Menstrual Disorders
Gynaecology - Menstrual Disorders
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What are Menstrual Disorders?
Menstrual disorders refer to a range of abnormal or irregular menstrual patterns that deviate from a woman’s normal menstrual cycle. These disorders can manifest as changes in the frequency, duration, or intensity of menstrual bleeding, along with associated symptoms. Menstrual disorders can impact a woman’s overall well-being and may require medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.
Most Common Menstrual Disorders
Some of the common menstrual disorders are as under:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Irregular periods occur when the length of the menstrual cycle varies or when periods are unpredictable.
- Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): Excessive or prolonged bleeding during menstruation can cause discomfort and may indicate an underlying issue.
- Absent or Infrequent Periods (Oligomenorrhea): Oligomenorrhea refers to infrequent or very light menstrual periods, with longer intervals between cycles.
- Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Dysmenorrhea involves severe menstrual cramps that can interfere with daily activities and cause significant pain.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): PMS encompasses various physical and emotional symptoms that occur before menstruation, such as mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormonal levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that can lead to irregular periods and other associated symptoms.
- Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These noncancerous growths in the uterus can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
- Endometriosis: Endometriosis occurs when the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it, leading to painful periods and other complications.
- Thyroid Disorders: Imbalances in thyroid hormone levels can affect menstrual regularity. f. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Chronic stress, poor nutrition, excessive exercise, and significant weight changes can influence menstrual patterns.
Prevention and Healthy Menstrual Habits
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consuming a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports hormonal balance and overall menstrual health.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in moderate exercise regularly can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms.
- Stress Management: Implement stress reduction techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, and adequate sleep to promote healthy menstrual function.
- Healthy Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight range through proper diet and exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles.
- Hormonal Birth Control: Some hormonal contraceptives can help regulate periods and manage menstrual disorders.
When to Seek Medical Help?
- Excessive or Prolonged Bleeding: If you experience abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding that affects your daily activities or requires frequent changes of sanitary products.
- Severe Pain: If you have severe menstrual cramps that are not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication or significantly impact your quality of life.
- Persistent Irregularities: If you have persistent irregular periods or changes in menstrual patterns that persist beyond a few months.
- Changes in Menstrual Symptoms: If you notice significant changes in your menstrual symptoms, such as sudden increase in pain, unusually heavy bleeding, or the development of new symptoms.
- Suspected Underlying Conditions: If you suspect an underlying condition such as PCOS, endometriosis, or thyroid disorders, it is essential to seek medical evaluation.