Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What substance is primarily responsible for dysmenorrhea symptoms?

1. Estrogen

2. Human chorionic gonadotropin

3. Prostaglandins

4. Progesterone

The correct answer is: Prostaglandins

Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual cramps, is primarily associated with the release of prostaglandins. These are hormone-like substances produced by the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), and they play a significant role in regulating the physiological processes associated with menstruation. Prostaglandins are responsible for inducing uterine contractions, which can lead to the painful symptoms commonly experienced during menstruation. When estrogen and progesterone levels drop before menstruation, the increase in prostaglandin production occurs. Increased levels of prostaglandins can lead to heightened contractions, reduced blood flow, and tissue ischemia in the uterus, all of which contribute to the sensation of pain. While hormones like estrogen and progesterone do influence the menstrual cycle and can impact dysmenorrhea, it is specifically the action of prostaglandins that causes the intense contractions and pain associated with dysmenorrhea. Understanding the role of prostaglandins in this context helps clarify why they are identified as the principal mediators of these symptoms.