Dysmenorrhea

Question 1

Cause of primary dysmenorrhea

Answer 1

presence of “prostaglandins” released from the endometrium at the beginning of menses

they induce uterine contractions
results in uterine ischemia and accumulation of metabolites that stimulate pain nerves

usually begins in adolescence after ovulatory cycles are established
mild to severe pain

generally improves with age

Question 2

Cause of secondary dysmenorrhea

Answer 2

caused by a disorder
ex. endometriosis (MOST COMMON cause)
leiomyomata