Dysmenorrhea in the adolescent

Alternative names:

adolescent dysmenorrhea; menstrual pain; painful periods; periods - painful

Symptoms:

• lower abdominal crampy pain that occurs before the beginning of the menstrual period and lasting 1 or 2 days into the period
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• constipation

Signs and tests:

A history and physical examination by the health care provider will differentiate between functional dysmenorrhea and those rare cases associated with a medical condition. Younger adolescents who have not become sexually active usually will not require a pelvic examination.