Which dysmenorrhea type is labeled Spasmodic?

• A. Spasmodic
• B. Congestive
• C. Inflammatory
• D. Dysmenorrhea

Answer: (A)

Dysmenorrhea is categorized by how the pain arises during menstruation. Spasmodic dysmenorrhea is the form where the pain comes from rhythmic uterine contractions. Prostaglandins released in early menses increase myometrial tone and cause powerful, crampy contractions, producing lower abdominal cramps that may radiate to the back or thighs. This type typically begins with or just before the onset of bleeding and often improves with NSAIDs or heat. In contrast, congestive dysmenorrhea involves a dull, heavy ache and abdominal fullness from pelvic congestion and edema; inflammatory dysmenorrhea is linked to infection or inflammation (e.g., PID or endometritis) and may have systemic symptoms. The general term dysmenorrhea simply describes painful periods without specifying the underlying mechanism.