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Home > Health > What is the Difference Between Dysmenorrhea and Amenorrhea?

Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Dysmenorrhea and Amenorrhea?

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Dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea are two different menstrual disorders that can affect women. Here are the main differences between the two:

Dysmenorrhea:

  • Refers to painful menstruation or menstrual cramps that usually occur around the time of the period.
  • The pain is typically crampy and felt in the uterus, abdomen, and pelvis. It may be associated with headache, nausea, vomiting, and back or leg pain.
  • Can be primary (occurring without any pelvic pathology) or secondary (resulting from pelvic pathology).
  • Primary dysmenorrhea often improves over time and after childbirth.
  • Treatment options may include over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.

Amenorrhea:

  • Refers to the absence of menstruation.
  • Can be primary (absence of menses by age 15 in the presence of normal sexual development) or secondary (cessation of menses for 3 months).
  • The management of amenorrhea depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include addressing the underlying illness, discontinuing the offending agent in drug-induced amenorrhea, or adjusting exercise or weight in cases of amenorrhea caused by excessive exercise or weight loss.
  • Amenorrhea is generally not harmful but can cause complications if not addressed.

In summary, dysmenorrhea is characterized by painful menstrual cramps, while amenorrhea is characterized by the absence of menstruation. Both conditions can have different causes and treatment options.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Dysmenorrhea and Amenorrhea?
  • Comparative Table: Dysmenorrhea vs Amenorrhea

    • Comparative Table: Dysmenorrhea vs Amenorrhea

    Here is a table outlining the differences between dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea:

    Feature Dysmenorrhea Amenorrhea
    Definition Dysmenorrhea is a condition that results in painful menstruation. Amenorrhea is a condition that results in the absence of menstruation.
    Types Primary dysmenorrhea occurs without any pelvic pathology and usually starts after menarche once ovulatory cycles are established. Secondary dysmenorrhea is the result of pelvic pathology and often starts after age 20, although it may occur earlier. Amenorrhea can be primary, where periods never start, or secondary, where periods start and then stop.
    Causes Dysmenorrhea is caused by prostaglandins, which are released by endometrial cells as menstruation begins and stimulate myometrial contractions and ischemia. Secondary dysmenorrhea is associated with an identifiable disease, such as endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis, or endometrial polyps. Amenorrhea can result from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, extreme exercise, or certain medical conditions.
    Symptoms Painful periods or menstrual cramps, usually occurring in the pelvis or lower abdomen, and may be associated with headache, nausea, vomiting, and back or leg pain. Absence of menstruation, which can lead to complications if not addressed.
    Treatment Treatment for dysmenorrhea may include over-the-counter pain relievers, heating pads, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a balanced diet. Treatment for amenorrhea depends on the underlying cause and may involve addressing any hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors contributing to the absence of menstruation.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.