The experience of menstruation varies from woman to woman. Problems such as pain and irregularity are usually the result of natural hormone changes, and do not necessarily signify illness. Below are some of the most common menstrual problems.

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhoea)

This is most common in girls or young women. Cramp-like pains are experienced in the lower abdomen at the beginning of a period, which may be accompanied by feelings of being unwell or faint. Symptoms usually pass after a couple of days, and rarely signal an actual illness. Usually, this is caused by a 'tight' cervix (the muscle at the neck of the womb), which normally loosens after the first pregnancy, and thus relieves the problem. Sometimes painful periods are caused by wearing an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) or by menstrual cycles in which no egg is produced.

Lack of Periods (Amenorrhoea)

This condition is normal during pregnancy and the menopause. At other times, it may occur after use of the contraceptive pill, or it may be a symptom of anorexia.

Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)

Some women have naturally heavier periods than others, but unusually heavy blood loss may be caused by use of an IUD, by small, non-cancerous growths in the womb known as fibroids, an infection of the womb or uterine tubes, or a hormone imbalance.

Premenstrual Tension

This is primarily caused by an alteration in the balance of female hormones during the menstrual cycle. Physical and psychological symptoms include food and alcohol cravings, headaches, skin problems, swollen joints, particularly ankles, water retention, weakness, weight gain, decreased sex drive, depression, insomnia, irritability, poor concentration, weepiness. For a more detailed analysis of this condition, please refer to the section ‘What is Premenstrual Tension?’

Menstrual Migraines

Migraine headaches are more common during a period than at other times of the month, and are caused by ***

Self-Help for Menstrual Problems

All menstrual problems can be helped by taking regular exercise, and eating a well-balanced diet rich in iron, calcium and B vitamins. Iron supplements may be required if heavy periods is causing anaemia. Therapies such as aromatherapy, homoeopathy and reflexology can also help to alleviate menstrual problems. Iron supplements may help heavy periods.

Self-Help for Painful Periods

Painful periods will be alleviated by taking rest and relaxation during a period, and taking hot baths or putting a hot-water bottle on the lower abdomen. More exercise taken during the remainder of the menstrual cycle, and a high-fibre diet, to prevent constipation during periods, may help to alleviate pain. Hot-and-cold compresses to the lower abdomen and back may also help. Calcium and Evening primrose Oil supplements may be taken just before the start of a period.

Herbal Help for Menstrual Problems

Herbal remedies for menstrual problems include: camomile and ginger for period pain. Antispasmodics include: Cramp bark, Motherwort, and Wild Yam. Wild Yam contains phytoprogesterone, a natural form of progesterone, which may be used to restore hormone levels naturally. Uterine tonics include: False Unicorn Root, White Deadnettle, and Lady’s Mantle.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups

It is strongly advised for women to have regular gynaecological check-ups to ensure that any menstrual problems experienced are not the result of an underlying illness. Blood tests can be taken to measure iron and hormone levels. A bi-manual internal examination can detect the presence of cysts and fibroids. Regular cervical smear tests can detect early signs of cancer.

Further Reading:-

Articles:

Calcium

What is the Menopause?

What is Premenstrual Tension?

Wild Yam