Secondary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
About Secondary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
Painful menstruation resulting from another diagnosis in the pelvis. Disorders that cause secondary dysmenorrhea include: endometriosis, salpingitis, PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), postsurgical adhesions, ovarian cyst and an IUD. The pain begins a few days before menstruation and lasts several days after the onset of flow.Symptoms
Pelvic pain, pelvic tenderness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, diarrhea.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Other tests will be done to establish the diagnosis.Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Ultrasound.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment of the secondary cause of the pain is performed. The symptoms are controlled with: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), pain medications, birth control pills. Some problems resulting in pelvic pain improve with surgery.Medical specialties
Obstetrics and Gynecology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Secondary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation).