Primary Dysmenorrhea

Introduction

Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain associated with menstrual cycles I the absence of pathological findings.

Primary dysmenorrhea pain usually begins within 1-2 years after the menarche and may become progressively more severe. The frequency of cases increases up to age 20 and then decrease with both increasing age and parity.

Management

• Tab Brufen 200-600mg 1 tab PO TDS OR
• Tab Mefenamic acid (ponstan) 500mg 1 tab PO TDS (Should be started 1-2 days before expected menses.
• Symptoms can be suppressed with the use of combined hormonal contraceptives, DMPA, etonogestrel subdermal implant (Nexplanon), or the levonogestrel releasing IUD.
• For women who do not wish to use contraceptive, other therapies have been shown have some benefits includes local heat; Thiamine, 100mg/day PO. Vit E 200units/day PO from 2 days prior to and for the 1st three days of menses and high frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.