How to prepare for a video visit about Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

Audience: pediatric

Menstrual cramps, also called dysmenorrhea, are common in young people who have periods. These cramps can cause pain in the lower belly before or during a period. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you learn how to manage these cramps and find out if more care is needed. To get the most from your video visit, it helps to prepare by noting your symptoms, any medicines or remedies you use, and questions you want to ask. During the visit, your provider may ask about your pain, how it affects your daily activities, and other health details. Remember, while many cramps are normal, some signs need urgent care. This guide will help you get ready for your video visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do for menstrual cramps, and know when to seek in-person care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy bleeding soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe abdominal pain unrelieved by pain medication — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Fever over 38°C (100.4°F) with abdominal pain — seek medical evaluation soon.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and menstrual history
• Providing advice on pain management and home care
• Answering questions about menstrual cramps
• Determining if in-person evaluation is needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination
• Ordering or conducting imaging or lab tests
• Providing emergency care
• Diagnosing complex or rare conditions requiring in-person assessment

What are menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)?

Menstrual cramps are pains in the lower belly that happen before or during a period. They often feel like a dull ache or sharp cramping. Many young people experience cramps, especially in the first few years after periods start. These cramps usually come from the uterus tightening to shed its lining.

How to prepare for your video visit

Before your video visit, write down:

What to expect during the video visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may ask about your period cycle, pain patterns, and any other health issues. They might suggest ways to manage cramps, such as over-the-counter pain relief, heat therapy, or lifestyle changes. If needed, they may recommend an in-person visit for further tests or treatment.

When to seek urgent care

Some symptoms need quick medical attention. Contact emergency services or go to a clinic if you have:

Managing menstrual cramps at home

Common ways to ease cramps include:

Limitations of telemedicine for menstrual cramps

Telemedicine can provide advice, education, and some treatment options. However, it cannot perform physical exams, imaging tests, or procedures. If your symptoms suggest a more serious condition, your provider will guide you to get in-person care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private place with good internet connection for the video visit.
• Have a list of your symptoms, including when cramps started and their severity.
• Note any medicines or remedies you have tried for the cramps.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.
• Have a calendar or notes about your menstrual cycle handy.
• Ensure your device’s camera and microphone work properly.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on managing cramps at home.
• Take recommended medicines as directed and monitor your symptoms.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if symptoms worsen.
• Keep track of your menstrual cycle and any changes in symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you develop any red flag symptoms.

FAQs

What causes menstrual cramps?

Menstrual cramps happen because the uterus tightens to help shed its lining during a period. These contractions can cause pain. Hormones called prostaglandins play a role in causing these muscle contractions.

Are menstrual cramps normal for young people?

Yes, many young people experience cramps, especially in the first few years after their periods start. Mild to moderate cramps are common and often improve over time.

When should I see a doctor about menstrual cramps?

If your cramps are very painful, stop you from doing daily activities, or come with heavy bleeding, fever, or other unusual symptoms, you should see a healthcare provider.

Can I take medicine for menstrual cramps?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen often help reduce cramps. Always follow the dosing instructions and talk to a healthcare provider if you have questions.

Can telemedicine help with menstrual cramps?

Yes, telemedicine can help by providing advice, answering questions, and guiding you on how to manage cramps. However, it cannot replace physical exams or emergency care.

Sources

1. Dysmenorrhea — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Menstrual Health — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Dysmenorrhea in Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.