Menstrual Problem - Know How To Handle It!

A regular menstrual period is when you bleed for 5-6 days every month. A normal cycle is 11-13 menstrual periods every year. An irregular menstrual period is when there are less than 10 or more than 14 menstrual periods in a year.

Initially, when a teenage girl reaches puberty, the menstrual cycles are a little irregular. It takes a few months to a couple of years before the hormones are balanced and the cycles come in regular intervals.

Peri-menopausal women have extremely irregular periods, ranging from mere spotting in some months to severe bleeding and muscular cramps in the next few months. As a woman approaches menopause, there are wide fluctuations in hormones that cause the irregularity.

Other Causes Of Menstrual Irregularities-

1. Excessive weight gain or weight loss. Obesity has been found to cause menstrual irregularities.

2. Emotional stress and anxiety.

3. Persistent physical exhaustion.

4. Illness.

5. Increase in exercise. Heavy exercise and endurance regimes are known to cause missed or irregular periods.

6. Travelling, differences in temperature and weather conditions can affect periods.

7. Contraceptive pills and other birth control medications.

8. Polycystic ovarian syndrome.

9. Other medical issues with the pelvic organs.

10. Inadequate rest and sleep.

11. Indulging in too much of processed or fried food.

12. Breastfeeding can cause menstrual irregularities and regain normalcy after it has been stopped completely.

13. Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia has been known to cause menstrual irregularities.

Treatments-

1. A balanced diet which includes enough proteins, calcium and vitamins.

2. Abstinence from caffeine and alcohol.

3. Light but regular exercising.

4. Take some medication after due consultation with a doctor.

5. Abstain from smoking or consuming tobacco in any form.

6. Take vitamin and folic acid supplements.

7. Get yourself checked for blood sugar or cholesterol.

8. Maintain an optimum body weight.

9. In case of missed periods for over 2 months, do a home pregnancy check up.

10. Stay away from situations that stress you and attempt to control your anxiety. Cultivate an activity that you enjoy, be optimistic and enjoy life.