Others concentrate on gynecology, diagnosing and treating disorders of the female reproductive and urinary systems. These physicians also diagnose and treat infertility. Menstrual Disorders Dysmenorrhea , or extremely painful menstruation, is a widespread problem, affecting some 10 percent of all women of childbearing age. During menstruation, natural chemicals called prostaglandins make the uterus and its blood vessels contract. Very strong contractions can be painful.
Primary dysmenorrhea occurs when the prostaglandins provoke an overly vigorous uterine response.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by such abnormalities as infection, a tumor, or a disorder called endometriosis. About one in 10 women has PMS severe enough to create problems at work, at home, and in social relationships. It was once assumed that PMS was simply the result of an hormonal imbalance. We now know that most women who suffer from PMS have normal hormone levels. The cells may be found on the outside of the uterus, in the ovaries or fallopian tubes, or on the bowels.