SOGC CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE

SOGC CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE

No 169, December 2005

Primary Dysmenorrhea Consensus Guideline

CO-CHAIRS
Guylaine Lefebvre, MD, FRCSC, Ottawa ON
Odette Pinsonneault, MD, FRCSC, Sherbrooke QC
CO-AUTHORS
Viola Antao, MD, CCFP, MHSc, Toronto ON
Amanda Black, MD, FRCSC, Ottawa ON
Margaret Burnett, MD, MA, CCFP, FRCSC, Winnipeg MB

Evidence: MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were searched for

articles in English and French on subjects related to primary
dysmenorrhea, menstrual pain and pelvic pain from January 1990
to December 2004 in order to prepare a Canadian consensus
guideline on the management of primary dysmenorrhea.
Values: The quality of evidence is rated using the criteria described in
the Report of the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health
Examination. Recommendations for practice are ranked according
to this method.

Robert Lea, MD, FRCSC, Halifax NS

Sponsors: The development of this consensus guideline was

supported by unrestricted educational grants from Pfizer Canada
Inc., Janssen-Ortho, Wyeth, Organon Canada Ltd., and Berlex
Canada Inc.

Magali Robert, MD, FRCSC, Calgary AB

Recommendations

Kymm Feldman, MD, CCFP, MHSc, Toronto ON

Section 3: Diagnosis / Differential Diagnosis / Investigations

Abstract
Methods: Members of this consensus group were selected based on
individual expertise to represent a range of practical and academic
experience both in terms of location in Canada and type of
practice, as well as subspecialty expertise along with general
gynaecology backgrounds. The consensus group reviewed all
available evidence through the English and French medical
literature and available data from a survey of Canadian women.
Recommendations were established as consensus statements.
The final document was reviewed and approved by the Executive
and Council of the SOGC.
Results: This document provides a summary of up-to-date evidence
regarding the diagnosis, investigations, and medical and surgical
management of dysmenorrhea. The resulting recommendations
may be adapted by individual health care workers when serving
women who suffer from this condition.
Conclusions: Dysmenorrhea is an extremely common and
sometimes debilitating condition for women of reproductive age.
A multidisciplinary approach involving a combination of lifestyle,
medications, and allied health services should be used to limit the
impact of this condition on activities of daily living. In some
circumstances, surgery is required to offer the desired relief.
Outcomes: This guideline discusses the various options in managing
dysmenorrhea. Patient information materials may be derived from
these guidelines in order to educate women in terms of their
options and possible risks and benefits of various treatment
strategies. Women who find an acceptable management strategy
for this condition may benefit from an improved quality of life.

1. In adolescents experiencing dysmenorrhea in the first 6 months

from the start of menarche, and when an anovulatory patient
complains of dysmenorrhea, the diagnosis of obstructing
malformation of the genital tract should be considered. (III-A)
2. The diagnosis of secondary dysmenorrhea should be considered
when symptoms appear after many years of painless menses.
(III-A)
3. In view of the high prevalence of dysmenorrhea, and evidence that
many women do not seek medical attention for this problem, health
care providers should include specific questions regarding
menstrual pain when obtaining a woman's medical history. (III-B)
4. In an adolescent who has never been sexually active and has a
typical history of mild to moderate dysmenorrhea, a pelvic
examination is not necessary. (III-D)
5. A pelvic examination is indicated in all patients not responding to
conventional therapy of dysmenorrhea or when an organic
pathology is suspected. (III-B)
Section 4: Non-medicinal Therapeutic Options
1. Unlike low-frequency TENS, high-frequency TENS provides more
effective dysmenorrhea pain relief compared with placebo.
High-frequency TENS may be considered as a supplementary
treatment in women unable to tolerate medication. (II-B)
2. Women who inquire about alternatives to relieve dysmenorrhea,
may be instructed that, at the present time, there is limited
evidence that acupuncture may be of benefit (II-B), there is no
evidence to support spinal manipulation as an effective treatment
(II-D), and there is limited evidence to support topical heat therapy (II-B).
Section 5: Medicinal Therapeutic Options

Key Words: Primary dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, menstrual pain,

crampy suprapubic pain, endometriosis, menorrhagia, menstrual
cramps, length of cycles, regularity of cycles, duration of menses,
pelvic examination, management of dysmenorrhea

1. Women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea should be offered

NSAIDs as a first-line treatment for the relief of pain and improved
daily activity unless they have a contraindication to the use of
NSAIDs. (I-A)

These guidelines reflect emerging clinical and scientific advances as of the date issued and are subject to change. The information
should not be construed as dictating an exclusive course of treatment or procedure to be followed. Local institutions can dictate
amendments to these opinions. They should be well documented if modified at the local level. None of these contents may be
reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the SOGC.

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Table 1. Criteria for quality of evidence assessment and classification of recommendations

Level of evidence*

Classification of recommendations

I:

A. There is good evidence to support the recommendation for

use of a diagnostic test, treatment, or intervention.

Evidence obtained from at least one properly designed

randomized controlled trial.

II-1: Evidence from well-designed controlled trials without

randomization.

