(^502) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
Dysmenorrhea
Menstrual pain occurring after ovulation for which no cause can be discerned is
called dysmenorrhea.WHAT WENT WRONG?
Dysmenorrhea is caused by the changing hormones in the reproductive cycle.
Uterine contractions from prostaglandins and blood vessel constriction in
the uterine lining cause the discomfort as the enriched lining prepares to be
sloughed off.PROGNOSIS
Dysmenorrhea usually begins one to two years after menarche and becomes
more acute with age. Pregnancy often diminishes the severity of dysmenorrhea,
as does age. Some women are debilitated for several days per month. A large
majority of women experience some degree of discomfort.HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Cramps from small uterine contractions
- Nausea from fluctuating hormone levels
- Headache from declining hormone levels
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- Pelvic exam is normal.
- Hemoglobin and hematocrit may be slightly declined from excessive blood
loss.
TREATMENTS
- Over-the-counter preparations.
- Hot water bottles.
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