Menstrual disorders

Menstrual disorders include symptoms that mostly occur during a woman's period as part of the normal hormone cycle.

Overview

Menstrual disorders include symptoms that mostly occur during a woman's period as part of the normal hormone cycle. The typical cramping pain in the lower abdomen (dysmenorrhoea) is caused by womb contractions. Heating pads, sport and relaxation can help to relieve symptoms. Related topics include premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual irregularities.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

  • Cycle-related cramping pains in the lower abdomen (dysmenorrhoea, period pains)
    • Radiating to the back
Other symptoms (see also "PMS")

Causes and treatment

Causes

  • Monthly hormone changes (menstrual cycle)
  • Contraction of the muscular wall of the womb (lining detaches and is expelled along with blood)
Various factors play a role
  • Smoking
  • Very young women who start their periods early
  • Very slim women (BMI < 20)
  • Strain, stress
  • Endometriosis, myomas, cysts
  • Problems with a contraceptive coil

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests
  • Gynaecological examination
  • Blood test
  • Ultrasound
Possible therapies
  • Contraceptive pill
  • Painkillers such as ibuprofen (NSAIDs)
  • Antispasmodic medication such as Buscopan
  • Measures applied by alternative medicine

What can I do myself?

When to see a doctor?

  • Obvious or constant worsening of symptoms
  • Severe psychological strain/negative impact on daily life
  • Changes in duration and severity of periods
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause

Synonyms

menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhoea, period pains

Exclusion of liability

CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.