B. There is fair evidence to support the recommendation for

use of a diagnostic test, treatment, or intervention.

II-2: Evidence from well-designed cohort (prospective or

retrospective) or case-control studies, preferably from
more than one centre or research group.

C. There is insufficient evidence to support the recommendation for use of a diagnostic test, treatment, or intervention.

II-3: Evidence from comparisons between times or places with

or without the intervention. Dramatic results from
uncontrolled experiments (such as the results of treatment
with penicillin in the 1940s) could also be included in this
category.

D. There is fair evidence not to support the recommendation

for a diagnostic test, treatment, or intervention.
E. There is good evidence not to support the recommendation
for use of a diagnostic test, treatment, or intervention.

III: Opinions of respected authorities, based on clinical

experience, descriptive studies, or reports of expert
committees.
*The quality of evidence reported in these guidelines has been adapted from the Evaluation of Evidence criteria described in the Canadian Task Force
on the Periodic Health Exam.126
Recommendations included in these guidelines have been adapted from the Classification of Recommendations criteria described in the Canadian
Task Force on the Periodic Health Exam.126

2. Oral contraceptives may be recommended for the treatment of

primary dysmenorrhea. The added contraceptive advantage may
make oral contraceptives a first-line therapy for some women. (1-A)
3. Consideration may be given to continuous use of oral contraceptive
pills for withdrawal bleeding and the associated dysmenorrhea. (1-A)
4. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and levonorgestrel
intrauterine system have been shown to be effective in the
treatment of dysmenorrhea and therefore can be considered as
treatment options in the management of primary dysmenorrhea. (II-B)
Section 6: Surgical Options
1. Surgery constitutes the final diagnostic and therapeutic option in
the management of dysmenorrhea. Laparoscopy should be
considered in women who have persistent dysmenorrhea despite
medical therapy of NSAIDs and/or oral contraceptives. (III-C)
2. Hysterectomy may be considered for the management of
dysmenorrhea when medical alternatives have been refused or
failed and fertility is no longer possible or desired. (II-B)
3. As there is limited evidence for use of presacral neurectomy in the
management of primary dysmenorrhea, the risks must be carefully
weighed against the expected benefits. (III-C)
4. Laparoscopic uterosacral ligament resection has not been shown to
reduce dysmenorrhea and therefore should not be advocated as a
mainstream treatment option. (III-C)

Section 7: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

1. The following CAM has limited support and may be considered in
the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, though further study is
required:

Vitamin B1 (I-B)
2. The following CAMs showed an initial positive response for the
treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and merit further study:

Vitamin E (I-C)
Fish oil / Vitamin B12 combination (I-C)
Magnesium (II-1 C)
Vitamin B6; (II-1 C)
Toki-shakuyaku-san (II-1 C)
Fish oil (II-3 C)

Neptune krill oil (II-3 C)

3. The following CAMs have not been shown to have any benefit in
the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and may need further
study:

Vitamin B6 / Magnesium combination (II-1)

Vitamin E (daily) in addition to Ibuprofen (during menses) (II-3)

Fennel (II-3)
J Obstet Gynaecol Can 2005;27(12):11171130

SECTION 1: DEFINITION AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Dysmenorrhea is derived from a Greek root translating

to difficult menstrual flow. Dysmenorrhea can be divided
into 2 broad categories of primary and secondary. Primary
dysmenorrhea is defined as recurrent, crampy pain occurring with menses in the absence of identifiable pelvic
pathology. Secondary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain
associated with underlying pelvic pathology such as
endometriosis. Primary dysmenorrhea usually begins in

1118 l DECEMBER JOGC DCEMBRE 2005

adolescence after the establishment of ovulatory cycles.1,2

Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by myometrial activity
resulting in uterine ischemia causing pain.1 This myometrial
activity is modulated and augmented by prostaglandin
synthesis (Figure 1). Uterine contractions can last many
minutes and may produce uterine pressures greater than
60 mm Hg. Multiple other factors may play a role in the
perception and the severity of the pain.

Primary Dysmenorrhea Consensus Guideline

Figure 1. Pathophysiology of primary dysmenorrhea

Estrogen
progesterone

PGF2a
PGE2

Sensitization of afferent nerves

PAIN

Vasopressin

Other
factors

Myometrial contraction
Altered blood flow
( constriction of arterioles)

Uterine ischemia

Unknown factors

Cervical obstruction

SECTION 2: RISK FACTORS

Dysmenorrhea is the most common gynaecological symptom reported by women. Ninety percent of women presenting for primary care suffer from some menstrual pain.3
Population surveys suggest that, although prevalence rates
vary considerably by geographical location, complaints of
dysmenorrhea are widespread in diverse populations.410
Furthermore, one third to one half of these women report
moderate or severe symptoms. Symptoms are frequently
associated with time lost from school, work, or other activities.11 In spite of the frequency and severity of
dysmenorrhea, most women do not seek medical treatment
for this condition.4,12
Age is a determinant of menstrual pain12 with symptoms
being more pronounced in adolescents than in older
women.9,12,13 Associated factors for more severe episodes
of dysmenorrhea may include early menarche,6,14,15 heavy

and increased duration of menstrual flow14,15 and family history.15 There is some evidence that parous women have less
severe dysmenorrhea.6,13,14,16
The evidence that smoking worsens primary menstrual pain
is convincing.12,13,1517 One recent prospective study found
that dysmenorrhea is also associated with increased exposure to environmental tobacco smoke.18
There is some suggestion that more frequent life changes,
fewer social supports, and stressful close relationships may
be associated with increased dysmenorrhea.19 There may be
an increased prevalence of dysmenorrhea in lower
socioeconomic groups.3
There is controversy about the association of obesity,6,14,17
physical activity,14,17 and alcohol6,14,16,17 with primary
dysmenorrhea.

SECTION 3: DIAGNOSIS / DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS / INVESTIGATIONS

DIAGNOSIS OF PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA

Typically, primary dysmenorrhea is characterized by a

crampy suprapubic pain that begins somewhere between
several hours before and a few hours after the onset of the
menstrual bleeding. Symptoms peak with maximum blood
flow20 and usually last less than one day, but the pain may
persist up to 2 to 3 days. Symptoms are more or less reproducible from one menstrual period to the other.21 The pain
is characteristically colicky and located in the midline of the

lower abdomen but may also be described as dull and may

extend to both lower quadrants, the lumbar area, and the
thighs. Frequently associated symptoms include diarrhea,
nausea and vomiting, fatigue, light-headedness, headache,
dizziness and, rarely, syncope and fever.20,2225 These associated symptoms have been attributed to prostaglandin
release.1,2
Onset of dysmenorrhea soon after menarche or in a patient
who is clearly anovulatory should alert the physician to the
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SOGC CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE

possibility of an obstructing malformation of the genital

tract. Occasionally adolescents may experience menstrual
pain with their first periods without any demonstrable
underlying cause, especially when the bleeding is heavy and
accompanied by clots.22 Menstrual pain appearing after
several years of painless periods is suggestive of secondary
dysmenorrhea.

associated symptoms, as well as the chronology of the onset

of pain in relation to onset of menstrual bleeding. The
severity and duration of symptoms, the progression over
time, and the degree of the patients disability should be
established. Significant gastrointestinal or urinary symptoms or the presence of pelvic pain not related to the menstrual cycle may suggest other causes of pelvic pain.

Differential diagnosis

In obtaining a thorough history, it is important to inquire

about sexual activity, dyspareunia, and contraception. Many
adolescents use dysmenorrhea as a pretext to obtain
contraception.24 Past obstetric and gynaecologic history, in
particular, sexually transmitted infections, pelvic infection,
infertility, and pelvic surgery, as well as other medical problems should be recorded. A family history of endometriosis
should also be sought.

The differential diagnosis of primary dysmenorrhea is summarized in Table 2. Endometriosis is certainly one of the
most frequent causes of secondary dysmenorrhea and is a
disease that can also affect younger patients. In adolescent
girls undergoing laparoscopy for chronic pelvic pain not
responding to NSAIDs and oral contraceptives,
endometriosis is found with a prevalence of approximately
70%.26,27 In parous women, adenomyosis should be considered as a possible diagnosis, especially in the presence of
menorrhagia and of a uniformly enlarged uterus.
Pedunculated submucosal leiomyomas and endometrial
polyps may cause obstruction of the cervical canal and trigger painful menstrual cramps. In patients with a history of
surgical procedures of the cervix such as a cerclage, a
cryotherapy, or a conization, cervical stenosis is a possibility. When dysmenorrhea occurs suddenly in patients who
normally have no or mild menstrual pain, pelvic inflammatory disease or pregnancy complications should be ruled
out. Congenital obstructing malformations of the mllerian
ducts should be considered when dysmenorrhea appears
before the establishment of ovulatory menstrual cycles.21,24
Other causes of chronic pelvic pain (chronic pelvic inflammatory disease, pelvic adhesions, bowel inflammatory diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis) may be
symptomatic during menses.28
CLINICAL APPROACH
History

Many women consider menstrual pain, even severe and

incapacitating, as inevitable. Women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea may not seek medical assistance and
frequently do not make use of the prescription therapies
that are available.12,22
When a health care provider identifies menstrual pain on
history, an attempt should then be made to differentiate
between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. The history
should focus on menstrual history, including age at menarche, length and regularity of cycles, dates of last two
menses, and duration and amount of the bleeding. The
length of time elapsed between menarche and the beginning
of dysmenorrhea should be established. The pain should be
clearly defined in terms of type, location, radiation, and
1120 l DECEMBER JOGC DCEMBRE 2005

The patient should also be asked about all types of therapy

tried in the past. Since many patients do not use medication
in adequate dose, it is essential to inquire about the way
every medication was utilized. Campbell and McGrath
report that in a group of high school girls aged 14 to
21 years using over-the-counter medications for menstrual
discomfort, only 31% took them at the recommended daily
dosage. Of those using a prescription drug, 13% reported
using less than the prescribed dose. In the same study, participants waited a median of 30 minutes after the onset of
dysmenorrhea before taking their medication and only 16%
of them took it prophylactically.29 Many patients who state
that oral contraceptives are ineffective did not try them for a
long enough period to obtain the maximum effectiveness in
pain relief.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION

