Period problems

Dr. Ayush PandeyMBBS,PG Diploma

January 04, 2019

March 06, 2020

Period problems
Period problems

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.



References

  1. Williams C.E. and Creighton S.M. Menstrual Disorders in Adolescents: Review of Current Practice. Horm Res Paediatr 2012;78:135–143. PMID: 23051587
  2. Rostami Dovom M et al. Menstrual Cycle Irregularity and Metabolic Disorders: A Population-Based Prospective Study. PLoS One. 2016 Dec 16;11(12):e0168402. PMID: 27992506
  3. Amanda Daley. The role of exercise in the treatment of menstrual disorders: the evidence. Br J Gen Pract. 2009 Apr 1; 59(561): 241–242. PMID: 19341553
  4. Luis Bahamondes,Moazzam AliLuis Bahamondes. Recent advances in managing and understanding menstrual disorders. F1000Prime Rep. 2015; 7: 33. PMID: 25926984
  5. Ganesh Dangal. Menstrual disorders in adolescents. journal of the Nepal Medical Association 43(153) · January 2004

Doctors for Period problems

Dr. Harshvardhan Deshpande Dr. Harshvardhan Deshpande General Physician
13 Years of Experience
Dr. Supriya Shirish Dr. Supriya Shirish General Physician
20 Years of Experience
Dr. Priyanka Rana Dr. Priyanka Rana General Physician
2 Years of Experience
Dr. Bajirao  Malode Dr. Bajirao Malode General Physician
13 Years of Experience
Consult a Doctor

Medicines for Period problems

Medicines listed below are available for Period problems. Please note that you should not take any medicines without doctor consultation. Taking any medicine without doctor's consultation can cause serious problems.