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Fertility Glossary

Dysmenorrhoea

Painful periods.

Cycle and ovulation

Period pain that stops you doing normal activities, does not settle with simple pain relief, or worsens over time is not something to accept as normal. It can be a sign of endometriosis or adenomyosis, and Australian guidance encourages earlier assessment rather than years of delay.

Also known as: dysmenorrhea, painful periods, period pain

Related Australia guides

Sources

  • Healthdirect Australia (healthdirect.gov.au)
  • Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ranzcog.edu.au)

Last reviewed: 10 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only โ€” always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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