Definition:
Pelvic pain or cramping that occurs during menstruation. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to pelvic pain and cramping that is caused by menstruation alone. It is common in teenagers who have just started menstruating, and usually gets better with age or after childbirth. (Learn more about the female reproductive system here.)
Secondary dysmenorrhea is pelvic pain and cramping that is caused by a specific disorder, something besides normal menstruation. Endometriosis, PID, ovarian cysts, fibroids, and pelvic adhesions may cause secondary dysmenorrhea.
Also Known As: menstrual cramps
