In which menstrual phase do most women begin to experience symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea?

• A. Follicular phase
• B. Luteal phase
• C. Ovulatory phase
• D. Menstrual phase

Answer: (D)

Most women begin to experience symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea during the menstrual phase. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to the pain associated with menstruation that is not caused by underlying reproductive health issues. This pain typically arises as the uterine muscles contract to help shed the uterine lining, leading to increased prostaglandin levels which contribute to cramping and discomfort.

During the menstrual phase, which is characterized by the shedding of the endometrial lining, women may experience varying degrees of cramps, back pain, and other symptoms that are hallmarks of primary dysmenorrhea. This phase starts when menstruation begins and can last for several days, during which these symptoms are most prevalent.

Other phases, such as the follicular phase, luteal phase, and ovulatory phase, generally do not correlate with the onset of primary dysmenorrhea. During these phases, while some women may experience discomfort related to ovulation or hormonal changes, the specific symptoms of dysmenorrhea as they relate to menstruation typically emerge at the start of menstrual bleeding, making the menstrual phase the correct answer.