Primary dysmenorrhea means you've always had painful periods, ever since you started menstruating. Secondary dysmenorrhea means that your periods have become more painful with time. In either case, painful periods are common, and there are medications that can alleviate cramps. Cramps are caused by uterine contractions, which is how the lining is pushed out. Some uteri contract more than others. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication such as naproxen sodium (Anaprox) before your period starts can really help. If you're young, birth control pills can help. It's also important to distinguish normal cramping from unusual, debilitating pain. Endometriosis, a serious disease, is often the culprit behind severe pain during your period. After you read the section below, if you suspect your dysmenorrhea is a sign of something more serious, let your doctor know your suspicions and request a confirmation of diagnosis. If your pain is severe enough to cause you to miss work, school, or pleasurable activities, there's a 40 percent chance that you may be suffering from endometriosis.

Treatment

Initial treatment is focused on relief of pain. Anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful; this includes over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen (available over-the-counter or in prescription strengths), and prescription-only medications such as indomethacin.

In some severe cases, and with disorders such as endometriosis, oral contraceptives can be helpful. They are used in this case to regulate the hormone levels in the body (they may be prescribed even for girls who are not sexually active).

Expectations

Good relief is expected from treatment with mild analgesics. Oral contraceptives generally control severe dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea associated with a disease state responds to treatment of the primary problem.

Complications

There are no complications from functional dysmenorrhea. Complications may develop from disease-induced dysmenorrhea based on the disease or condition present.