Management of Dysmenorrhea

Pharmacologic Treatment

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends using a loading dose strategy, starting with 600-800 mg ibuprofen at the first sign of pain, then continuing with 400 mg every 4-6 hours, to optimize NSAID effectiveness in adolescents with primary dysmenorrhea 1
• Topical heat application to the abdomen may reduce cramping pain, and acupressure at specific points (LI4 and SP6) has shown effectiveness for dysmenorrhea relief 1

Non-Pharmacologic Adjuncts

• Exercise and nutritional supplementation may provide additional benefit, although the evidence is not strong 1
• Note: There is limited information available in the article regarding non-pharmacologic adjuncts with associated citations.

Magnesium Glycinate for Dysmenorrhea

Diagnosis and Treatment

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends referring for pelvic examination and ultrasonography if there is abnormal uterine bleeding, vaginal discharge, or failure to respond to first-line treatments 2
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests referring for pelvic examination and ultrasonography if there is progressive worsening of pain, which may indicate secondary dysmenorrhea 2

Treatment Approach

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends starting with NSAIDs as first-line therapy for dysmenorrhea, taken during menses for 5-7 days 2