Dra. Joana Faria

Menstrual Pain

There are 2 types of menstrual pain (or period pain or dysmenorrhea):

Primary: is the most common type; you feel cramping pain in the lower abdomen (belly) that may start 1-2 days before the period starts and usually lasts up to 2-4 days.

Secondary: when the cramps are a result of a medical problem such as endometriosis (check it out in the topic “endometriosis”)

The cramps are caused by uterine contractions. The uterus lining releases hormones called prostaglandins that increase the strength of the contractions. High levels of prostaglandins may also cause nausea, diarrhoea and lightheadedness.

Mild menstrual cramps are usually normal. However, if the discomfort is not relieved with over-the-counter medications (such as ibuprofen) or causes you to miss school, work or other activities, you should talk to your doctor.

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