What is dysmenorrhea?

• A. Absence of menstrual periods
• B. Painful menstruation
• C. Heavy menstrual bleeding
• D. Irregular cycles

Answer: (B)

Painful menstruation is dysmenorrhea, the experience of cramps and discomfort during the menstrual period. The pain comes from uterine contractions driven by prostaglandins, and it often begins with or just before bleeding and tends to ease after the first day or two. There are two forms: primary, where cramps occur without any underlying pelvic disease, and secondary, where cramps are due to another condition such as endometriosis or fibroids. The other options describe different menstrual issues—absence of periods, heavy bleeding, or irregular cycles—rather than the pain associated with the menstrual phase.