Menstruation that is irregular, sometimes scanty some months… sometimes heavy, or having severe menstrual cramps that affect daily activities. If you experience these symptoms, you should see a doctor because these may be warning signs of several serious diseases in women. The Women’s Health Center at Phyathai 2 Hospital is ready to provide advice and perform internal examinations to screen for important diseases, giving you peace of mind because if detected early… it can be treated successfully.
A good period… should come regularly every month
Generally, women ovulate every month. If the egg that month is not fertilized, the egg will degenerate causing hormone levels to change and the uterine lining of that month to shed (in the form of menstrual blood). Actually, the thickened uterine lining is meant to support the implantation of a fertilized egg. If any woman has irregular menstruation… even without having sexual intercourse, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor to find the true cause of the abnormality.
What should a normal period look like? Let’s find out!
- The menstrual cycle should not be shorter than 21 days and not longer than 35 days
- The number of days menstruating should not exceed 7 days
- The appropriate amount of menstrual flow is using no more than 5-6 sanitary pads per day
- Normal menstruation should not contain blood clots
If you have symptoms opposite or beyond those mentioned, you must always see a doctor. Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation for 3 – 6 months) and oligomenorrhea (having fewer than 6 – 8 periods per year) are common abnormal conditions.
Major causes of irregular menstruation
Irregular menstruation can be caused by many factors such as pregnancy, taking hormonal or other medications that affect the menstrual cycle, certain chronic diseases, changes in body weight, certain types of diet, stress, and aging. Doctors will take a history of symptoms to get a clearer picture, then perform a pelvic examination to assess the condition of the cervix, ovaries, and vagina.
Once the cause of irregular menstruation is identified, treatment or risk prevention of serious diseases can be done quickly and accurately. The doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication to regulate menstruation, or exercise to help women regain healthy menstrual cycles.
Dr. Thanomsiri Satit
Gynecologic Oncology Specialist
Women’s Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital