Menstrual Disorders
Understanding menstrual disorder
Remember that every woman has a distinct definition of what constitutes a “normal” menstrual cycle. What appears to be a typical cycle for you could not be for someone else. Pay attention to your body and consult a trusted consultant like Dr Salem if you observe any notable changes in your menstrual cycle.
Common Menstrual Disorders
Menstrual disorders can significantly impact a woman’s daily life. Understanding the various types and their causes can help manage these conditions effectively.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
One to two weeks before menstruation, some women may experience PMS, which can cause both emotional and physical symptoms. These include:
- Bloating
- Irritability or feelings of sadness
- Backaches and headaches
- Breast soreness
- Acne
- Food cravings
- Excessive fatigue
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Feelings of stress
- Constipation
- Mild stomach cramps
The type and severity of symptoms can differ each month. While uncomfortable, PMS is generally not a cause for concern unless it disrupts daily life
Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)
Menorrhagia is heavy menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than the typical 5-7 days. Hormonal imbalances, particularly in progesterone and oestrogen, are the primary cause. Other causes include:
- Vaginal or pelvic infections
- Puberty
- Thyroid disorder
- Uterine fibroids or polypi
- Changes in diet or exercise routines
Absent Periods (Amenorrhea)
Amenorrhea refers to the absence of periods. Primary amenorrhea is when a girl hasn’t had her first period by age sixteen, often due to hormonal issues, congenital abnormalities, or delayed puberty. Secondary amenorrhea occurs when a woman misses six months or more of regular periods and can be caused by:
- Anorexia
- Thyroid disorder
- Sudden weight changes
- Ovarian cysts
- Stopping birth control
- Pregnancy
Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
Painful periods, or dysmenorrhea, involve severe cramps caused by uterine contractions. While cramps are common, extreme pain may indicate underlying issues such as:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
Understanding these menstrual disorders and their causes is crucial for effective management and treatment. If you notice significant changes in your menstrual cycle or severe symptoms, consult Dr Salem and get prompt help.
Diagnosing Menstrual Bleeding Disorders
Diagnosing menstrual bleeding disorders involves several essential steps:
Pelvic Exam: Checks reproductive organs and detects inflammation in the cervix or vagina.
Pap Smear: Rules out cervical cancer or other underlying disorders.
Hormonal Imbalances: Blood tests can identify if hormonal issues are causing menstrual disorders.
Pregnancy Test: Conducted via blood or urine if pregnancy is suspected.
Endometrial Biopsy: Uterine lining sample is tested.
Hysteroscopy: A tiny camera examines the uterus for anomalies.
Ultrasonography: Creates an image of the uterus to identify abnormalities
These steps are crucial for diagnosing menstrual bleeding disorders and ensuring appropriate treatment.
Menstrual Disorders Treatment
Effective menstrual disorders treatment depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:
- Hormonal Therapies: Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, and other hormone-regulating medications.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or prescription medications.
- Lifestyle Changes: Stress management, balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Surgical Options: Procedures like hysteroscopy or laparoscopic surgery for conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.
- Medications: Treatment for underlying conditions like thyroid disorders or PCOS.
- Therapies: Physical therapy or counselling for stress-related menstrual disorders.
