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What is dysmenorrhea?

Dysmenorrhea is a medical term used for severe cramps and pain in the lower abdomen during or before periods. There are two types of dysmenorrhea

Primary; which is caused by the imbalance of hormones in the body, it starts before or during the period and is experienced as severe and consistent cramps in the back, abdomen or thigh for a couple of days.
Secondary which generally indicates an underlying problem in the reproductive organs for people with vulva. The pain here lasts longer than usual.

Both primary and secondary dysmenorrhea are treatable and need attention when it is affecting your daily life.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4148-dysmenorrhea

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/dysmenorrhea

https://www.webmd.com/women/menstrual-cramps

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