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A percentage of girls and women experience pain associated with the menstrual cycle, and these symptoms may begin at puberty or at any time during a woman’s life.
There are two types of menstrual pain:
Primary pain:
It usually affects girls after puberty, begins shortly before the period, reaches its peak with the start of menstruation, and then begins to subside after blood flow starts. This pain usually responds to mild painkillers and does not cause concern.
Secondary pain:
It is usually more severe, continues during the period, becomes more intense, and may require a visit to the emergency department or a doctor.
If severe menstrual pain recurs and leads to absence from school or work, or does not respond to regular painkillers, a gynecologist must be consulted.
