) grows in places outside of the uterus […] Fibroids in your uterus […] Adenomyosis, where tissue that is similar to the tissue of your uterine lining is found within the uterine muscle […] Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection caused by bacteria that starts in the uterus and can spread to other reproductive organs […] Cervical stenosis, or a narrowing of the lower part of your uterus, caused by scarring, as well as a lack of estrogen after menopause. […] Certain things put you at a higher risk of menstrual cramps. You’re more likely to have them if you: […] Have a family history of menstrual cramps.
  • #94 Menstrual pain: its origin and pathogenesis – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7001019/
    A variety of misconceptions about the etiology of dysmenorrhea have existed in the past. […] Experimental and clinical research of the last 15 years, however, has identified uterine prostaglandins as substantially contributing to the pathogenesis of primary dysmenorrhea. […] It is now known that at the end of the menstrual cycle, prostaglandins increase myometrial contractions and cause constriction of small endometrial blood vessels, with consequent tissue ischemia, endometrial disintegration, bleeding and pain. […] Dysmenorrhea may be due to tissue ischemia resulting from increased intrauterine pressure, vessel constriction and decreased uterine blood flow. […] The most compelling evidence for the „prostaglandin theory” is the success of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. […] The pain relief achieved with these drugs is accompanied by a suppression of prostaglandin synthesis and a decrease in intrauterine pressure.
  • #95 What causes period pain and what can I do to reduce the severity
    https://optimalperiod.com/exploring-symptoms-2-period-pain/
    Period pain is the most commonly experienced symptom related to the menstrual cycle. Research suggests over 90% of women who menstruate will experience menstrual cramps at some point in their life. You may hear or read menstrual pain called dysmenorrhea. Medically dysmenorrhea is defined as primary dysmenorrhea (focus for this post) or secondary dysmenorrhea. […] The cause of menstrual cramps is still uncertain, attributed to several factors including lack of blood flow (ischemia) and therefore oxygen deficiency of the uterus caused by increased intrauterine pressure and vessel constriction, behavioural or psychological factors and increased production and release of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins (specifically PGF2-alpha and PGE-2 if you are interested) cause uterine contractions, the higher the level of prostaglandins the more severe the menstrual cramps can be. […] Prostaglandins play a very important role in the body, are natural and necessary. However, sometimes your body can have excessive amounts as is the case with painful or heavy periods.
  • #96 From sharp butt pains to period poos: 5 lesser-known menstrual cycle symptoms
    https://theconversation.com/from-sharp-butt-pains-to-period-poos-5-lesser-known-menstrual-cycle-symptoms-191352
    Period pain is a common symptom of the menstrual cycle, affecting about 70% of young women but its far from the only symptom. […] This happens because when you menstruate, your body releases a special chemical called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help the uterus to cramp, which helps push menstrual blood out of the uterus and into the vagina so it can leave the body. […] When you get period pain (especially if a person has endometriosis) a nerve in the back called the dorsal root ganglion is activated. […] This same process can make the bowel sensitive, which can lead to bowel pain or irritable bowel syndrome and contributes to changes in bowel habits like diarrhoea or constipation. […] This is related to the cramping that occurs when prostaglandins are released in the body and the nerve in the back (the dorsal root ganglion) is activated.
  • #97 What Causes Extreme Pain During Your Period? | Allara Health
    https://www.allarahealth.com/blog/what-to-do-about-period-pain
    Endometriosis (aka endo) is another common cause of secondary dysmenorrhea, and excessively painful periods. Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition in which tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus, grows outside of the uterus, leading to pain and dysfunction including: Systemic inflammation, Adhesions that restrict the normal movement of organs and tissues, Nerve sensitization, Pressure of endometrial tissues on surrounding organs and tissues, Central nervous system changes that amplify pain, Pelvic floor muscle spasms.
