While most menstrual abnormalities are not cause for concern, they can sometimes signal other medical problems. Therefore, all persistent menstrual abnormalities should be evaluated by a physician. Many problems can be effectively treated with hormonal therapies or other options. However, for some women, these contractions cause severe lower abdominal cramps that can begin several hours or days before the onset of menstruation. Primary dysmenorrhea is characterized by intense menstrual cramps that usually begin within the first three years of menstruation.
Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by normal uterine contractions.
Many women find that nonprescription drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium relieve these cramps. In many cases, these women may simply have thicker uterine linings that cause them to bleed longer. Women who experience heavy periods should report the problem to their physicians for further investigation. Heavy bleeding that is independent of other conditions can often be treated with oral contraceptives or other hormonal therapy. Oligomenorrhea is defined as having fewer than eleven menstrual periods a year.