Which condition is characterized by painful menstruation?

Dysmenorrhea is the condition characterized by painful menstruation. It typically refers to the cramping and discomfort that occurs before or during a woman's menstrual cycle. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, headaches, or fatigue. Dysmenorrhea can be classified into two types: primary dysmenorrhea, which occurs without any underlying pelvic pathology, and secondary dysmenorrhea, which is due to an underlying condition such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.

Menorrhagia, while related to menstrual cycles, refers specifically to excessively heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding rather than pain. Oligomenorrhea indicates infrequent menstrual periods, typically defined as having cycles greater than 35 days apart, and does not imply any specific pain associated with menstruation. Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation entirely and does not relate to painful periods, as there are no menstrual cycles occurring. Understanding the distinct definitions of these terms is crucial for distinguishing between various menstrual disorders and for the appropriate management of female reproductive health.