Menstrual Pains, Causes and Solutions

This article provides you all you need to know about menstruation; side effects, causes of menstrual pains, solutions and how to calculate your periods.

6 Reasons Why you miss your Menstruation/Periods

There can be several reasons why a woman might miss her periods, here are some possible reasons for missed periods in women:

1. Pregnancy: The most common reason for a missed period is pregnancy. If a woman is sexually active and her period is significantly late or absent, it’s important to consider the possibility of pregnancy and take a pregnancy test.
2. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries produce too much androgen hormone, which can lead to irregular or missed periods.
3. Stress: High levels of physical or emotional stress can affect the hormonal balance in the body and cause menstrual irregularities. Stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that regulates the menstrual cycle.
4. Excessive exercise or weight loss: Intense physical activity or sudden weight loss can also impact the menstrual cycle. In some cases, low body weight or body fat percentage can lead to the cessation of periods, known as amenorrhea.
5. Thyroid disorders: Conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can affect menstrual regularity. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including the menstrual cycle.
6. Medications and medical conditions: Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives or antipsychotics, can cause changes in menstrual patterns. Additionally, medical conditions like polyps, fibroids, or reproductive disorders can contribute to missed periods.

It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing irregular or missed periods, especially if it is a persistent issue or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. They will be able to evaluate your specific situation, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

3 ways to calculate your Menstrual periods

To calculate menstrual periods, you need to have an understanding of your menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle typically starts on the first day of your period and ends on the day before your next period begins. Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating your menstrual periods:

1. Track your menstrual cycles: Start by keeping track of your menstrual cycles for several months. Note down the first day of your period and the total number of days in each cycle.
2. Determine the average length of your menstrual cycle: Add up the number of days in each cycle and divide it by the total number of cycles you tracked. For example, if your last three menstrual cycles were 28 days, 30 days, and 26 days, the average length would be (28 + 30 + 26) / 3 = 28.67 days.
3. Identify the first day of your next period: Once you have determined the average length of your menstrual cycle, you can estimate the first day of your next period. Count forward from the first day of your previous period by the number of days in your average cycle length. For example, if your average cycle length is 28.67 days, and your last period started on May 1st, you can estimate that your next period may start around May 29th.

Please note that this is a basic method for estimating your menstrual periods based on average cycle lengths. It may not be accurate for everyone, especially if you have irregular periods or other underlying health conditions. Additionally, external factors such as stress, changes in weight, travel, or illness can affect the regularity of your menstrual cycle.

10 Side effects Female experience during Menstruation

During menstruation, some women may experience a range of side effects or symptoms. It’s important to note that not all women will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. Here is a list of common side effects that some women may experience during menstruation:

1. Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea): Many women experience cramping or abdominal pain during menstruation. These cramps are caused by the contraction of the uterus as it sheds its lining.
2. Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia): Some women may experience heavier-than-normal bleeding during their periods, which can lead to the need for more frequent pad or tampon changes.
3. Fatigue and tiredness: Hormonal fluctuations and the physical process of menstruation can cause fatigue and feelings of tiredness.
4. Headaches or migraines: Some women may experience headaches or migraines before or during their periods due to hormonal changes.
5. Breast tenderness: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause breast tenderness or sensitivity.
6. Bloating: Many women experience bloating or water retention during their periods, which can result in a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the abdomen.
7. Mood changes: Hormonal fluctuations can also affect mood, leading to irritability, mood swings, or feelings of sadness or anxiety.
8. Acne breakout: Some women may experience an increase in acne or breakouts around the time of their periods due to hormonal changes.
9. Food cravings: Cravings for certain foods, especially those high in sugar or carbohydrates, are common during menstruation.
10. Digestive issues: Some women may experience digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, or an upset stomach during their periods.

It’s important to remember that if you experience severe or debilitating symptoms during your periods that significantly impact your daily life or if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide appropriate advice and treatment options to manage any menstrual-related side effects you may be experiencing.

7 Possible Factors that Contribute to Menstrual Pain (Dysmenorrhea)

Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, can have various causes. Here are some common factors that can contribute to menstrual pain:

1. Prostaglandins: During menstruation, the uterus releases chemicals called prostaglandins, which trigger uterine contractions to help shed the lining. Higher levels of prostaglandins can lead to stronger and more painful contractions, causing menstrual cramps.
2. Hormonal imbalances: Imbalances in hormone levels, particularly elevated estrogen and/or lower progesterone levels, can contribute to increased menstrual pain. These imbalances can disrupt the normal uterine muscle contractions, leading to more intense cramps.
3. Uterine abnormalities: Certain structural abnormalities of the uterus, such as fibroids (noncancerous growths), adenomyosis (when the uterine lining grows into the muscle wall), or polyps (abnormal tissue growth), can cause more severe menstrual pain.
4. Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue lining the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, typically on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic structures. This can cause intense pain during menstruation and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
5. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): PID is an infection that affects the female reproductive organs, usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. It can cause inflammation and pain during menstruation.
6. Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Some women may experience increased menstrual pain or cramping after the insertion of certain types of intrauterine devices (IUDs).
7. Stress and lifestyle factors: Stress, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to increased menstrual pain or make it feel more severe.

It’s important to note that the causes of menstrual pain can vary from person to person, and multiple factors may contribute simultaneously. If you experience severe or debilitating menstrual pain, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for an evaluation and appropriate management options.

Home remedy for menstrual pains or cramps in Females

While there is no cure-all home remedy for menstrual pains or cramps, there are several self-care measures and home remedies that may help alleviate discomfort. Here are some suggestions:

1. Heat therapy: Applying a heating pad or a warm water bottle to your lower abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce cramping. Taking a warm bath or using a hot towel can also provide relief.
2. Exercise: Engaging in light exercises, such as walking or gentle stretching, can increase blood flow and release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. However, avoid intense workouts during your period.
3. Herbal teas: Some herbal teas, such as chamomile, ginger, or peppermint, may have soothing properties that can help alleviate menstrual pain. Sipping on warm herbal tea throughout the day can provide comfort.
4. Dietary changes: Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Some women find that reducing their intake of caffeine, salt, and processed foods can also help with menstrual discomfort.
5. Relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help relax the body and relieve stress, which may help reduce menstrual pain.
6. Over-the-counter pain relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can be effective in relieving menstrual cramps. However, it’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so it’s essential to find what methods provide you with the most relief. If your menstrual pain is severe, persistent, or significantly interferes with your daily activities, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and guidance on managing your symptoms.