Menstruation & dysmenorrhea

Menstruation is the physiological discharge of blood, endometrial debris, and mucus from the monthly cycling of female reproductive hormones. Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is the most common gynecologic problem in the US. Primary dysmenorrhea is pain without identifiable pelvic disease, prompted by increased prostaglandins in menstrual fluids; secondary dysmenorrhea is associated with an underlying pelvic disorder (endometriosis, PID, ovarian cysts).

Symptoms: lower abdominal cramping, often with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness - beginning at or a few hours before menstrual flow. Pain usually tapers within 2 days; prolonged pain warrants referral.

📖 “Dysmenorrhea = most common gynecologic problem. Primary (no pelvic disease, prostaglandin-driven) vs secondary (endometriosis, PID, ovarian cysts).”