Women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea are expected

to have a normal pelvic examination. However, a normal
pelvic examination does not systematically rule out the
presence of a pelvic pathology.
An abdominal examination should be done in every patient
to rule out palpable pathology. In an adolescent who has
never been sexually active and presents with a typical history of mild to moderate primary dysmenorrhea, pelvic
examination is not necessary.21,2224 However, some authors
recommend inspecting the external genitalia of all patients
to exclude an abnormality of the hymen.23 On the other
hand, when history is suggestive of organic disease or congenital malformation of the genital tract, or when the
patient does not respond to the conventional therapy of primary dysmenorrhea, a complete pelvic examination is
indicated.

Primary Dysmenorrhea Consensus Guideline

Table 2. Differential diagnosis of dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea
Secondary dysmenorrhea
Endometriosis
Adenomyosis
Uterine myomas
Endometrial polyps
Cervical stenosis
Obstructive malformations of the genital tract
Other causes of pain
Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease
Pelvic adhesions
Irritable bowel syndrome
Inflammatory bowel disease
Interstitial cystitis
Sudden onset of dysmenorrhea
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Unrecognized ectopic pregnancy or spontaneous abortion

INVESTIGATIONS

decisions, this expensive test has limited clinical

usefulness.28,30
Hysteroscopy and saline sonohysterography are helpful in
the diagnosis of endometrial polyps and submucosal
leiomyomas.30,31
Laparoscopy is the only procedure that will establish a definite diagnosis of endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or pelvic adhesions. It should be performed when
these pathologies are strongly suspected or when first-line
therapy has failed. In adolescent girls who do not respond
to therapy, a diagnostic laparoscopy should not be postponed unduly because the prognosis of endometriosis may
be improved by an early diagnosis.32 Gynaecologists are
usually experienced with the laparoscopic diagnosis of
endometriosis in adult women. In adolescents, however,
the appearance of endometriotic implants may have variable morphology. In these younger patients, red flame,
white, and clear lesions are more frequently seen than the
classical blue-black and powder burn lesions found in
adults.33 Laufer has proposed that using fluid as a distension
medium during laparoscopy facilitates the identification of
clear lesions that can be easily missed when doing the conventional technique of laparoscopy.34 This has not been
advocated traditionally. Biopsies of visible lesions, especially when atypical, are recommended in order to have
histological confirmation of the diagnosis.
Recommendations

Laboratory testing or imaging is not required to make a

diagnosis of primary dysmenorrhea. Complementary investigations may be ordered when secondary dysmenorrhea is
suspected.
There is no evidence for the routine use of ultrasound in the
evaluation of primary dysmenorrhea. For women who suffer from dysmenorrhea refractory to first-line therapy, or in
women who have a clinical abnormality on pelvic examination, ultrasound may identify causes of secondary dysmenorrhea. In adolescents in whom a pelvic examination is
impossible or unsatisfactory, ultrasound may uncover a
pelvic mass or an obstructing mllerian malformation.
Ultrasonography cannot detect subtle signs of organic diseases such as uterosacral ligament tenderness or nodules
and cervical motion tenderness. Ultrasound will not replace
a thorough bimanual examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging has been shown to be an interesting diagnostic tool for adenomyosis but since a precise
diagnosis of this pathology is rarely essential to therapeutic

1. In adolescents experiencing dysmenorrhea in the first six

months from the start of menarche, and when an
anovulatory patient complains of dysmenorrhea, the
diagnosis of obstructing malformation of the genital
tract should be considered. (III-A)
2. The diagnosis of secondary dysmenorrhea should be
considered when symptoms appear after many years of
painless menses. (III-A)
3. In view of the high prevalence of dysmenorrhea, and evidence that many women do not seek medical attention
for this problem, health care providers should include
specific questions regarding menstrual pain when
obtaining a womans medical history. (III-B)
4. In an adolescent who has never been sexually active and
has a typical history of mild to moderate dysmenorrhea, a
pelvic examination is not necessary. (III-D)
5. A pelvic examination is indicated in all patients not
responding to conventional therapy of dysmenorrhea or
when an organic pathology is suspected. (III-B)

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SECTION 4: NON-MEDICINAL THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS

Non-medicinal approaches such as exercise, heat, behavioural interventions, and dietary/herbal supplements are
commonly utilized by women in an effort to relieve
dysmenorrhea.35 The data on the effectiveness of such
interventions remain inconclusive and controversial.
EXERCISE

In a review of 4 randomized controlled trials and 2 observational studies, exercise was associated with a reduction in
dysmenorrhea symptoms.36 A more recent study found
that vigorous exercisers (more than 3 times per week)
reported less physical symptoms during menstruation in
comparison with sedentary counterparts.37 In contrast,
results from a retrospective questionnaire completed by a
cohort of nurses indicated that although exercise was associated with an improvement in mood and stress, it was also
associated with a 30% increase in dysmenorrhea symptom
severity.36,38 The majority of these early studies had numerous methodological flaws (non-blinded, confounding factors, lack of objective measurements for pain or level of
activity), making it inappropriate to draw definitive conclusions regarding the use of exercise as a supplementary treatment for dysmenorrhea. A Cochrane review on exercise
and primary dysmenorrhea is currently being compiled and
recommendations are expected in 2005.39
TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE
STIMULATION (TENS) / ACUPUNCTURE

