Diagnosis Code N94.6 is a specific classification within the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) system. This code is designated for “Dysmenorrhea, unspecified,” a condition characterized by painful menstruation. Understanding this code is crucial for medical billing, coding, and healthcare data analysis, particularly when dealing with women’s health issues.
Decoding N94.6: Dysmenorrhea, Unspecified
N94.6 falls under the category of codes related to noninflammatory disorders of the female genital tract. As a “billable/specific code,” N94.6 is valid for claiming reimbursement for medical services in the United States, effective from October 1, 2015. The term “dysmenorrhea” itself refers to pain associated with menstruation. The “unspecified” designation indicates that the documentation doesn’t specify whether the dysmenorrhea is primary (not due to an underlying pelvic condition) or secondary (due to a pelvic disorder).
US flag graphic representing the United States, relevant to the ICD-10-CM coding system used in the USA for diagnosis code N94.6, Dysmenorrhea, unspecified.
Dysmenorrhea, often referred to as painful periods or menstrual cramps, is a common gynecological complaint. It involves abnormally painful abdominal cramps that occur during menstruation. While many women experience mild discomfort during their periods, dysmenorrhea is characterized by pain severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Clinically, it is described as difficult and painful menstruation, requiring medical attention when symptoms are significant.
ICD-10-CM Coding Rules and N94.6
The ICD-10-CM system provides specific rules for coding to ensure accuracy and avoid misclassification. For N94.6, it’s important to note the “Type 1 Excludes” rule. A Type 1 Excludes note clearly states “not coded here.” This means that conditions listed under this note should never be coded with N94.6. These exclusions are typically for conditions that are mutually exclusive with unspecified dysmenorrhea, preventing the simultaneous use of codes that represent contradictory or inherently linked conditions (like congenital vs. acquired forms of the same condition, if applicable in a broader context, though not specifically listed for N94.6).
Clinical Relevance and Synonyms
In medical practice, diagnosis code N94.6 is used when a female patient presents with symptoms of dysmenorrhea, and the specific type (primary or secondary) is not yet determined or not specified in the medical record. Synonyms for dysmenorrhea, which all fall under the umbrella of N94.6 when unspecified, include:
- Dysmenorrhea
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Painful menstruation
These terms are used interchangeably in clinical settings to describe the condition that would be coded as N94.6.
Code History and Context
The diagnosis code N94.6 was introduced in the 2016 ICD-10-CM code set, effective October 1, 2015, marking the transition to the non-draft version of ICD-10-CM. Since its inception, the code description and application have remained consistent through the 2025 edition, which became effective October 1, 2024. This stability indicates the code’s established role in the medical coding framework. N94.6 is positioned within a range of related codes, including those for primary (N94.4) and secondary (N94.5) dysmenorrhea, as well as other conditions associated with female genital organs and the menstrual cycle (N94.8, N94.9). This placement highlights its importance as a distinct yet related entity within gynecological diagnoses.
In conclusion, diagnosis code N94.6, Dysmenorrhea, unspecified, is a vital tool for classifying and documenting cases of painful menstruation where the specific etiology is not detailed. Its accurate use is essential for medical coding, billing processes, and for maintaining comprehensive health records related to women’s health.
