Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods)

Many women are plagued by menstrual cramps from time to time, but did you know that there is a medical term for it? Dysmenorrhea is the official name for menstrual cramps. Cramps can occur right before your period is about to start, and might continue for several days. While some women may be able to cope with these lower abdominal cramps, they may at times, debilitate you. You may sometimes notice other symptoms that coincide with the cramps including diarrhea, sweating, nausea, and/or feeling faint. Some women find that medication helps to ease their menstrual cramps, while others swear by the use of a heating pad and other non-drug therapies. Interestingly, childbirth can sometimes put an end to dysmenorrheal, unless it has been caused by a medical state. Talk to your doctor to discuss pain relief options that will work for you.