title: Primary dysmenorrhea consensus guideline.
abstract: METHODS
  Members of this consensus group were selected based on individual expertise to represent a range of practical and academic experience both in terms of location in Canada and type of practice, as well as subspecialty expertise along with general gynaecology backgrounds. The consensus group reviewed all available evidence through the English and French medical literature and available data from a survey of Canadian women. Recommendations were established as consensus statements. The final document was reviewed and approved by the Executive and Council of the SOGC.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This document provides a summary of up-to-date evidence regarding the diagnosis, investigations, and medical and surgical management of dysmenorrhea. The resulting recommendations may be adapted by individual health care workers when serving women who suffer from this condition.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Dysmenorrhea is an extremely common and sometimes debilitating condition for women of reproductive age. A multidisciplinary approach involving a combination of lifestyle, medications, and allied health services should be used to limit the impact of this condition on activities of daily living. In some circumstances, surgery is required to offer the desired relief.
  
  
  RESULTS
  This guideline discusses the various options in managing dysmenorrhea. Patient information materials may be derived from these guidelines in order to educate women in terms of their options and possible risks and benefits of various treatment strategies. Women who find an acceptable management strategy for this condition may benefit from an improved quality of life.
authors.forename: Guylaine
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Lefebvre
authors.forename: Odette
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Pinsonneault
authors.forename: Viola
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Antao
authors.forename: Amanda
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Black
authors.forename: Margaret
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Burnett
authors.forename: Kymm
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Feldman
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Lea
authors.forename: Magali
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Robert
mesh_terms: D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004412:Dysmenorrhea / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011788:Quality of Life; D012307:Risk Factors