Menstrual Disorders

Menstrual disorders refer to abnormalities in the menstrual cycle, including changes in frequency, flow, duration, or associated symptoms like pain or mood changes. While occasional changes in the menstrual cycle are common, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying health condition and should be evaluated.

Menstrual disorders can affect a woman’s physical health, fertility, emotional well-being, and quality of life.

Normal Menstrual Cycle

A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 to 35 days, with menstruation (bleeding) lasting 2 to 7 days. However, each woman’s cycle is unique and can change throughout her life.

Common Types of Menstrual Disorders

1. Amenorrhea (Absence of Periods)

• Primary amenorrhea: No periods by age 15
   
• Secondary amenorrhea: Periods stop for 3 or more months after previously being regular
  Causes: PCOS, thyroid disorders, extreme weight loss, stress, excessive exercise, hormonal imbalances, congenital abnormalities

2. Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods)

• Primary: Cramping without an underlying condition
   
• Secondary: Due to conditions like endometriosis or fibroids
  Symptoms: Cramps, lower back pain, nausea, headache, fatigue

3. Menorrhagia (Heavy Periods)

• Excessive bleeding lasting more than 7 days or requiring frequent pad/tampon changes
  Causes: Fibroids, hormonal imbalance, clotting disorders, polyps, thyroid issues

4. Oligomenorrhea (Infrequent Periods)

• Cycles longer than 35 days or fewer than 9 periods per year
  Causes: PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, high prolactin levels, perimenopause

5. Polymenorrhea (Frequent Periods)

• Cycles shorter than 21 days
  Causes: Hormonal imbalances, ovulatory dysfunction, perimenopause

6. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

• Emotional and physical symptoms before menstruation
  PMS symptoms: Bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness, irritability
  PMDD symptoms: Severe mood changes, depression, anger, anxiety

Causes and Risk Factors

• Hormonal imbalances (estrogen, progesterone, thyroid, prolactin)
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Thyroid disorders
• Endometriosis or adenomyosis
• Bleeding disorders
• Obesity or underweight
• Stress, travel, illness, or lifestyle changes
• Medications (e.g., blood thinners, hormonal contraceptives)
• Menopause or perimenopause

Diagnosis

Evaluation of menstrual disorders includes:

• Detailed medical and menstrual history
• Pelvic exam
• Blood tests – Hormone levels (TSH, LH, FSH, prolactin, estrogen, progesterone)
• Ultrasound – To check for fibroids, cysts, or uterine abnormalities
• Pap smear – To rule out cervical issues
• Endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy – In cases of abnormal or heavy bleeding
• Tracking menstrual cycles – Using apps or charts

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific disorder and underlying cause.

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Healthy diet and weight management
• Regular physical activity
• Stress reduction techniques (yoga, mindfulness, counseling)
• Adequate sleep and hydration

Medical Treatments:

• Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, patches, or IUDs to regulate cycles
• Pain relief: NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for cramps
• Antifibrinolytic agents: For heavy bleeding
• Iron supplements: For anemia due to blood loss
• Thyroid or prolactin management
• Medications for PCOS or endometriosis

Surgical Options:

• Myomectomy or polypectomy: Removal of fibroids or polyps
• Endometrial ablation: Destroys uterine lining to reduce bleeding
• Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus (used in severe or treatment-resistant cases)

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Missed periods for more than 3 months (not due to pregnancy)
• Periods lasting longer than 7 days
• Heavy bleeding with clots
• Severe cramps that interfere with daily activities
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Emotional symptoms before periods that affect daily life
• Signs of anemia: fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Menstrual Health?

Aster Hospitals offers comprehensive and personalized women’s health services designed to support hormonal balance, menstrual wellness, and reproductive health at every stage of life. Our experienced team of gynecologists and endocrinologists uses advanced diagnostic tools—including ultrasound, hormonal profiling, and hysteroscopy—to accurately diagnose and manage conditions such as PCOS, fibroids, and endometriosis. We provide individualized treatment plans that address both physical and emotional well-being, including support for PMS and PMDD. With a holistic approach that integrates medical care, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling, Aster Hospitals is dedicated to empowering women to take charge of their health with confidence and care.