TENS involves use of electrodes to stimulate the skin at

various frequencies and intensities in an attempt to diminish
pain perception. TENS may be divided into high and low
frequency. Low-frequency TENS involves pulses delivered
between 1 and 4 Hz and high-frequency TENS consists of
pulses delivered between 50 and 120 Hz.40,41 Acupuncture
also involves stimulating nerve fibre receptors in an attempt
to block pain impulses. A Cochrane review examined 9 randomized controlled trials on the use of TENS or acupuncture for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.42 Overall
data indicated that high-frequency TENS provides more
effective pain relief when compared with placebo
TENS.40,41,43 Adverse outcomes associated with highfrequency TENS including muscle tightness, headaches,
nausea, redness or burning of skin were reported in over
10% of participants.40 Two trials compared TENS with
medical treatment. Ibuprofen was found to be significantly
better in relieving pain in comparison than high-frequency
TENS.40 In contrast, no difference in pain relief scores was
demonstrated between naproxen and high-frequency
1122 l DECEMBER JOGC DCEMBRE 2005

TENS.41,44 Overall results indicate no significant differences between low-frequency TENS and placebo TENS or
placebo pill for relief of dysmenorrhea.41,43,4547
Significantly greater pain relief in the acupuncture group
compared with the sham acupuncture group was
reported.48 Due to the limited evidence (only 1 randomized
controlled trial), recommendations regarding acupuncture
as a treatment for dysmenorrhea must be guarded.
SPINAL MANIPULATION

A Cochrane review included 5 trials examining spinal

manipulation for the treatment of dysmenorrhea. Overall
results provided no evidence that spinal manipulation
relieves dysmenorrhea.49 No significant differences in
adverse effects were reported by the spinal manipulation
group in comparison to the sham treatment group.50
BEHAVIOURAL INTERVENTIONS

Behavioural interventions used in the treatment of

dysmenorrhea include procedures such as biofeedback,
desensitization, Lamaze exercise, hypnotherapy, and relaxation training.51 Case studies suggest that behavioural interventions may be effective in treating dysmenorrhea.51
Because of the limited studies no recommendation can be
formulated at this time. A Cochrane protocol examining
behavioural interventions for primary and secondary
dysmenorrhea was published in 2000, but has since been
withdrawn from publication.52
TOPICAL HEAT

A randomized placebo-controlled trial compared the effectiveness of topically applied heat for dysmenorrhea with the
use of oral ibuprofen and placebo treatments. Results
indicate that the 3 treatment groups heated patch plus
ibuprofen, heated patch plus placebo pill, and unheated
patch plus ibuprofen demonstrated significantly greater
pain relief than the unheated patch plus placebo pill control
(P < 0.001). Low-level topical heat therapy was as effective
as ibuprofen for the treatment of dysmenorrhea. Furthermore, there was faster improvement in pain relief when heat
was applied with ibuprofen compared with the ibuprofen
and unheated patch control.53

Primary Dysmenorrhea Consensus Guideline

Recommendations
1. Unlike low-frequency TENS, high-frequency TENS
provides more effective dysmenorrhea pain relief than
placebo. High-frequency TENS may be considered as a
supplementary treatment in women unable to tolerate
medication. (II-B)

2. Women who inquire about alternatives to relieve

dysmenorrhea may be instructed that, at the present
time, there is limited evidence that acupuncture may be
of benefit (II-B), there is no evidence to support spinal
manipulation as an effective treatment (II-D), and there
is limited evidence to support topical heat therapy. (II-B)

SECTION 5: MEDICINAL THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS

5.1 NON-HORMONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT

Many drugs are commercially available and approved for

the use in treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.

frequency of OTC medication use among young women

aged 16 to 21 years than among girls aged 12 to 14 years.58
NSAIDs

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

Non-selective NSAIDs

OTC medications available to treat dysmenorrhea in

Canada include acetaminophen (Tylenol), acetaminophen
plus pamabrom (Midol), acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin), and
ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

Research has identified the over-production of uterine

prostaglandins (higher levels of prostaglandins F2 a and E2)
as a contributing factor to primary dysmenorrhoea.
NSAIDs are analgesics which inhibit the cyclooxygenase
(COX) enzymes, thereby inhibiting the production of
prostaglandins.

