Painful Menstrual Periods – patient information to assist informed consent
This patient education pamphlet provides treatment information on painful menstrual periods. Primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea are discussed in detail. The diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the pain are discussed, including diagnostic scans (such as ultrasound), diagnostic hysteroscopy and diagnostic laparoscopy. The potential underlying causes of the pain are outlined, such as adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) and fibroids, among others.
The medical treatments available are described for patients needing medication to treat symptoms. The medical treatments discussed include: NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, contraceptive pills and devices, paracetamol, paracetamol with codeine and antibiotics, among others.
This leaflet can be a useful tool for patients considering surgery for the treatment of secondary dysmenorrhea. The different surgeries for the treatment of endometriosis, uterine fibroids and removal of an IUD are discussed. Hysterectomy and hysteroscopy are also described.
The treatment of dysmenorrhea is described in plain English to assist the patients’ understanding of health information and to help patients make informed decisions. The Obstetrics and Gynaecology patient information leaflets are printed in five-colour on high-quality A4 sheets.