What symptoms are characteristic of primary dysmenorrhea?

Patient's question:

Slightly bloated and painful above the stomach, it's been going on for over a year.

Doctor's answer:

Hello, primary dysmenorrhea often occurs in women with soft menstruation, so they generally have no symptoms or only mild discomfort in the first 1 to 2 years after menarche. Severe spasmodic pain is more common in young women 1 to 2 years after menarche. If regular dysmenorrhea appears at the beginning or spasmodic pain occurs after the age of 25, other abnormal conditions should be considered. Primary dysmenorrhea usually begins at the onset of menstruation or a few hours before vaginal bleeding, often spasmodic cramping, lasting 1/2 to 2 hours. After the severe abdominal pain episode, it transitions to moderate intermittent pain, lasting about 12 to 24 hours. The pain gradually subsides after the menstrual flow becomes smooth, though some may need to bed rest for 2 to 3 days. The pain is primarily located in the lower abdomen, and in severe cases, it can radiate to the lumbar-sacral region or the inner front of the thighs. About 50% or more of patients experience gastrointestinal and cardiovascular symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and fatigue. In rare cases, fainting and collapse may occur.

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