Menstrual abnormalities: what could they mean for your health?

Menstrual abnormalities are changes in your regular menstrual cycle, which can be a common but worrying experience. Most women experience variations in their menstrual cycles at some point in their lives, and while these changes are often harmless, they can sometimes signal underlying health issues. Understanding the types of abnormalities and when to seek medical attention can empower you to manage your health with confidence.

What are common types of menstrual abnormalities?

The menstrual cycle, typically lasting 28 days, can vary from person to person, with a normal range between 21 and 35 days. When cycles fall outside of this range, it may indicate a menstrual abnormality. These abnormalities come in several forms:

Menorrhagia – This term refers to unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding. For instance, if you find yourself soaking through one or more sanitary products every hour for several consecutive hours, or if your periods last longer than seven days, this may be considered menorrhagia.

Amenorrhoea – This is the absence of menstruation. Primary amenorrhoea occurs when a young woman hasn't started menstruating by age 15, while secondary amenorrhoea is when a woman who previously had regular periods misses three or more cycles in a row.

Oligomenorrhoea – This term means infrequent periods, occurring at intervals longer than 35 days but shorter than six months.

Dysmenorrhoea – Many women experience some degree of pain during menstruation, but when cramping becomes severe and disrupts daily life, it is known as dysmenorrhoea. This can sometimes be associated with conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.

Polymenorrhoea – This is when periods occur too frequently, with cycles shorter than 21 days.

Why do menstrual abnormalities occur?

Menstrual irregularities can be triggered by a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle influences to medical conditions.

Hormonal imbalances

Hormonal fluctuations, especially in oestrogen and progesterone levels, often contribute to irregular periods. These fluctuations are normal during certain life stages, such as puberty, after childbirth, and during the approach to menopause. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects hormone levels and can cause irregular ovulation, are also common contributors to menstrual abnormalities.

Stress and lifestyle

Stress can significantly impact menstrual regularity by influencing the hypothalamus, a part of the brain responsible for hormone regulation. Additionally, drastic weight loss, excessive exercise, or eating disorders can lead to hormonal changes that affect the menstrual cycle.

Underlying health conditions

Certain health conditions can lead to irregular menstruation. Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can disrupt the balance of hormones and result in menstrual abnormalities. Similarly, conditions like endometriosis (a disorder where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it) or fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the uterus) are associated with painful or heavy periods.

When should you seek medical advice?

While some menstrual irregularities can be normal, it is essential to know when to consult a healthcare professional.

Persistent changes

If you notice prolonged irregularities, such as missed periods for several months, periods that have become excessively heavy, or cycles that are consistently shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, it may be time to seek medical advice.

Severe pain

Occasional cramps are normal, but if you experience severe or debilitating pain that disrupts daily activities, you may have an underlying condition that requires treatment, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

Fertility Concerns

If you are trying to conceive and are experiencing irregular cycles, it may indicate an ovulation issue. Conditions such as PCOS can affect ovulation, reducing the chances of conception.

What treatments are available?

Treatment for menstrual abnormalities varies depending on the underlying cause.

Medication – Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills or patches, can help regulate menstrual cycles. For heavy bleeding, doctors may prescribe medications like tranexamic acid, which helps reduce blood loss.

Lifestyle adjustments – Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding excessive physical activity can help regulate menstrual cycles.

Surgical options – In cases where fibroids or endometriosis cause significant pain or bleeding, surgical options like laparoscopic surgery may be recommended to remove abnormal tissue or growths.

Understanding menstrual abnormalities, their causes, and when to seek medical advice is key to maintaining reproductive health.