Primary dysmenorrhea or endometriosis?

Dysmenorrhea is a common complaint of women during their reproductive years. Primary dysmenorrhea and endometriosis are the most common forms of pelvic pain. Through a comprehensive health history and physical examination, a clinical diagnosis can be made to facilitate optimum management of symptoms. The incidence, etiology, symptomatology and treatment modalities for these entities are discussed. Particular attention is devoted to the differentiation between primary dysmenorrhea and endometriosis.