Diseases, Conditions & Concerns / Question
Published: April 7, 2005
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I was recently told by my doctor that I had Dysmenorrhea, after going to talk to her about complaints that I was in incapacitating pain from cramps during my period and Advil didn't work and my period was also extremely heavy and lasted almost a week and was rather irregular, comming up two weeks late sometimes. Not only that, but I got serious mood swings. She put me on medication and it isn't helping, but I was wondering what causes Dysmenorrhea? I haven't had it since my period started, only for the last year or so, so I know it was not something I was born with.
Signed: Recently Told I Had Dysmenorrhea
Dear Recently Told I Had Dysmenorrhea,
Dysmenorrhea is related to excessive secretions of hormones (prostaglandin and vasopressin) from the endometrium, which is the lining of your uterus. These hormones stimulate uterine contractions and increase the resting tone of the uterus, causing pain and cramps. Dysmenorrhea can be very painful and interfere in daily life activities for women.
You were correct in that you were not born with this, but there is an increase in women who have family members with Dysmenorrhea. Chances are someone else in your family is also affected with this disorder. Hope this helped you to understand more.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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