Demystifying menstrual disorders: what your cycle is telling you

Menstrual cycles can vary widely from person to person. However, certain irregularities can be signs of underlying health conditions. Understanding menstrual disorders and what your cycle is telling you is key to identifying potential issues and knowing when to seek help.
 

What is considered a normal menstrual cycle?

A "normal" menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 to 35 days, with the actual period lasting between 3 to 7 days. The amount of blood loss during a normal period ranges from 30 to 80 ml (about 2 to 6 tablespoons). Some variation in cycle length is normal, but consistency is key.

If your cycle is fairly regular and you experience mild to moderate symptoms like cramps or mood swings, this is usually considered normal. However, any significant changes or persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.

 

What are the most common menstrual disorders?

Menstrual disorders encompass a wide range of irregularities related to your menstrual cycle. Some of the most common types include:

• Amenorrhoea: the absence of menstruation. This can occur if your period stops for more than 3 months or if you haven’t started menstruating by age 15.
   
• Dysmenorrhoea: painful periods characterised by severe cramps that can interfere with daily activities.
   
• Menorrhagia: excessively heavy periods, where blood loss is greater than 80 ml per cycle, often requiring frequent changes of sanitary products.
   
• Oligomenorrhoea: infrequent periods, usually occurring more than 35 days apart.
   
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): a collection of emotional, physical, and behavioural symptoms that occur 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation.
   

Each of these disorders can be caused by different factors, and identifying them early is essential for treatment.

 

What causes menstrual disorders?

Menstrual disorders can have various causes, ranging from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. Some of the common causes include:
 

• Hormonal imbalances: conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can affect hormone levels and disrupt your menstrual cycle.
   
• Stress and lifestyle: high levels of stress, significant weight loss or gain, and excessive exercise can interfere with the menstrual cycle.
   
• Endometriosis: a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and potentially heavy periods.
   
• Uterine fibroids: non-cancerous growths in the uterus can lead to heavy bleeding and longer periods.
   
• Medications: some medications, including blood thinners, contraceptives, and certain antidepressants, can affect your cycle.
   

Understanding the root cause is essential for finding the right treatment, whether it involves lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions.

 

When should you see a doctor about your period?

While many menstrual irregularities are common and harmless, some symptoms warrant a visit to a gynaecologist. You should seek medical advice if you experience:
 

• Periods that are irregular or infrequent (less than every 35 days).
   
• Heavy bleeding that soaks through sanitary products in an hour or requires changing pads or tampons frequently.
   
• Severe pain during periods that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relief.
   
• Periods that last longer than 7 days.
   
• Bleeding or spotting between periods or after intercourse.
   
• Periods that have stopped for three months or more and you are not pregnant or experiencing menopause.
   

Early diagnosis and treatment of menstrual disorders can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.

 

What treatments are available for menstrual disorders?

Treatment for menstrual disorders depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Some common treatment options include:
 

• Lifestyle changes: for cases where stress or weight changes are the cause, adopting a healthier lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can help.
   
• Medications: hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can regulate periods, reduce pain, and manage heavy bleeding. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also help relieve cramps and reduce bleeding.
   
• Surgical intervention: in cases of endometriosis, fibroids, or polyps, surgery may be recommended to remove abnormal tissue or growths.
   
• Therapies for underlying conditions: if a thyroid disorder or PCOS is causing menstrual irregularities, specific treatments for these conditions will be required to restore hormonal balance.
   

Your gynaecologist will recommend a treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and diagnosis.

 

Can menstrual disorders affect fertility?

Yes, some menstrual disorders can have an impact on fertility. Conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and amenorrhoea are known to interfere with ovulation and can make it more difficult to conceive. Heavy bleeding or irregular cycles may also be a sign of an underlying issue affecting reproductive health.

If you are trying to conceive and experiencing menstrual irregularities, it is important to consult with a doctor to evaluate your fertility and address any underlying conditions that may be affecting your reproductive health.