Acetaminophen is an analgesic/antipyretic drug, not a

peripheral prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, and is a weak
cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor in the presence of high
peroxide concentrations that are present in inflammatory
tissues. Acetaminophen produces analgesia by raising the
pain threshold. It is a safe drug when used in therapeutic
dosages with a good gastrointestinal tolerance and no effect
on hemostasis. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage
after three or more alcoholic drinks per day54 and can
cross-react with ASA to produce analgesic-induced
asthma.55 The one randomized controlled trial of
acetaminophen showed it to be no better than placebo, but
the trial was small and also failed to show aspirin to be effective.56 In many analyses of effectiveness of medications for
relief of primary dysmenorrhea, acetaminophen is used as
the control.
Acetaminophen and pamabrom are indicated to provide
temporary relief of dysmenorrhea. Pamabrom is a mild and
short-acting diuretic that relieves water retention. The available information concerning the efficacy of acetaminophen
in primary dysmenorrhea is limited and not conclusive with
respect to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs) or even placebo. The clinical evidence regarding
the association with pamabrom is even more scarce.57
Adolescents who experience less menstrual discomfort,
shorter duration of menstrual discomfort, and less severe
disability were more likely to be associated with the use of
OTC medications. More than half (56%) of the adolescents
who used OTC medications took the pills less often than
the maximum daily recommendation.29 There was a greater

A meta-analysis of 56 trials59 confirms beyond doubt that all

4 NSAIDs evaluated (naproxen, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid
and aspirin) are effective in primary dysmenorrhea. In the
systematic review, both naproxen and ibuprofen appeared
to be better than aspirin. On a risk-benefit assessment,
ibuprofen was better than naproxen because of the side
effects of naproxen. All 4 NSAIDs reduced restriction of
daily life better than placebo, but only with ibuprofen and
naproxen was this statistically significant.
In a review of 63 randomized controlled trials60 in women
with primary dysmenorrhea, NSAIDs were found significantly more effective for pain relief than placebo (OR 7.91;
95% CI 5.6511.09), although overall adverse effects were
also significantly more common (OR 1.52; 95% CI
1.092.12). When NSAIDs were compared with each other
or with acetaminophen, there was little evidence of superiority of any NSAIDs with regard to either efficacy or safety.
Women taking NSAIDs were significantly less likely to
report restriction of daily activities and absenteeism from
work or school than women taking placebo.
Effective treatment is initiated with the onset of bleeding
and/or associated symptoms and should not be necessary
for more than 2 to 3 days. Recommended maximum dosing
includes starting with an initial loading dose followed by
divided doses over 24 hours.
The adverse effects of NSAIDs can include gastrointestinal
intolerance, headaches, and drowsiness. It is important for
women taking NSAIDs to be aware of the need to take the
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Table. 3 Examples of NSAIDs

Class of NSAIDs

Medications

Acetic acid derivatives (including indole derivatives)

Diclofenac potassium (Voltaren Rapide)

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors

Celecoxib (Celebrex)

Fenamates

Mefenamic acid (Ponstan, Mefenamic)

Oxicams

Meloxicam (Mobicox)

Propionic acid derivatives

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)

Indomethacin (Indocid)
Meloxicam (Mobicox)

Naproxen (Naprosyn)
Naproxen sodium (Anaprox)
Salicylic acid derivatives

medications with food. Aspirin is not recommended for

children and adolescents with influenza or chicken pox
because of its association with the onset of Reyes
syndrome.61
COX-2 inhibitors

Prostaglandin synthesis is mediated primarily by 2 distinct

isoforms of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), which
catalyze the metabolism of arachidonate to prostaglandin
H2. Conventional NSAIDs are non-selective inhibitors of
both isoforms of COX. It has been proposed that the therapeutic efficacy of NSAIDs is primarily the result of
cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition, whereas their
well-recognized gastrointestinal toxicity and disruption of
platelet function is derived from inhibition of the
cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) activity.
In a double-blind study62 comparing meloxicam 7.5 mg and
15 mg once a day with mefenamic acid 500 mg three times a
day, both of the daily doses of meloxicam were comparable
to mefenamic acid t.i.d. in relieving dysmenorrhea symptoms, and meloxicam had a better gastrointestinal
tolerability profile.
Both rofecoxib (Vioxx) and valdecoxib (Bextra) have been
withdrawn from the market because of cardiovascular concerns (rofecoxib, valdecoxib) and potentially lifethreatening skin reactions (valdecoxib).
Transdermal glyceryl trinitrate

Transdermal glyceryl trinitrate has a relaxing effect on

myometrium.
In a study comparing glyceryl trinitrate
patch with diclofenac,63 both treatments significantly
reduced the pain intensity score by 30 minutes. However,
diclofenac continued to be effective in reducing pelvic pain
for 2 hours whereas glyceryl trinitrate did not. Headache
was significantly increased by glyceryl trinitrate. This study
indicates that glyceryl trinitrate has a reduced efficacy and
1124 l DECEMBER JOGC DCEMBRE 2005

Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin)

tolerability by comparison with diclofenac in the treatment

of primary dysmenorrhea.
When the glyceryl trinitrate patch was compared with a placebo patch, the pain intensity differences from 1 to 6 hours
were statistically significant in favour of the active treatment. The incidence of headache was 26% for the active
drug and 6.1% for placebo.64
5.2 HORMONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT
Combined oral contraceptive (COC)

