Menstrual Disorders

The causes of menstrual disorders vary depending on the type of issue, and sometimes multiple factors are involved:

• Hormonal imbalance: Fluctuations in the levels of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Hormonal imbalances are especially common during puberty, after childbirth, and close to menopause.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Irregular periods and pain can occur as a result of infections in the female reproductive organs.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): This leads to irregular periods and is often associated with elevated levels of androgens (male hormones).
• Thyroid disorders: Menstrual irregularities is often seen among those with an overactive or underactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, respectively).
• Uterine fibroids: Heavy or prolonged periods can occur due to non-cancerous growths called polyps in the uterus.
• Endometriosis: Tissue or cells mimicking the uterine lining starts growing at abnormal places, leading to painful periods.
• Medications: Birth control pills, blood thinners, and some other medications can affect your cycle.
• Stress and lifestyle factors: Significant stress, rapid weight changes, or extreme exercise can disrupt the menstrual cycle.

The symptoms of menstrual disorders depend on the specific condition, but common signs to watch out for include:

• Unusually heavy bleeding (hourly usage of more than one tampon or napkin for several times)
• Prolonged periods (lasting over seven days).
• Bleeding between periods or after menopause.
• Missing periods for three or more months.
• Severe menstrual cramps that are not alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath due to heavy blood loss.
• Mood swings, irritability, or depression around the time of your period (especially if it severely affects your daily life).

Taking a detailed medical history and asking questions about your cycle. Depending on your symptoms, we may use the following diagnostic tools:

• Pelvic exam: This helps doctors identify any abnormalities in the reproductive organs.
• Blood tests: These can help doctors ascertain the presence of hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, or underlying health conditions.
• Ultrasound: An imaging test to closely examine the uterus, ovaries, and pelvic organs, checking for fibroids, polyps, or cysts.
• Endometrial biopsy: Sample of the uterine lining is obtained to rule out other conditions.
• Hysteroscopic surgery: A thin, lighted instrument that allows doctors to look inside the uterus is used; this test helps doctors detect abnormalities like fibroids or polyps.

The treatment for menstrual disorders depends on the cause, but here are the most common options:

• Medication: Pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce cramps and bleeding. Hormone-based treatments, such as birth control pills, can regulate or lighten periods.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): For hormone imbalance treatment, options such as progestin therapy or hormonal IUDs can help reduce the intensity of bleeding and regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Surgery: If uterine fibroids or polyps are causing heavy bleeding, surgery to remove them may be recommended. For endometriosis, laparoscopic surgery can be used to remove tissue growths.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Sometimes, simple changes like stress management, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can make a noticeable difference.
• Treatment for underlying conditions: If thyroid disease, PCOS, or another condition is the cause of your menstrual disorder, addressing that condition is the first step in restoring balance to the menstrual cycle.

Periods may be a natural part of life, but that does not mean you have to suffer in silence. If

your cycle is impacting your life, it is advisable to get it checked.

While it is not always possible to prevent menstrual disorders, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help keep your cycle regular and your symptoms manageable:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular exercise
• Appropriate stress management
• Consumption of a balanced, nutritious diet