Painful periods, medically called dysmenorrhea, are one of the most common reasons women seek gynecologic care. While some cramping during menstruation is normal, pain that disrupts work, school, sleep, or daily activities is not something you have to live with. Effective treatment options exist, and a family medicine physician can evaluate and manage most cases without a specialist referral. At Westlight Medical Group in Anaheim, CA, Dr. Divneet Wadhwa provides evaluation and treatment for painful periods as part of comprehensive women's health care.
What Are Painful Periods?
Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful menstrual cramping. It affects an estimated 50 to 90 percent of menstruating women at some point in their lives and is the leading cause of short-term school and work absences in women under 35. Pain typically begins one to two days before menstruation and peaks in the first 24 to 48 hours. It is most often felt in the lower abdomen but can radiate to the lower back and thighs. See all women's health services at Westlight Medical Group.
Dysmenorrhea falls into two categories: primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea.
Causes of Painful Periods
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain without an underlying pelvic condition. It is caused by prostaglandins, hormone-like compounds that trigger uterine contractions during menstruation. Higher prostaglandin levels produce stronger contractions and more intense cramping. Primary dysmenorrhea is most common in younger women and often improves with age or after pregnancy. Learn about painful period evaluation at Westlight Medical Group.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea
Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain caused by an identifiable medical condition. Common causes include endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus; uterine fibroids; adenomyosis; and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Secondary dysmenorrhea tends to worsen over time rather than improve and may include pain outside of menstruation, heavy bleeding, or pain during intercourse. If Dr. Wadhwa suspects an underlying condition at your evaluation, she will coordinate further workup and, when needed, a referral to a gynecologist while continuing to manage your overall care at Westlight Medical Group.
Symptoms of Painful Periods
Common symptoms of dysmenorrhea include cramping pain in the lower abdomen, lower back pain or aching, pain that radiates into the thighs, nausea, headaches, fatigue, and loose stools. Symptoms associated with secondary dysmenorrhea may also include pain during intercourse, pain with bowel movements, heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, bloating, and pelvic pain outside of your period. Schedule a painful period evaluation at Westlight Medical Group in Anaheim, CA.
When Should You See a Doctor for Painful Periods?
Schedule an evaluation if your period pain consistently interferes with daily activities, is getting worse over time, begins before your period starts or continues after it ends, is accompanied by heavy bleeding, causes pain during intercourse or bowel movements, or is not adequately controlled by over-the-counter pain relievers. These symptoms can indicate secondary dysmenorrhea and a possible underlying condition. Westlight Medical Group in Anaheim, CA accepts new patients for painful period evaluation. Call (657) 749-6633 or request an appointment online.
Treatment Options for Painful Periods in Anaheim, CA
Treatment for dysmenorrhea depends on the cause, severity, and your personal health goals. Dr. Wadhwa takes an individualized approach. Your reproductive goals, tolerance for hormonal versus non-hormonal options, and overall health history all shape the plan. Schedule a painful period evaluation at Westlight Medical Group.
NSAIDs: Ibuprofen and Naproxen
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first-line treatment for primary dysmenorrhea. Ibuprofen and naproxen reduce prostaglandin production, directly targeting the mechanism that causes cramping. They are most effective when started one to two days before your period begins rather than waiting for pain to peak. For many women, consistent NSAID use throughout the first two to three days of menstruation significantly reduces cramping. Dr. Wadhwa can recommend optimal dosing and timing for your specific cycle during your women's health visit at Westlight Medical Group in Anaheim, CA.
Hormonal Contraceptives
Combined oral contraceptive pills suppress ovulation and reduce the buildup of uterine lining, which lowers prostaglandin levels and typically reduces menstrual pain and bleeding. Progestin-only pills, the hormonal patch, and the vaginal ring work similarly. These options are appropriate for women who also want contraception or who have not responded adequately to NSAIDs alone. Ask about contraceptive options at your well-woman visit in Anaheim, CA.
Hormonal IUD: Mirena and Liletta
A hormonal IUD, particularly Mirena or Liletta, is one of the most effective long-term options for painful period management. Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of levonorgestrel locally, which thins the uterine lining, significantly reduces menstrual bleeding, and relieves cramping. Many women experience markedly lighter periods or no periods at all after insertion. The IUD lasts up to eight years and is fully reversible. Dr. Wadhwa provides IUD consultation and in-office insertion at Westlight Medical Group in Anaheim, CA, often at the same appointment as your evaluation. Learn more about IUD insertion at Westlight.
Specialist Referral When Needed
If evaluation suggests secondary dysmenorrhea from endometriosis, fibroids, or another underlying condition requiring imaging or surgical evaluation, Dr. Wadhwa will coordinate a referral to a gynecologist while continuing to manage your overall care. Most women with painful periods do not need a specialist for initial evaluation and treatment.
How to Get Painful Period Treatment in Anaheim, CA
Westlight Medical Group is accepting new patients for painful period evaluation and treatment in Anaheim, CA. Dr. Wadhwa sees patients from Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, Orange, Garden Grove, Fullerton, and throughout Orange County. Call (657) 749-6633, email hello@westlightmedical.com, or request an appointment online. Telehealth visits are available for initial discussion. An IUD consultation and insertion can often be scheduled at the same visit as your evaluation.