As early as 1937, researchers showed that dysmenorrhea

responds favourably to inhibition of ovulation.65 Research
suggests that the COC suppresses ovulation and
endometrial tissue growth, thereby decreasing menstrual
fluid volume and prostaglandin secretion6668 with subsequent decrease in intrauterine pressure67 and uterine
cramping.69
COCs are considered an effective treatment for primary
dysmenorrhea. Observational studies support an association between COC use and decreased dysmenorrhea.12,7077
The lack of a placebo control group is a major limitation of
all of these studies. Only five double-blinded, randomized,
placebo-controlled trials have examined the effectiveness
of COCs in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. A
2003 Cochrane Collaborative Review, which included 4 of
these studies in its analysis, determined that COCs with
more than 35 mcg of ethinyl estradiol were more effective
than placebo for pain relief during menses (OR 2.01; 95%
CI 1.173.33).66 However, when data were analyzed with a
random effects model, the results were not statistically significant (OR 1.68; 95% CI 0.299.81). Treatment with
COCs compared with placebo did appear to significantly
decrease absences from work or school (OR 0.43; 95% CI
0.190.99). Only 1 randomized, double-blinded, placebocontrolled study has been conducted using a low-dose COC

Primary Dysmenorrhea Consensus Guideline

preparation. Hendrix et al. found a significant reduction in

painful menstrual cramping in users of a COC containing
20 mmg of ethinyl estradiol compared with placebo (P <
0.001).78
When given in a continuous fashion, the COC may have a
number of advantages, including a decreased incidence of
dysmenorrhea.79,80,81
Progestin regimens

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) works

primarily by suppressing ovulation.82 It also can induce
endometrial atrophy.83 One of its non-contraceptive
benefits is amenorrhea with a resultant reduction in the
incidence of dysmenorrhea. Amenorrhea rates are 55% to
60% at 12 months and 68% at 24 months.84 For this reason,
DMPA may be considered in the treatment of
dysmenorrhea.8587
The progestin only pill (POP) may decrease menstrual flow,
and up to 10% of POP users will develop amenorrhea.
Menstrual cramping may be decreased; however, no studies
have been done to date.
Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LN-IUS)

LN-IUS (Mirena) is an intrauterine device that releases

progestin locally inside the uterine cavity. Although

ovulation is not suppressed, the LN-IUS has a local effect

on the endometrium, which becomes atrophic and inactive.88 Menstrual blood loss is reduced by 74% to 97%8992
and 16% to 35% of LN-IUS users will become amenorrheic
after 1 year of use.9396 Dysmenorrhea has been shown to
improve in LN-IUS users.90,97
Recommendations
1. Women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea should be
offered NSAIDs as a first-line treatment for the relief of
pain and improved daily activity unless they have a contraindication to the use of NSAIDs. (I-A)
2. Oral contraceptives may be recommended for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. The added contraceptive advantage may make oral contraceptives a first-line
therapy for some women. (I-A)
3. Consideration may be given to continuous use of oral
contraceptives for withdrawal bleeding and associated
dysmenorrhea. (I-A)
4. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and levonorgestrel
intrauterine system have been shown to be effective in
the treatment of dysmenorrhea and therefore can be
considered as treatment options in the management of
primary dysmenorrhea. (II-B)

SECTION 6: SURGICAL OPTIONS

For a small number of women, the dysmenorrhea will persist despite medical management, and in this group of
women it is appropriate to consider surgical options.
Surgery therefore constitutes the final diagnostic and therapeutic option in the management of dysmenorrhea.98,99

underlying endometriosis, but the risks of laparoscopic

documentation of the disease must be weighed against the
predicted advantages of having a diagnosis of endometriosis when the symptoms are controlled without
surgery.

LAPAROSCOPY

HYSTERECTOMY

In women who do not obtain adequate pain relief with

NSAIDs and oral contraceptives, the likelihood of pelvic
pathology such as endometriosis is high. In one study of
100 women with pelvic pain who did not have adequate
pain relief with NSAIDs, 80% were found to have
endometriosis at laparoscopy.100

Pelvic pain should be carefully investigated prior to considering a hysterectomy. There is a case for hysterectomy
when an underlying disease, amenable to hysterectomy, is
demonstrated and the patient has completed her family.
Hysterectomy may offer permanent relief for the woman
who has pain confined to her menses, and therefore there is
good evidence for excellent patient satisfaction following
hysterectomy in this context.105108

Endometriosis is present at laparoscopy in 12% to 32% of

women undergoing laparoscopy to determine the cause of
pelvic pain,101,102 but it is found in up to 50% of teenagers
undergoing laparoscopy for evaluation of chronic pelvic
pain or dysmenorrhea.103,104 The lesions of endometriosis
may be cauterized or resected at the time of laparoscopy
followed by medical suppressive therapy.
In women who experience relief of their dysmenorrhea
with NSAIDs or oral contraceptives, there is a possibility of

PRESACRAL NEURECTOMY

Presacral neurectomy (PSN) involves the total transection

of the presacral nerves lying within the boundaries of the
interiliac triangle. PSN seems to be the method of pelvic
denervation that is associated with the major long-term
effectiveness in pain relief.109,110 In one study, 126 women
underwent laparoscopic management for pain associated
DECEMBER JOGC DCEMBRE 2005 l 1125

