What causes menstrual cramps in girls?
Jan 29, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Dysmenorrhea in women is generally divided into primary and secondary types, caused by factors such as physiological inheritance, endocrine disorders, and a narrow cervical os. For patients with primary dysmenorrhea, applying a hot water bag for heat therapy can help relieve spasms of the uterine smooth muscle and promote pelvic blood circulation, thereby reducing pain. Patients with secondary dysmenorrhea should seek medical attention at a hospital to receive treatment targeting the underlying condition.
Menstrual pain in girls is generally divided into primary and secondary dysmenorrhea, caused by factors such as physiological inheritance, endocrine disorders, and a narrow cervical opening.
1. Physiological factors
Poor uterine development or abnormal uterine position can obstruct the smooth flow of menstrual blood. Additionally, genetic factors play a role—daughters of mothers who experience dysmenorrhea are more likely to suffer from it as well.
2. Endocrine disorders
Dysmenorrhea is mainly caused by prostaglandins secreted by the endometrium. While these hormones help contract the uterine muscles and blood vessels to facilitate menstrual discharge, excessive secretion due to endocrine imbalance can lead to intense spasmodic contractions of the uterine muscle fibers, resulting in pain.
3. Narrow cervical opening
During menstruation, if the endometrium sheds in large pieces rather than fragments, it becomes difficult to expel. A narrow cervical opening may also cause excessive uterine flexion, hindering the smooth outflow of menstrual blood. This can trigger strong or spasmodic uterine contractions, leading to pain.
In addition, secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. For patients with primary dysmenorrhea, applying a hot water bottle to the abdomen can help relieve smooth muscle spasms in the uterus and improve pelvic blood circulation, thereby reducing pain. Patients with secondary dysmenorrhea should seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition.
