What are Period problems?
Period is a normal part of a woman’s menstrual cycle that occurs every month. The onset of menstrual bleeding begins on reaching puberty, most commonly at the age of 10- 12 years and goes on regularly except during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause. Irregularity in the menstrual cycle can cause period problems, which include:
- Amenorrhoea (absence of menstrual bleeding).
- Dysmenorrhoea (painful bleeding).
- Oligomenorrhoea (irregular bleeding).
- Menorrhagia (heavy bleeding).
What are its main signs and symptoms?
Period problems typically constitute the following symptoms:
- Pain
- Cramps
- Headache
- Bloating
- Heavy or too scanty blood flow
- Irregular blood floow
What are the main causes?
Normal menstrual cycles are indicators of your reproductive health. During menarche, for the first few months the periods can be irregular, however, eventually the cycle becomes regular and lasts for 22-31 days. The following causes give rise to period problems:
- Poly Cystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD): presence of cysts in the ovaries.
- Endometriosis: Growth of endometrial tissue on outer wall of uterus which is shed during periods.
- Hormonal imbalance
- Fibroids in uterus
- Intrauterine devices (IUD)
- Hormonal pills
- Thyroid problems
- Blood clotting disorders
How is it diagnosed and treated?
If you are facing any of the period problems, you must seek advice of your gynaecologist, as untreated period problem may result in serious complication. The diagnosis will be done as follows:
- Detailed history of menstruation.
- Physical examination.
- Internal examination of uterus.
- Blood investigation for hormones.
- Urine analysis.
- Ultrasound imaging.
- Endometrial biopsy.
- Hysteroscopy (examining the inside of the uterus).
Menstrual problems need prompt treatment, both symptomatic and to cure the underlying cause. The following treatment options are available:
- Hormonal treatment.
- Plasminogen activator inhibitor to control break-down of blood clots and control heavy bleeding.
- Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) to curb pain.
- Haemostatics to stop bleeding.
- Self -care such as using hot water bag for pain.
- Exercise to offer relief from pelvic pain during periods.
Understanding the normal menstrual cycle and events, which normally take place during the period is important. Please note that a regular check-up by your gynaecologist will help you to overcome period problems and avoid further complications.