Researchers are finally trying to understand the complex causes of menstrual pain, or dysmenorrhea—and potential solutions.

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Medically reviewed by Khadeja Haye, MD Key Takeaways Endometriosis causes severe pain that can feel sharp or dull and may last throughout the month.Ovulation pain occurs about 10-14 days before your ...

Period cramps can be debilitating, but you don’t have to suffer in the discomfort of recurrent painful periods. No matter the severity of your cramps, there’s a range of over the counter and ...

Many people report experiencing abdominal or pelvic pain at the beginning of their menstrual cycle. In some cases, home remedies can help relieve menstrual cramps. During a period, the uterus ...

If you want to make an informed decision, it's helpful to understand what causes period cramps in the first place: Chemicals called prostaglandins, which are created in a person's uterine lining, ...

What happens when you experience the cramps without the actual arrival of your monthly visitor? But what happens when you experience the cramps without the actual arrival of your monthly visitor? It ...

Magnesium supplementation or increased dietary intake may help period cramps (dysmenorrhea)—painful sensations in the lower abdomen and lower back. If you want to try magnesium, knowing how much, what ...

Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain with no underlying medical cause. Secondary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain that results from structural abnormalities or medical conditions of the reproductive ...

Postpartum cramps, often called afterpains, are common and usually not dangerous. Breastfeeding can increase cramping due to hormone release. Seek medical help if the cramping is severe or accompanied ...

Menstrual pain isn't fun for anyone — point blank and period. While cramps can feel like dull aches to some people, for others, they can be experienced as downright debilitating contractions. And ...

For that time of the month when menstrual pains feel out of control, heating pads provide almost instant relief, so long as you use one that offers the basic features needed to make you feel ...