Menstrual Abnormalities

For some women, the menstrual cycle comes like clockwork, beginning and ending at nearly the same time every month and with very few symptoms. On the other hand, some women experience an array of physical and emotional symptoms that disrupt their lives, including:

  • Heavy or irregular bleeding
  • Immobilising cramps
  • Sleep disruptions
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Headaches
  • Emotional distress

What are menstrual abnormalities?

Many women find that they have to plan their social lives around their periods, while others are forced to use their sick leave because they cannot get out of bed because of heavy vaginal bleeding, pain or both. Fortunately, most menstrual abnormalities are benign, meaning they're not caused by cancer and do not cause life-threatening conditions.

Some conditions that could explain your abnormal menstrual pain or bleeding include:

  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine fibroids and polyps
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
  • Painful periods (Dysmenorrhea)
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Absence of menstrual bleeding (Amenorrhea)
  • Light or irregular menstruation (Oligomenorrhea)
  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding (Menorrhagia)

How are menstrual abnormalities diagnosed?

Once you seek help, Dr Jayeshnee Moodley will perform specific tests and ask you some questions to establish a proper diagnosis. First, she will discuss your medical history and any unusual menstrual patterns you may have noticed. In fact, Dr Moodley often recommends that patients create a menstrual cycle diary before coming in for a consultation. To gather more information about your condition, Dr Moodley will perform a routine pelvic exam, a Pap smear, and an overall physical exam.

What treatment options are available?

After establishing a proper diagnosis, Dr Moodley will ensure you receive the necessary care and treatment. Although treatment options may vary from person to person, she will suggest some of the following treatment options:

  • Diet changes might include reducing foods contributing to your symptoms, such as salt, caffeine, sugar, and alcohol intake.
  • Medical treatment, including pain relievers and hormonal contraceptives.
  • Surgical treatment if the condition is considered severe and has not responded to medical treatments.

Menstrual disorders can be uncomfortable, but with proper treatment, every woman can live a happy and healthy life.