Health Steward Q&A Women’s Health

What is long-term dysmenorrhea?

Asked by:Blanton

Asked on:Apr 12, 2026 12:49 AM

Answers:1 Views:420
  • Felicia Felicia

    Apr 12, 2026

    Long-term dysmenorrhea may be related to endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, primary dysmenorrhea and other factors. Dysmenorrhea usually presents with lower abdominal distension, lumbosacral pain, nausea and vomiting and other symptoms, which can be relieved by hot compress, drug analgesia, hormone therapy, surgical treatment and other methods.

    1. Endometriosis

    Endometriosis is a disease caused by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, which may be related to reflux of menstrual blood and immune abnormalities. Typical symptoms are progressively worsening dysmenorrhea, often accompanied by painful sexual intercourse and painful defecation. Drugs such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, dienogest tablets, and goserelin sustained-release implants can be used as directed by the doctor to inhibit intimal growth. In severe cases, laparoscopic surgery is required to remove the lesions.

    2. Adenomyosis

    Adenomyosis is caused by the invasion of the endometrium into the myometrium, and is more common in multiparous women. Dysmenorrhea continues to worsen and menstrual flow increases. Ultrasound examination showed uniform enlargement of the uterus. In mild cases, diclofenac sodium suppositories and levonorgestrel intrauterine sustained-release systems can be used to relieve symptoms. Hysterectomy is required when conservative treatment is ineffective.

    3. Pelvic inflammatory disease

    Dysmenorrhea caused by chronic pelvic inflammatory disease is usually dull pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by abnormal leucorrhea and low fever. Pathogen infection is the main cause. Treatment requires the use of antibiotics such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection and metronidazole sodium chloride injection as directed by the doctor, in conjunction with pelvic floor microwave physiotherapy. Bed rest is required during acute attacks.

    4. Uterine fibroids

    Submucosal uterine fibroids can lead to prolonged menstrual periods and aggravated dysmenorrhea, and are related to the compression of the uterine cavity by the fibroids. Ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis. For small fibroids, mifepristone tablets can be used to reduce the size of uterine fibroids. For larger fibroids, myomectomy or uterine artery embolization is required.

    5. Primary dysmenorrhea

    Primary dysmenorrhea without organic disease is more common in young women and is related to excessive secretion of prostaglandins. The pain usually begins within 1-2 years of menarche. Symptoms can be relieved by applying hot compresses to the abdomen, taking naproxen sodium tablets, short-acting contraceptive pills drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets. Avoid colds and strenuous exercise during menstruation.

    Patients with long-term dysmenorrhea should record the degree of pain and accompanying symptoms, avoid eating cold and spicy foods, and drink ginger tea or hot milk appropriately during menstruation. It is recommended to wear loose clothing and use a warm baby to apply heat to the lower abdomen. If dysmenorrhea affects normal life or non-menstrual pain occurs, you need to see a gynecologist promptly to check for organic diseases. Regular gynecological examinations can help detect lesions early.

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