DYSMENORRHOEA( MENSTRUAL CRAMPS) Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual periods which are caused by uterine contractions. Having menstrual cramps is one of the most common, annoying parts of your period. They can strike right before or during that time of the month. Many women get them routinely. You’ll feel these cramps in your lower belly or back. They can range from mild to severe. They usually happen for the first time a year or two after a girl first gets her period. With age, they usually become less painful and may stop entirely after you have your first baby. SYMPTONS Chances are, you know all too well how it feels. You may have: Aching pain in your belly (sometimes severe) Feeling of pressure in your belly Pain in the hips, lower back, and inner thighs When cramps are severe, symptoms may include: Upset stomach, sometimes with vomiting WHAT CAUSES THE CRAMPS Menstrual cramps happen because of contractions in the uterus, or womb, which is a muscle. If it contracts too strongly during your menstrual cycle, it can press against nearby blood vessels. This briefly cuts off the supply of oxygen to the uterus. It’s this lack of oxygen causes your pain and cramping. TYPES OF DYSMENORRHOEA 1) PRIMARY 2) SECONDARY to be continued::::; dr nandini shete