DYSMENORRHOEA
Dysmenorrhoea refers to intense, aching, dull, or sharp pain linked to menstruation. The causes of dysmenorrhea may include pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), intrauterine devices (IUDs), stress, poor health, pelvic inflammatory disease, or even FGM.
Dysmenorrhea can significantly impact the daily activities of those experiencing severe pain. Pain management through medication or conservative methods is common. Individuals with dysmenorrhea may need to skip school, work, or social engagements due to the condition.
BLOCKED BLOOD FLOW
Women who have undergone type 3 FGM or have scarring obstructing the vaginal introitus may encounter a blockage in menstrual blood flow.
Due to the obstruction, menstrual blood may flow slowly or be completely blocked, potentially leading to coagulation and exacerbating the blockage. This situation can result in complications like infections, back pain, and frequently, dysmenorrhoea.
LONGER PERIODS
Women who have undergone type 3 FGM or have scarring obstructing the vaginal introitus may experience prolonged menstrual bleeding.
Obstruction preventing the free flow of menstrual blood can extend the duration of bleeding for these women. This prolonged bleeding can contribute to dysmenorrhoea.
PAINFUL SCARS
Women who have undergone any type of FGM may experience dysmenorrhoea due to scarring in the genital area from the procedure. Pain may be intensified by irritation from menstrual products.
PAINFUL MEMORIES
Women who have undergone any type of FGM may have distressing thoughts, flashbacks, and painful memories associated with the practice during their menstrual cycles. These periods of psychological distress and pain during menstruation may be triggered by dysmenorrhoea resulting from FGM.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
It is important to recognize that not all FGM survivors will experience these symptoms or dysmenorrhea. Additionally, dysmenorrhoea is just one of the many enduring health consequences of FGM, including dyspareunia, infections, HIV transmission, urinary issues, fistula formation, depression, and anxiety.
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