Primary Dysmenorrhea
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
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.