Menstrual health is a vital aspect of a woman’s overall well-being. A regular menstrual cycle is an indicator of reproductive health, but many women experience disruptions that can affect their quality of life. Menstrual disorders encompass a range of conditions that cause irregular, painful, or excessive bleeding. Understanding these conditions, their causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for effective management.
Common Types of Menstrual Disorders
1. Irregular Periods (Oligomenorrhea & Amenorrhea)
- Oligomenorrhea: Infrequent periods occurring more than 35 days apart.
- Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation for three or more months.
Causes:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disorders
- Excessive exercise or extreme weight loss
- Stress or anxiety
Treatment:
- Lifestyle modifications (balanced diet, stress management)
- Hormonal therapy (birth control pills, progesterone supplements)
- Treatment of underlying medical conditions
2. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
- Excessive blood loss during periods (soaking through sanitary products every hour).
- Periods lasting longer than 7 days.
Causes:
- Fibroids or polyps in the uterus
- Hormonal imbalances
- Blood clotting disorders
- Endometriosis
Treatment:
- Hormonal contraceptives (IUD, birth control pills)
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
- Iron supplements (to prevent anemia)
- Surgery (if caused by fibroids or polyps)
3. Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
- Severe cramping and pelvic pain before or during menstruation.
Causes:
- Endometriosis (tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus)
- Fibroids
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- High levels of prostaglandins (hormone-like substances causing contractions)
Treatment:
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) to reduce pain and inflammation
- Hormonal birth control to regulate periods
- Heat therapy (hot water bottles or heating pads)
- Surgery in severe cases (e.g., laparoscopic removal of endometriosis tissue)
4. Absent or Skipped Periods (Hypothalamic Amenorrhea)
- Periods stop due to stress, excessive exercise, or low body weight.
Causes:
- Intense physical activity (e.g., athletes, dancers)
- Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia)
- Chronic stress
Treatment:
- Increasing caloric intake and maintaining a healthy weight
- Reducing stress through mindfulness and therapy
- Hormone therapy if needed
5. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
- Emotional and physical symptoms occurring before menstruation.
Common PMS Symptoms:
- Mood swings, anxiety, irritability
- Bloating, breast tenderness
- Fatigue, headaches
PMDD Symptoms (Severe PMS):
- Severe depression, anger, or anxiety
- Difficulty concentrating
- Physical symptoms interfering with daily life
Treatment:
- Lifestyle changes (exercise, healthy diet, hydration)
- Antidepressants (SSRIs) for severe mood disturbances
- Hormonal therapy to balance hormone fluctuations
When to Seek Medical Help?
You should consult a gynaecologist if you experience:
✅ Periods that are excessively heavy or last longer than 7 days.
✅ Severe pain that affects daily activities.
✅ Irregular cycles that are unpredictable.
✅ No periods for more than 3 months (not due to pregnancy).
✅ Severe PMS or PMDD symptoms affecting mental health.
How eGynaecologist.com Can Help
At eGynaecologist.com, our team of expert gynaecologists provides personalised consultations, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment plans for menstrual disorders. With the convenience of virtual appointments and in-person consultations, we ensure timely and professional care tailored to your needs.
📞 Call Now to Book an Appointment – Available 24/7!
💙 Your health matters – let us help you take control of your menstrual health
