Menstrual Disorders
What Is It?
Menstrual disorders refer to a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur before or during menstruation and can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. These may include heavy bleeding, missed periods, severe pain, or distressing mood changes.
While some women experience regular, predictable cycles with minimal discomfort, others may face symptoms that disrupt daily activities and overall wellbeing.
Most menstrual concerns have clear underlying causes, and a wide range of effective treatments are available. If your symptoms feel severe, persistent, or unmanageable, seeking medical advice is essential. A thorough assessment allows for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan to help restore balance and improve comfort.session flows.
How the Menstrual Cycle Works
The menstrual cycle is a natural, monthly process involving the ovaries, uterus, and hormones. A typical cycle lasts around 28 days, although variations are common and still considered normal.
Day one begins with the onset of your bleeding
Menstrual bleeding usually lasts between 5–7 days
Hormonal changes regulate ovulation and prepare the body for potential pregnancy
Every woman’s cycle is unique, and what is “normal” can vary from person to person.
Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
Menstrual cramps are common, but severe or persistent pain may indicate dysmenorrhea. This is caused by uterine contractions triggered by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins.
Symptoms may include:
Intense lower abdominal pain
Nausea or diarrhoea
Dizziness or faintness
Medical assessment is recommended if pain interferes with normal activities.
Types of Menstrual Disorders
If menstrual symptoms interfere with your daily life, a menstrual disorder may be present. Common conditions include:
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB): Heavy, irregular, or absent periods
Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstrual cramps
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Physical and emotional symptoms before menstruation
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A more severe form of PMS affecting mood and function
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common concern that can interfere with daily life. It may involve prolonged periods, excessive blood loss, or the need to frequently change sanitary products.
Possible causes include:
Hormonal imbalance
Uterine fibroids or polyps
Thyroid disorders or clotting conditions
Certain medications or underlying medical issues
Heavy bleeding at any stage should be assessed, particularly after menopause, when any bleeding requires urgent medical evaluation.
Amenorrhea (Absent Periods)
Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation outside of normal life stages such as pregnancy or menopause.
Primary amenorrhea: No periods by age 16
Secondary amenorrhea: Periods stop for six months or more
Causes may include hormonal imbalance, stress, weight changes, excessive exercise, or underlying medical conditions.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
PMS describes a combination of physical and emotional symptoms occurring in the days leading up to menstruation. These symptoms typically resolve once the period begins.
Common symptoms include:
Physical:
Bloating
Breast tenderness
Fatigue
Headaches
Emotional:
Mood swings
Anxiety or irritability
Low mood or depression
Difficulty concentrating
Symptoms are linked to hormonal fluctuations and may vary in severity.