Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea is recurrent cramping and lower abdominal pain associated with menses. Up to 50% to 90% of reproductive-aged women meet the criteria for dysmenorrhea in their lifetime, and approximately one-half miss work or school at least once due to symptoms. Compared with placebo, use of combined oral contraceptives reduces pain and the number of days of missed school or work associated with primary dysmenorrhea. However, oral contraceptives may increase the risk of any adverse events compared with placebo. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends the use of oral contraceptives or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea; there is insufficient evidence to determine which treatment is more effective for pain relief.
