Causes
Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by high levels of prostaglandins in the uterus. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances normally found throughout the body.
Secondary dysmenorrhea can be caused by:
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (infection of the female reproductive organs)
- Uterine fibroids (noncancerous growths in the uterus)
- Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs)
- Scars inside the abdomen from previous surgery
- Tumors
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea include:
- Ovulatory menstrual cycles ( a normal physiologic condition)
- Age: less than 20 years old
- Early onset of menstruation (less than 12 years old)
- Depression or anxiety
- Attempts to lose weight (in women 14-20 years old)
- Heavy bleeding during periods
- Nulliparity (never having delivered a baby)
- Smoking
The presence of a known cause of secondary dysmenorrhea (see “Causes”) is a risk factor for developing the condition.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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