What Can I Do About Painful Cramps?

Dysmenorrhea refers to painful menstrual cramps that occur before or during a woman’s period. While some discomfort is common, dysmenorrhea can cause significant pain that interferes with daily life. It is one of the most frequent gynecological complaints, especially among teens and young adults. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage and treat this condition effectively, especially with guidance from a women’s health provider.

Common Causes

There are two main types of dysmenorrhea:

Primary Dysmenorrhea – Caused by normal menstrual cycles and not linked to other medical conditions. It usually begins in the teens and may improve with age or childbirth.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea – Caused by underlying reproductive health issues, including:
- Endometriosis (tissue similar to the uterine lining growing outside the uterus)
- Uterine fibroids (noncancerous growths)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Adenomyosis (uterine lining growing into the muscle wall)
- Ovarian cysts

Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment.

Symptoms

The severity can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits normal activities. Common signs of dysmenorrhea include:

Cramping pain in the lower abdomen or back
Throbbing or dull aches before and during menstruation
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue
Headache or dizziness
Diarrhea or loose stools during menstruation

Diagnosis

To diagnose dysmenorrhea, a healthcare provider will:

Early diagnosis helps rule out underlying disorders and guide proper treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment for dysmenorrhea depends on its type and severity:

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen
Hormonal birth control (pills, patches, IUDs) to reduce or eliminate periods
Lifestyle changes, including exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management
Heating pads to relax uterine muscles and reduce pain
Prescription medications for more severe cases
Surgical treatment in rare cases (e.g., for endometriosis or fibroids)

A personalized plan from your provider ensures the most effective relief.

Take control of your health

with Advanced Women's Care

Painful periods shouldn’t be something you just “deal with.” At Advanced Women’s Care, we take dysmenorrhea seriously and work with you to find long-term relief. Whether your cramps are mild or debilitating, expert care can make a real difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait—schedule a visit to take the first step toward comfort and control.