Don’t ignore these menstrual problems

EVERY woman’s time of the month is different, with symptoms ranging from mild cramps to debilitating pain that keeps some women in bed. But while the period is often seen as the unwelcome visitor, bringing five days of misery, there are some things that shouldn’t be happening during your time of the month.

“For example, pain is a common symptom of a monthly period, but if it interferes with your daily activities, then it becomes a warning sign that you should get it checked out and treated, as it may be a case of endometriosis even though few women have the condition but experience little pain,” gynaecologist Dr Ryan Halsall said.

Other things to watch out for include:

1. An irregular cycle

Dr Halsall said irregular periods could be a sign of underlying medical issues like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which may affect a woman’s fertility.

2. Inter-menstrual bleeding

The gynaecologist explained that not all bleeding from the vagina is your period. “If you bleed in between periods, it is not your period, so don’t treat it as such. It could be an inflammation, polyps — an overgrowth of the lining of the uterus — a sign of early menopause, fibroids, or even cervical cancer.”

3. Heavy flow

Dr Halsall said a period or its flow is considered heavy if it lasts for more than seven days or if sanitary napkins have to be changed more than every three to four hours. “Heavy periods should be evaluated, as the loss of blood can lead to anaemia; it may be a sign of fibroids, PCOS as well as cancer in older women.”

4. PMS or PMDD

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is often considered to be normal moodiness that comes as part of the menstrual cycle package, but there’s also Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), which is a severe form of PMS. Dr Halsall said either condition can lead to depression and even suicide.

— KH