If you have ever experienced irregular menstruation, you know how frustrating and occasionally worrying it can be. In this article, we will be looking at what irregular menstruation is, what are the warning signs to look out for, and some gynecological tips for dealing with this problem.
What is irregular menstruation?
Irregular menstruation refers to a menstrual cycle that differs from what we consider "normal". A typical menstrual cycle lasts approximately 28 days, although it can vary from 21 to 35 days in some women. Regular menstruation generally involves a steady flow for 3 to 7 days.
However, irregular menstruation can manifest itself in several ways:
- Changes in duration: If your menstrual period is shorter or longer than usual, this could indicate irregularity.
- Changes in flow: An excessively light or extremely heavy menstrual flow may be a sign of irregularity.
- Variations in the interval between periods: If you experience irregular intervals between your periods, such as sometimes having two periods in one month or going several months without menstruating, this is a cause for concern.
- Unusual pain: Menstrual pain is common, but if you experience extreme or unusual pain during your period, it is also a warning sign.
Warning signs
Now that we understand what irregular menstruation is, it is important to recognize the warning signs that could indicate a more serious underlying problem:
Abrupt changes
If your periods were regular and suddenly become irregular, this could be a sign of concern.
Bleeding between periods
Breakthrough bleeding, especially if it is heavy or recurrent, should be evaluated by a health care professional.
This type of bleeding can be light or heavy, and can be uncomfortable to manage, as conventional menstrual products such as tampons or pads are not always on hand. Period panties can be a practical and comfortable solution for managing both irregular menstruation and breakthrough bleeding.
Severe pain
Extremely intense menstrual pain, known as dysmenorrhea, could be indicative of a condition such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
Persistent irregularity
If menstrual irregularity persists for several cycles, it is essential to seek the opinion of a gynecologist.
Gynecological tips for dealing with irregular menses
If you experience irregular menstruation, it's important to take steps to understand and address the situation. Here are some helpful gynecological tips:
- Keep a log: Keep a record of your menstrual cycles, noting the length, flow and any associated symptoms. This will help your doctor better assess your situation.
- Consult a health professional: If you have concerns about your irregular menstruation, scheduling a consultation with a gynecologist is essential. They can perform exams and tests to determine the underlying cause.
- Change your lifestyle: Sometimes stress, insufficient exercise or an unhealthy diet can contribute to irregular menstruation. Making lifestyle changes can help stabilize your menstrual cycles.
- Consider treatment options: Depending on the cause of the irregularity, your doctor may suggest treatments such as hormonal contraceptives, medications or surgery.