What are menstrual disorders?
Menstrual disorders can be considered disruptive physical issues or emotional imbalances just prior to or during the menstruation phase. Menstrual disorders may come with heavy bleeding, missed periods, and mood swings that are unimaginable for women.
Some women get through their monthly period cycles with ease and no concerns. As long as there is no change in their regiments, food they eat, and medicine consumption, the period is regular, and they start and stop like clockwork each month.
However, in certain rare circumstances, women usually experience a host of physical issues or even emotional symptoms occurring during or before menstruation begins.
Menstrual cycles have proper flow and form in the medical community, and there are several treatments to curb the overwhelming conditions or concerns around Menstrual Disorders.
Types of Menstrual Disorders:
Knowing about your body and detecting the types or symptoms of menstrual disorders is the first step leading to its treatment. It can happen to any woman and is not something to be concerned about but should be handled at the earliest. If you experience any symptoms, then you may have a menstrual disorder. The types of menstrual disorders include
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) - This type of menstrual disorder may include heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Dysmenorrhea - In the case of dysmenorrhea, patients may feel pain or unease during menstrual periods.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder(PMDD)
The Common Symptoms of Menstrual Disorders?
Disorders and illnesses can be diagnosed first by identifying the symptoms at an early stage. With reference to menstrual disorders, the symptoms are laid down according to the type of menstrual disorder. They are as follows:
Abnorml uterine bleeding(AUB):
- Heavy Menstrual bleeding during periods is one of the main symptoms that are displayed in the event.
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause is not normal, and if this occurs, it is necessary to visit a healthcare professional immediately.
Dysmenorrhea:
People facing dysmenorrhea may go through several symptoms, such as:
- Menstrual pain during period.
- Diarrhoea
- Faintness leads to physical symptoms like paleness or sweat.
- Lightheadedness.
Premenstrual Syndrome(PMS):
The physical symptoms associated with PMS are as follows:
- Bloating
- Swelling of the breasts or pain in the region
- Feeling fatigued
- Constipation
- Headaches
- The feeling of anger, anxiety, or confusion
- Mood swings, tension, or depression
- Inability to concentrate.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder(PMDD):
- Anxiety, depression, and confusion
- Depressive mood disorder lasting for weeks
What causes menstrual disorders?
The causes of menstrual disorders are several, leading to uneasiness and overall pain during menstruation. The main causes that lead to menstrual disorders are as follows.
Heavy menstrual bleeding could be caused due to hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities in the uterus, or even medical conditions. As far as medical conditions are concerned, the common causes for heavy menstrual bleeding could be caused due to thyroid problems, liver or kidney disease, leukaemia, a complication from IUDs, fibroids, or miscarriage.
Primary amenorrhea could be caused due to medical conditions such as problems with ovaries, issues with the hypothalamus, or even genetic abnormalities. Secondary amenorrhea could be caused due to problems that affect estrogen levels, constant stressful situations, weight loss, or lack of exercise.
PMS is caused due to the rising and falling levels of the hormones such as estrogen and progesterone in the body. These factors influence serotonin levels in the body, leading to mood swings.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, or PMDD, is seen particularly in women who have a history of depression. If depression persists, it is best to consult a psychiatrist or a therapist who specializes in this field.
When should I see a doctor?
It is always advisable in the situation when dealing with menstrual disorders that you consult a doctor at the earliest to resolve issues. So here's when you should consult with a doctor.
- if your periods stop for longer than three months and there are no symptoms of pregnancy.
- Irregular periods
- Experience periods longer than seven days
- Symptoms during the period include strange discharge or fever.
Remedies/Treatment:
Menstrual disorders lead to unexpected issues. However, there are several treatments ranging from over-the-counter medication to surgery. As per the diagnosis provided by the doctor and in accordance with the severity of the patient's condition, the treatment will be suggested by your doctor. The treatments are as follows:
- Oral contraceptives
- Thyroid medication
- Endometrial resection - it is a process where the surgeon uses an electrosurgical wire to remove the uterus lining safely.
- Myomectomy - removal of fibroids
- Hysterectomy - Removal of the uterus
- Vitamin D supplements
Other natural remedies that doctors might suggest are:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Exercise
Menstrual disorders usually have disruptive physical or emotional symptoms before or during menstruation. It causes heavy bleeding, mood swings, or uneasiness; however, with proper diagnoses, treatment, and implementation of remedies which involve natural remedies too, it is a disorder that can be resolved medically or naturally.
Menstrual disorders are common in adolescent girls. It could be irregular, heavy, and painful. This could usually lead to irregular periods or even painful periods. if there are complications with respect to this, contact a physician today!
An experienced gynaecologist will conduct a physical exam and ultrasound if necessary and depending on the circumstances provide OTC medications or suggest surgery which is the best choice for health.
In certain circumstances, according to the condition of patients, doctors may suggest: • Exercise at least 20-30 minutes, 3 times a week • Changing diet by reducing refined sugars, salt, nicotine, caffeine, or even alcohol. • Establishing a proper bedtime routine.
Yes, it can lead to menstrual disorders. However, the stress has to be consistent and overwhelming to be a reason for menstrual disorders occurring. It is advisable that relaxation exercises such as stretches, yoga, or meditation are to be done to relieve these issues.
The following are some of the most common menstrual disorders in women: • Abnormal uterine bleeding. • Painful periods – Dysmenorrhea. • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) • Light or irregular menstruation – Oligomenorrhea.
