The menstrual cycle is a series of changes to your ovaries, uterus and vagina every 28 days. Some cycles are longer than others, and a few are shorter. For most women, a “normal” period is five to seven days long.
Irregular periods and menstrual irregularities aren’t serious but they may be a sign of a bigger problem. If you have changes in your menstrual cycle that last for more than a few days or you have pain during your period, talk to your gynecologist about it.
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) is an uncomfortable and often debilitating condition that affects one in five women. It’s more common during perimenopause (the time before menopause) and in the first few years after childbirth. It’s also more likely if you’re taking birth control pills.
It can be caused by a number of health conditions. Depending on the cause, it can be treated with medication, hormone therapy or even surgery.
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can relieve some of the pain and discomfort associated with menstrual disorders. However, long-term daily use of these drugs can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers so it’s important to take them only for a few days during your period.
Dietary changes that can help reduce symptoms include avoiding processed foods, cutting back on salt and caffeine and increasing the amount of calcium in your diet from low-fat dairy products, dark greens like turnip greens and calcium-fortified orange juice. You can also cut down on alcohol, nicotine and refined sugar as these can make symptoms worse.
Treatment for a menstrual disorder typically involves medications and lifestyle changes to improve your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your gynecologist will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your specific menstrual disorder.
Hormonal therapies can help control a heavy menstrual bleeding problem by reducing the hormones in your body that cause it. They can also reduce symptoms of perimenopause, such as hot flashes and dryness in your vagina.
If your heavy bleeding is causing you to miss work, school or other important activities, ask your doctor about hormonal treatments that can help you manage it. If you’re unable to control your heavy bleeding with hormonal treatments, your doctor may suggest a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and stops the flow of blood.
Abnormal bleeding is a common menstrual disorder that can affect any woman at any age, but is more common in the months before and after menopause. It can be caused by a hormonal imbalance or a condition called uterine fibroids. Surgical procedures such as hysterectomy can permanently stop heavy menstrual bleeding, but it is not recommended for most women.
The good news is that most menstrual disorders are treatable with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. A menstrual diary can be helpful in identifying your menstrual cycle changes and determining the cause of the change. A gynecologist can offer advice on diet and exercise to reduce pain, cramps and other symptoms related to the menstrual cycle.
