Menstrual Cramps (cont.)

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Menstrual Cramps At A Glance

  • Menstrual cramps are periodic abdominal and pelvic pains experienced by women.
  • More than half of all menstruating women have cramps.
  • The cramps are severe in at least one in seven of these women.
  • Medically, menstrual cramps are called dysmenorrhea.
  • Primary dysmenorrhea is common menstrual cramps without an identifiable cause.
  • Secondary dysmenorrhea results from an underlying abnormality that usually involves the woman's reproductive system.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat cramps.
  • Physical exercise can help alleviate menstrual cramps.
  • Menstrual cramps tend to improve with age.

REFERENCE: MedscapeReference. Menstruation Disorders.


Reviewed by William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR on 7/26/2011

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Menstrual Cramps - Adolescent Girls Question: If you are under age 18, describe your experience with menstrual cramps.
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