Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What treatment is typically recommended for dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia in a young girl?

1. Levonorgestrel IUD

2. Oral contraceptive pills

3. GnRH agonists

4. Progestins only

The correct answer is: Oral contraceptive pills

Oral contraceptive pills are typically recommended for managing symptoms of dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding) in young girls for several reasons. Firstly, oral contraceptives help regulate hormone levels, which can lead to a reduction in both the intensity and duration of menstrual bleeding. They typically contain estrogen and progestin, which work together to stabilize the menstrual cycle and reduce uterine lining buildup, thereby decreasing the likelihood of heavy bleeding during menses. Secondly, the use of oral contraceptives can alleviate menstrual pain by preventing ovulation and, consequently, lowering the levels of prostaglandins – compounds that contribute to the painful contractions of the uterus during menstruation. In addition, oral contraceptives have the added benefit of being widely accepted and safe for young girls, provided there are no contraindications. They are usually considered as the first-line treatment for these menstrual disorders due to their dual effect on managing both pain and excessive bleeding effectively. Other options, while having specific use cases, may not be as suitable for young girls. Levonorgestrel IUDs can be effective for menorrhagia but may not be the first choice for someone who has not yet