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Common Menstrual Disorders You Need To Know About!

It’s time that we talk about menstruation and discuss it as a function of a healthy female body!  Many women are still unsure about what is normal and what is unusual when it comes to their menstrual cycle. While they endure it, they do not realize when it is time to visit a doctor.Below are some common menstrual disorders that every woman should know about.

Amenorrhea:

The absence of one or more menstrual periods is known as Amenorrhea. Women with at least three missed menstrual periods consecutively or girls who haven’t started menstruation by age 15 are said to have Amenorrhea. The main symptom of Amenorrhea is a lack of menstruation. Other symptoms include milky nipple discharge, hair loss, headache, vision changes and additional facial hair.Can this be treated? Yes! Treatment options vary based on the cause of Amenorrhea. Some women may need to make lifestyle changes, such as a change in diet, regular exercise or yoga and reducing stress. Certain hormonal medicines and birth control pills can help balance hormones, trigger periods or ovulation, such as for PCOS. 

Dysmenorrhea:

Having painful periods or menstrual cramps are called Dysmenorrhea. These cramps are triggered by uterine contractions which are caused due to hormone-like substances called Prostaglandins. Primary dysmenorrhea refers to common menstrual cramps, while secondary dysmenorrhea is mild to severe pain that results from a disorder in the reproductive organs such as endometriosis, fibroids or adenomyosis. Both types are treatable.How do you know if you have dysmenorrhea? The most common symptoms are: In-Blog-01Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or abdomen for pain relief. Rest when needed. Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol. Avoid popping pain medications without doctor’s advice as these medicines may have side effects in some cases.  If you find that none of these self-care measures are providing relief, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your doctor. They will be able to provide proper guidance and may consider prescribing appropriate medication to help alleviate your pain and other symptoms effectively.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):

PMS is a group of symptoms that affects a woman’s physical and emotional health and behaviour between ovulation and a period, generally starting 5-11 days before menstruation and typically ending once menstruation begins. What does PMS feel like? PMS has a wide variety of symptoms, including mood swings, depression and irritability, fluid retention, acne, bloating, diminished libido, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, headaches and vertigo. It’s estimated that almost 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of PMS. Treatment:
  1. Antidepressants such as SSRIs successfully reduce mood symptoms.
  2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  3. Diuretics.
  4. Hormonal contraceptives.
Also Read: How To Increase Female Libido Rapidly

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):

PMDD is an endocrine disorder in which a woman has symptoms such as severe depression, irritability and tension before menstruation. PMDD symptoms are usually more severe than those that occur during PMS. In addition to physical symptoms, women with PMDD also experience a variety of mental health symptoms such as depression and suicidal thoughts.Symptoms include: In-Blog-02Can PMDD be treated? Yes! Treatments for PMDD include-  If you have irregular periods, painful cramps, excessive facial hair growth or mood swings, don’t ignore it. It may help to visit a doctor and discuss your symptoms with them. Also Read: Quick Tips: How to Get Your Period Faster and SafelyDisclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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