The level of prostaglandin increases in the second half of the menstrual cycle. When a woman's period begins, the cells in the uterine lining release prostaglandin as they are shed. Women with severe primary dysmenorrhea have significantly higher prostaglandin levels in their menstrual fluid than do other women. The only good thing that can be said about primary dysmenorrhea is that usually the symptoms don't last very long. Some women experience symptoms for up to one or two days, but rarely longer.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by a physical condition.
Women who suffer from it tend to be older than those with primary dysmenorrhea. It may preceed the onset of period for about a week. The pain is often a dull ache felt equally on both sides of the lower abdomen and back, sometimes extending down the thighs. If everything is normal, then generally analgesics like aspirin ibuprofen, or naproxen are recommended. The most effective medical treatment is to use the birth-control pill.