SERVICES
Menstrual Abnormalities
A normal menstrual cycle can last anywhere from 21 to 35 days, with menstrual periods typically lasting 5 to 7 days. Heavy bleeding, missed periods and severe mood swings are examples of menstrual abnormalities that can affect our physical and mental health as well as the regularity of our cycles.
Types of Menstrual Abnormalities
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Any heavy or irregular uterine bleeding is considered abnormal uterine bleeding. Abnormal bleeding can happen at any point during your monthly cycle, including during your regular menstrual period.
Amenorrhea
The absence of menstruation, often known as amenorrhea, is described as missing one or more menstrual period. Primary amenorrhea is known as the lack of menstruation in a person who has not had a period by the age of 15.
Dysmenorrhea
The medical term for painful menstrual periods is dysmenorrhea. Recurrent pain is referred to as primary dysmenorrhea, while reproductive system abnormalities cause secondary dysmenorrhea.
Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia is characterised by extremely heavy or excessive menstrual bleeding.
Oligomenorrhea
Oligomenorrhea refers to infrequent menstrual periods that occur fewer than six to eight per year.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to physical and emotional symptoms that typically occur before your monthly period is due to start.
Causes
Menstrual abnormalities can be caused by underlying medical conditions or environmental factors that affect your mental and physical health (such as stress, anxiety and depression, to name a few).
Conditions that may cause menstrual abnormalities include:
Endocrine Disorders
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are two common endocrine disorders that can affect your menstrual cycle. With hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone (thyroxine). This can lead to irregular menstrual periods or periods that are short, with a light flow. Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, refers to an underactive thyroid gland that does not produce enough thyroxine. When your thyroid is underactive, you may experience fatigue, weight gain and irregular menstrual bleeding.
Endometriosis
The lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, breaks down during your menstrual period if fertilisation has not occurred and exits the body through the vaginal canal. Endometriosis is a condition in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain, scarring, bloating and other uncomfortable symptoms. Endometriosis most commonly affects your ovaries, fallopian tubes and the tissue lining your pelvic floor.
Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous uterine growths that commonly arise during reproductive years. Consisting of muscles and fibrous tissue, these growths can be quite large, causing severe stomach pain and heavy periods. Often, smaller fibroids don’t cause any symptoms, so many women are unaware that they have them.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder characterised by the development of fluid-filled cysts in the ovaries. The condition affects hormonal balance, fertility, metabolism, overall health and appearance.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries, cervix and uterus. The condition occurs when bacteria spreads from the vagina to other pelvic organs.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatment options for menstrual abnormalities. Dr Thomas will consider your symptoms, medical history and overall health before deciding on an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment options may include:
- Hormonal Birth Control Pill
- Contraceptive Intrauterine Device (IUD)
- Endometrial Ablation
- Pain Control Medication
- Surgery