  • #98 From sharp butt pains to period poos: 5 lesser-known menstrual cycle symptoms
    https://theconversation.com/from-sharp-butt-pains-to-period-poos-5-lesser-known-menstrual-cycle-symptoms-191352
    Fatigue can be due to the brains experience of pain. We can measure changes in the brain when people experience pelvic pain. Ongoing pain signalling to the brain causes these changes, which results in extreme tiredness and sometimes headaches and nausea. […] When these symptoms are severe, they can be due to conditions such as endometriosis.
  • #99 DYSMENORRHEA: PERIOD PAIN CAUSES, MANAGEMENT & WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR | Mya Care
    https://myacare.com/blog/dysmenorrhea-period-pain-causes-management-when-to-see-a-doctor
    Other conditions can also cause secondary dysmenorrhea, including adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and cervical stenosis. […] Invariably, many reproductive conditions that induce secondary dysmenorrhea are associated with severe hormonal disturbances, metabolic issues, and immune dysfunction, typically displaying an inflammatory phenotype. Pain can be much more extreme in secondary dysmenorrhea, not only because of more inflammation being present but also because of nervous system alterations that increase pain sensitivity.
  • #100 What’s Up, Down There: Why Do We Get Pain Back There During Our Period? – Axia Women’s Health
    https://axiawh.com/resources/why-do-we-get-pain-back-there-during-our-period/
    Bloating, acne, fatigue, and abdominal cramps are common period symptoms that many of us know all too well. […] But recently, a TikTok user shed light on another surprising period symptom butt cramps. […] As it turns out, there is a real medical term for this phenomenon known as proctalgia fugax or fleeting anal pain. […] According to medical experts, it is normal to experience cramps in your abdomen, back, and yes, even your anus, during your period. […] During your period, hormones called prostaglandins are released, which cause the muscles of the uterus to contract, causing the lining of the uterus to shed. Prostaglandins can also trigger contractions of the rectum and the pelvic floor muscles around the anal canal, which can cause a painful spasm or cramping feeling back there.
  • #101 What Causes Extreme Pain During Your Period? | Allara Health
    https://www.allarahealth.com/blog/what-to-do-about-period-pain
    Endometriosis (aka endo) is another common cause of secondary dysmenorrhea, and excessively painful periods. Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition in which tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus, grows outside of the uterus, leading to pain and dysfunction including: Systemic inflammation, Adhesions that restrict the normal movement of organs and tissues, Nerve sensitization, Pressure of endometrial tissues on surrounding organs and tissues, Central nervous system changes that amplify pain, Pelvic floor muscle spasms.
  • #102 Dysmenorrhea: Menstrual Cramps, Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4148-dysmenorrhea
    If a medical condition is causing painful periods, there can be complications. For example, conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can lead to infertility or ectopic pregnancy. […] If testing shows that you have secondary dysmenorrhea, your provider will discuss treatment for the condition causing you pain.
  • #103 Period pain (dysmenorrhea): Types, causes, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/period-pain-dysmenorrhea
    Certain risk factors may contribute to the condition, including: smoking, stress, anxiety or depression, having excess weight, trying to lose weight, beginning periods at an early age, never having been pregnant, a family history of painful periods. […] Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs as a result of another medical condition. Examples of conditions that can cause secondary dysmenorrhea include: Endometriosis, Uterine growths, Adenomyosis, Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Structural differences, Intrauterine device (IUD) use. […] It is possible for a person to have primary dysmenorrhea and then to develop secondary dysmenorrhea, making the existing pain worse. […] In cases of secondary dysmenorrhea, identifying and managing the cause is essential for reducing period pain. For example, a person with a uterine growth or endometriosis may benefit from surgery to remove growths that are causing pain.
  • #104 What Causes Period Cramps? Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments
    https://www.naturalcycles.com/cyclematters/what-causes-period-cramps
    Treating or managing the root cause will help relieve the symptoms. […] Severe period cramps can be the result of both primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. […] If there’s no clear cause for the pain found during the initial exam and your doctor thinks that it could be caused by another condition, they may also do some imaging tests, like an ultrasound or MRI scan, to diagnose or rule out secondary dysmenorrhea.