Menstrual Pain: Primary vs. Secondary Dysmenorrhea - What you need to know

While many women experience mild discomfort during their menstrual period, some experience severe pain that can affect their quality of life. In this article we will explain the differences between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea and help You better understand Your pain.

What is primary dysmenorrhea?

Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common form of menstrual cramps. It occurs in women who have no underlying medical conditions. Pain usually begins a day or two before menstruation and can be worst during the first few days of menstruation. Women with primary dysmenorrhea may experience cramps, abdominal pain, back pain, and nausea.

The cause of primary dysmenorrhea is an increased release of prostaglandins, which promote uterine contraction during menstruation. An increased amount of prostaglandins leads to stronger and longer contractions of the uterus, which leads to pain.

What is secondary dysmenorrhea?

Secondary dysmenorrhea occurs in women who have an underlying condition, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or adenomyosis. Women with secondary dysmenorrhea often have more pain than women with primary dysmenorrhea. The pain can occur independently of the menstrual cycle and last longer than the pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea.

The pain in secondary dysmenorrhea can also be localized differently than in primary dysmenorrhea. Women with secondary dysmenorrhea may experience pelvic, lower back, lower abdominal, or thigh pain. Other symptoms may include fatigue, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.

Treatment of dysmenorrhea

Treatment for dysmenorrhea depends on the type and severity of the pain. Women with primary dysmenorrhea can take pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve their pain. Warming the abdomen with a hot water bottle or heating pad may also help.

Women with secondary dysmenorrhea may need more specific treatment to treat the underlying condition. This may include hormone therapy, surgery, or other medical treatments.

Step by step to more well-being during the period: tips for relieving menstrual pain

You're not alone! Many women struggle with menstrual cramps during their periods. But there are a few things You can do to make Yourself feel better during this time.

If Your menstrual pain is rather mild, a few beneficial elements in Your everyday life can bring noticeable relief. Especially just before and during the period, it is worth its weight in gold to have rituals and exercises that we know are really good for us.

However, there is no such thing as one piece of advice or one right tip. While more rest is often advised, others experience sport as beneficial. So what helps You against menstrual pain can be very individual. That's the exciting thing: It's time to discover Your cycle and create Your own personal retreat. Take this time and consciously feel what is good for You.

Menstrual pain during periods can be very distressing. That's why it's important to take care of Your body and give Yourself the rest and relaxation You need. This is where the Wohlsam Mondzeit Balm comes into play! With the natural formula, the soothing natural balm supports You holistically and is guaranteed not to let You down during Your menstrual period.

Each application can relax You physically and mentally in equal measure and thus bring body and mind more into harmony. Because sometimes a few small feel-good moments are enough to make You feel more at home in Your body and forget about menstrual pain.

Whether that means a gentle yoga session, a meeting with dear friends or simply doing nothing is entirely up to You. The important thing is that You take the time You need to feel good during this time.