Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which organism is the main cause of the dysmenorrhea experienced by many women?

1. Estrogen

2. Human chorionic gonadotropin

3. Prostaglandins

4. Progesterone

The correct answer is: Prostaglandins

Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as painful menstruation, is primarily attributed to the release of prostaglandins. These are lipid compounds that are produced by the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) during the menstrual cycle. Prostaglandins play a pivotal role in the body's inflammatory process and are responsible for the contraction of the uterine muscles. Increased levels of prostaglandins can lead to stronger uterine contractions, which may result in increased pain and discomfort during menstruation. In women with dysmenorrhea, particularly the primary type which is not associated with other reproductive health issues, the body's production of prostaglandins is often elevated during menstruation. This heightened activity can lead to the symptoms commonly experienced, such as cramping and pain in the lower abdomen. Understanding the role of prostaglandins is crucial for recognizing potential treatment strategies for dysmenorrhea, which may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can inhibit the action of these compounds, thereby reducing pain.