SOGC CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE

with endometriosis: 63 were randomized to undergo PSN;

the other women underwent conservative ablation of visible endometriosis lesions. No difference in intraoperative
complications was observed between groups. The 6- and
12-month follow-up visits revealed improved relief with
regard to the severity of dysmenorrhea in patients who were
treated with laparoscopic PSN.111 This improved relief was
also present and statistically significant (P < 0.05) at 24
months following treatment.111 Some of the complications
of this procedure may include constipation as well as urinary urgency which is unlikely to respond to medical treatment. This adverse event was observed in 5% of women
treated with PSN.112
LAPAROSCOPIC UTEROSACRAL
NERVE ABLATION (LUNA)

Resection of the uterosacral ligaments achieves in theory a

more complete uterine denervation than presacral
neurectomy. The intervention carries the risk for complications such as bleeding, ureteral lesions, and pelvic support
disorders. The efficacy of relieving pain associated with
endometriosis was not confirmed in a recent metaanalysis.112,113 In one study involving 180 women scheduled
to undergo laparoscopy for pain and endometriosis, 78

women had uterosacral ligament resection. One year later,

29% of women in this group had persistent dysmenorrhea.
Of the 78 women who had conservative surgery only, 27%
had recurrent dysmenorrhea. Addition of uterosacral ligament resection did not appear to reduce dysmenorrhea.114
Recommendations
1. Surgery constitutes the final diagnostic and therapeutic
option in the management of dysmenorrhea. Laparoscopy should be considered in women who have persistent dysmenorrhea despite medical therapy of NSAIDs
and/or oral contraceptives. (III-C)
2. Hysterectomy may be considered for the management of
dysmenorrhea when medical alternatives have been
refused or failed and fertility is no longer possible or
desired. (II-B)
3. As there is limited evidence for use of presacral
neurectomy in the management of primary
dysmenorrhea, the risks must be carefully weighed
against the expected benefits. (III-C)
4. Laparoscopic uterosacral nerve resection has not been
shown to reduce dysmenorrhea and therefore should not
be advocated as a mainstream treatment option. (III-C)

SECTION 7: COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES (CAM)

In considering complementary and alternative medicine

(CAM) treatments for primary dysmenorrhea, a search of
the conventional medical literature was undertaken.
Though there may be CAMs other than those mentioned
below which are used for dysmenorrhea, we are not aware
of well-designed, published studies that demonstrate efficacy. When advising patients about CAM for primary
dysmenorrhea, care should be taken to consider uncertainty
about long-term efficacy, interactions, and possible harm.
Evidence is limited by small study sizes.
According to one large randomized controlled trial, vitamin
B1 at 100 mg daily is an effective treatment for primary
dysmenorrhea.114
Vitamin E taken 2 days before and 3 days after onset of
menses (500 mg/day) significantly improved primary
dysmenorrhea in a small study of adolescents.115 Daily vitamin E, however, taken with ibuprofen during menses only,
showed no significant difference.116
A small trial showed that fish oil (2.5 g/day) in combination
with vitamin B12 (7.5 mg/day) may be helpful in reducing
dysmenorrhea.117 There is some suggestion that both fish
oil and Neptune krill oil (2 g/day) may produce improvement from baseline with the Neptune krill oil requiring
1126 l DECEMBER JOGC DCEMBRE 2005

fewer additional analgesics.118 Other small studies of fish oil

have shown promise119,120 and further studies are
recommended.
Overall, magnesium was more effective than placebo in
improving pain control in primary dysmenorrhea.121,122
Results are tempered by high participant withdrawal from
the studies as well as different doses prescribed differently.
In a small study, vitamin B6 alone (200 mg/day) was helpful
and even better than a combination of vitamin B6
(200 mg/day) with magnesium (500 mg/day) in reducing
dysmenorrhea and the use of additional medications. No
differences were seen between vitamin B6 alone (200 mg/day)
and magnesium alone (500 mg/day).123
One study of 40 participants showed that Tokishakuyaku-san, a combination Japanese herbal remedy
(7.5 mg/day in divided doses), reduced pain and decreased
additional diclofenac use during a 2-month treatment
period and a further 2-month untreated follow-up. These
findings may be limited by differences between Eastern and
Western diagnostic techniques.124
In a small study, mefenamic acid (250 mg q6h) was superior
to essence of Fennel's fruit ([2%] 25 gtts po q4h). There
was, however, no placebo group in this study.125

Primary Dysmenorrhea Consensus Guideline

Recommendations
1. The following CAM has limited support and may be considered in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea,
though further study is required:
Vitamin B1 (I-B)
2. The following CAMs showed an initial positive response
for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and merit
further study:
Vitamin E (I-C)
Fish oil / Vitamin B12 combination (I-C)
Magnesium (II-1 C)

Vitamin B6 (II-1 C)
Toki-shakuyaku-san (II-1 C)
Fish oil (II-3 C)
Neptune krill oil (II-3 C)
3. The following CAMs have not shown to have any benefit
in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea and may need
further study:
Vitamin B6/magnesium combination (II-1)
Vitamin E (daily) in addition to ibuprofen
(during menses) (II-3)
Fennel (II-3)

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