It is estimated that up to 90% of women experience pain with onset of menstrual periods (menarche). It is called primary dysmenorrhea and by itself it does not mean any specific disease. With time and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID’s) medications or oral contraceptives as well as healthy lifestyle, menstrual period pain in most of the patients improves. If this pain continues for 12 months after menarche, then it is called secondary dysmenorrhea. This ongoing pain with increases the chance of a specific condition causing pain. It is estimated that approximately 70% of patients with secondary dysmenorrhea have endometriosis. Diagnosis of endometriosis can only be done by the surgical procedure (laparoscopy, robotic procedure) and it cannot be reached by any other test. Physician may have a high suspicion of endometriosis but unless it is surgically proven, it is only a suspicion. It is especially important that this surgery is done by a provider who is familiar with diagnosis, treatment endometriosis and minimally invasive surgery.
If you or someone you know is experiencing pain which started at first menstrual period, please call our office at 480-599-9682 or email [email protected] for more information about available treatments.