J Korean Med Assoc.  2020 Mar;63(3):171-177. 10.5124/jkma.2020.63.3.171.

A comprehensive review and the pharmacologic management of primary dysmenorrhea

• Lee D
• Kim SK

• KMID: 2471865
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2020.63.3.171

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea is the most common gynecologic condition in women during the reproductive period. Severe dysmenorrhea pain affects their social activities, sleep, and quality of life. Nevertheless, the proportion of women with dysmenorrhea do not receive adequate medical counseling or pharmacological treatments. Primary dysmenorrhea is diagnosed clinically, and the secondary causes that can cause pelvic pain should be identified. The treatment of choice for primary dysmenorrhea is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In order to maximize the therapeutic effect, it is necessary to ensure that the appropriate medication is administered in a proper way. NSAIDs can cause adverse effects, including gastrointestinal disorders. If side effects occur or are anticipated with NSAIDs, the use of hormonal contraceptives may be recommended when contraception is considered. In addition to these pharmacological treatments, heat, dietary, and behavioral therapies have been tried and reported to have some effects. However, further research is required for robust conclusions.

Keyword

Dysmenorrhea; Menstruation; Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents; Contraceptive agents

MeSH Terms

Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Contraception
Contraceptive Agents
Counseling
Dysmenorrhea*
Female
Hot Temperature
Humans
Menstruation
Pelvic Pain
Quality of Life
Reproduction
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Contraceptive Agents

Figure

• 

  Figure 1. Metabolic pathways of uterine contraction in dysmenorrhea. LT, leukotriene; PGG2, prostaglandin G2; PGH2, prostaglandin H2; PGF2α, prostaglandin F2α; PGE2, prostaglandin E2.

• 

  Figure 2. Treatment options for dysmenorrhea. NSAIDs, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs.

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