Question

Which of the following are examples of differences between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea? (Select all that apply.)

A. The pain associated with primary radiates to the back and thighs.
B. With primary, the pain originates at the beginning of menses.
C. With secondary, the pain can occur also during ovulation.
D. With primary, the patient often complains of abdominal bloating.
E. With primary, the patient often presents with systemic symptoms such as dizziness and headache.

Answer 1

A. The pain associated with primary radiates to the back and thighs.

B. With primary, the pain originates at the beginning of menses.

E. With primary, the patient often presents with systemic symptoms such as dizziness and headache.

Primary dysmenorrhea is characterized by painful menstrual cramps that typically start at the onset of menses and often radiate to the back and thighs. These cramps are caused by the contraction of the uterus as it sheds its lining. The patient often complains of abdominal bloating and may present with systemic symptoms such as dizziness and headache.

Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease or fibroids. The pain can occur also during ovulation and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as heavy bleeding or abnormal discharge.