GENERAL MEASURES
Pelvic exam and a patient history may help suggest the cause of dysmenorrhea.
Initial treatment aims are to relieve pain. Long term goals of treatment involve treating any underlying cause with medication, counseling or possibly surgery.
Heat helps relieve pain. Use a heating pad or hot-water bottle on the abdomen or back, or take hot baths. Sit in a tub of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes as often as necessary.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) treatment may help relieve pain.
Psychotherapy or counseling, if dysmenorrhea is stress related
Hypnosis therapy may help.
Treatment as required, for the cause for the secondary dysmenorrhea.
Surgery may be recommended for women whose pain cannot be controlled by medications.
MEDICATION
For minor discomfort, use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen.
Other medications that may be prescribed are antiprostaglandins (for painful menstrual periods) and oral contraceptives, which prohibit ovulation.
In severe cases, hormones (e.g., gonadotropin-releasing hormone ([Gn-RH]) can stop ovary function and relieve pain.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions. When resting in bed, elevate your feet or bend your knees and lie on your side.
Regular, vigorous exercise reduces discomfort of future periods.
DIET
Reduce or discontinue consumption of any caffeine containing beverages or foods.
You may be prescribed vitamin-B supplements. These help relieve symptoms in some persons.
Herbal teas may help reduce symptoms of dysmenorrhea for some women.
Hilton Johani is a leading expert on period pains,Tinnitus, hyperacusis and Menieres disease and has been running his tinnitus related website since 1999.
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