Painful Menstruation which is also known as Dysmenorrhea is a serious cramping and discomfort experienced by some women during their period cycle. This condition is mainly caused by uterine contractions as the body sheds the uterine lining and can result in pain in the lower abdomen, backache, and a general feeling of being ill. Feeling mild discomfort during the period is normal but Dysmenorrhea involves severe pain that can interfere with daily activities. There are two types of painful menstruation, primary and secondary which differ in the underlying causes.