Nausea and vomiting, constipation or diarrhea may also be present. If the pain is severe, light-headiness may be experienced. Primary dysmenorrhea typically begins with the onset of the menstrual period and usually does not last more than two days. Secondary dysmenorrhea may begin prior to the menstrual period and last throughout the period. The first important step in treatment is to see a Women's Health Care clinician for an examination in order to rule out the possibility of underlying disease or anatomic abnormality as the cause of dysmenorrhea.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is often difficult to identify and treat.
There are a number of treatment alternatives for primary dysmenorrhea. Antiprostaglandin medications, which inhibit the production of prostaglandin hormones, are available and frequently provide relief. These include ibuprofen and aspirin, which can be purchased over the counter, and related medications, which require prescriptions. They are non-narcotic. Women who are allergic to aspirin, have severe or persistent anemia, or have ulcers or intestinal bleeding Should not take these medications without consulting a clinician .