Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank Related

Review Introduction to Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Test Bank related questions and content

An adolescent asks the nurse what causes primary dysmenorrhea. The nurse's response should be based on which statement?

  • A. It is an inherited problem.
  • B. Excessive estrogen production causes uterine pain.
  • C. There is no physiologic cause; it is a psychological reaction.
  • D. There is a relation between prostaglandins and uterine contractility.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Primary dysmenorrhea is painful menstruation that occurs without any underlying gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis. The cause of primary dysmenorrhea is related to the release of prostaglandins during menstruation. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that act as chemical messengers in the body, causing the uterus to contract and shed its lining during menstruation. High levels of prostaglandins can lead to increased uterine muscle contractions, resulting in pain. Therefore, the nurse should explain to the adolescent that there is a relation between prostaglandins and uterine contractility as the cause of primary dysmenorrhea.