Dysmenorrhea, or pain during the menstrual period, is a common menstrual symptom among adolescent girls and young women. Dysmenorrhea is typically described as a crampy, suprapubic pain that begins before or during the menstrual period, although timing will vary between patients. Dysmenorrhea occurs in 20% to 90% of adolescent women. Patients may report various degrees of perceived pain, and about 15% describe their pain as severe. One third to one half of these women report moderate or severe symptoms. Dysmenorrhea can also be associated with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, back pain, and leg pain. Treatment for primary dysmenorrhea should begin when medical care is sought.