Question
For women who have given birth, how can they differentiate between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea when experiencing pain in the lower abdomen and knees, and seek appropriate treatment?
Answer
After determining whether it is primary or secondary dysmenorrhea, it is important to follow the principle of symptomatic treatment and avoid excessive medication use. Medication should be used in a timely, adequate, and regular manner according to the condition, and may require a combination of psychological treatment, medication treatment, and physical therapy to alleviate symptoms. Prostaglandin synthesis enzyme inhibitors can effectively inhibit the production of prostaglandins, reduce pain, and should be taken starting the day before the onset of dysmenorrhea, for a continuous period of 48 to 72 hours or based on the previous duration of dysmenorrhea.