Question: What Causes Menstrual Cramps?
Answer: Prostaglandin is a hormone, produced by the uterus, which causes uterine contractions. The medical community believes that high levels of prostaglandin may contribute to menstrual cramps, as well as to dysmenorrhea. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), stress, and anxiety may also contribute to menstrual cramps.
See also:
- Things to Know About Menstrual Cramps
- When to See Your Doctor About Menstrual Cramps
- Self-Help Remedies for Menstrual Cramps
- Medical Treatments for Menstrual Cramps
Source: Painful Menstrual Periods; Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia; http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003150.htm; accessed 05/21/08.
