Dysmenorrhea is the medical term used to describe painful cramps during menstruation. These are caused by uterine contractions. As the uterus tightens, it can press on nearby blood vessels and cut off the oxygen supply to muscle tissue. This causes the discomfort some women experience.

Two Types of Dysmenorrhea

There are two types of dysmenorrhea. The first is called primary dysmenorrhea and includes common menstrual cramps.  The other is secondary dysmenorrhea. This is the result of a disorder in the reproductive organs. It can be caused by several different conditions, including:

• Benign tumors (fibroids) – Growths found along uterus’ inner wall
• Pelvic inflammatory disease – Bacterial infection in the uterus that can spread
• Cervical stenosis – narrowing of the uterine opening
• Adenomyosis – Occurs when uterine lining grows into muscle
• Endometriosis – Tissue that lines the uterus is found outside of it

Reducing Menstrual Cramps

If you experience secondary dysmenorrhea, you should talk to your gynecologist about treatment options. For women with primary dysmenorrhea, you can try the following methods to help reduce pain and discomfort.

• Rest as needed during your period
• Avoid salt and caffeine
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco
• Massage your abdomen and lower back
• Start exercising regularly (ask your doctor before beginning an exercise program)

You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If these methods do not help, talk to your gynecologist about additional options. You may be prescribed a higher dose of Ibuprofen or a similar pain reliever. Some women take oral contraceptives to help manage menstrual pain.

Make an appointment with Women’s Health in West Bloomfield if you have period discomfort to ensure that you aren’t experiencing the effects of an underlying health condition.

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A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the uterus. There are three primary types of hysterectomy that your doctor may recommend based on your medical needs. They include:

• Total Hysterectomy – This procedure includes removal of the uterus and cervix.
• Subtotal Hysterectomy – This procedure includes removal of the uterus only, leaving the cervix intact.
• Radical Hysterectomy – This procedure involves removal of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, and support structures. Lymph nodes may also be removed.

Why Do I Need a Hysterectomy?

The idea of having a hysterectomy may sound frightening. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that around 600,000 women in America have hysterectomies each year. This procedure is one of the most common surgeries women undergo in the country. It is done for multiple reasons, including:

• Prolapsed uterus
• Cancer found in the cervix, ovaries, or womb
• Heavy periods that are often caused by fibroids
• Pelvic pain due to fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Medically Necessary vs. Elective Hysterectomies

Out of those 600,000 women quoted by the CDC, an estimated 20% to 30% or more have a medically unnecessary hysterectomy. Women with endometrium issues like polyps, fibroids, and heavy bleeding may choose to have the surgery to relieve discomfort.

A prolapsed uterus happens when the pelvic organs descend due to weakened ligaments or muscles. This can lead to problems with intercourse, increased discharge, constipation, cosmetic issues, and discomfort. Women can choose to have a uterine suspension or a hysterectomy to correct the problem.

In cases involving cancer, a hysterectomy may be deemed medically necessary if the patient has progressed to an advanced stage. The procedure can be used to treat cervical, ovarian, uterine, and fallopian tube cancer.

Your OB/GYN can provide more insight into whether a hysterectomy is the best option for you. Contact your gynecologist at Women’s Health and Menopause Center today to make an appointment.

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