Which symptom is typical of dysmenorrhea?

• A. Abdominal Cramping
• B. Double Vision
• C. Heavy Bleeding
• D. Shoulder Dystocia

Answer: (A)

Dysmenorrhea is caused by prostaglandin-driven uterine contractions during menstrual flow, so the hallmark symptom is cramping in the lower abdomen. This abdominal cramping may be accompanied by backache, nausea, or headaches, but the defining feature is the painful cramps in the pelvic area. Double vision isn’t related to menstrual pain and would suggest a different issue; heavy bleeding can occur with various menstrual problems but isn’t the typical symptom of dysmenorrhea; shoulder dystocia is a delivery complication and unrelated to menstrual cramps. Thus, abdominal cramping best fits the typical presentation.