Primary dysmenorrhoea: a review of the current evidence

Primary dysmenorrhoea, described as period pain in the absence of identifiable pelvic pathology, is the most common gynaecological condition worldwide. It has a significant impact on quality of life and contributes to difficulties in educational attainment, work productivity and gender inequality. Symptoms can be normalised and self-medication or self-help techniques are commonplace. The mainstay of management currently is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and combined hormonal contraceptive pills. However, this may prove inadequate for up to a quarter of women and there is a growing body of evidence to support an individualised multifaceted approach including lifestyle modifications, non-pharmacological and pharmacological agents. Surgery may have a role in severe refractory cases.