dysmenorrhoea
Pronunciation: dis-men-uh-REE-uh
Painful menstrual periods that may be primary (functional) or secondary (due to underlying pathology).
Full Definition
Dysmenorrhoea refers to painful menstruation that interferes with daily activities. Primary dysmenorrhoea occurs without identifiable pelvic pathology and typically begins in adolescence, caused by prostaglandin-mediated uterine contractions. Secondary dysmenorrhoea develops later in life due to conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or fibroids. The pain is typically crampy, located in the lower abdomen and back, and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment approaches differ based on the underlying cause.
Usage
Usage note: British spelling with 'oe'; distinguish between primary and secondary types in documentation.
In Context
- "The patient's severe dysmenorrhoea significantly improved following treatment with combined oral contraceptives." — Follow-up consultation note
- "Secondary dysmenorrhoea was suspected given the patient's age at onset and associated heavy bleeding." — Gynecological assessment