ABNORMAL MENSTRUAL PERIODS

 When that time of the month rolls around, the sudden appearance of red splotches in your underwear is normal. if you notice a different hue than usual, things could be worth a second look.

Typically, menstrual periods last for 28 days. But having periods ranging between 21-35 days is still expected. 

 some symptoms of unhealthy menstrual periods

(i) period cycle lasting less than 21 days and more than 35 days

(ii) missing more than three periods in a row

(iii) flow which is heavier or lighter than usual

(iv) period accompanied by extreme cramps, nausea and vomiting

(v) bleeding that happens between cycles, after menopause or after sex

abnormal periods are of different types;

(a) amenorrhea; where periods have stopped completely

(b) oligomenorrhea; infrequent periods

(c) dysmenorrhea; cases where you have severe or painful cramps

some causes of abnormal periods are;

- stress and lifestyle factors such as dieting, extreme loss or gain of weight, ...

- birth control pills; pills that contain progesterone may have you bleeding in between your cycle

- endometriosis; occurs when the endometrial tissue that lines the uterus starts to grow outside it . it causes abnormal pain before or after periods and painful intercourse

regular recommendations for self-care that then change the situation around are;

* regular exercising

* having enough rest

* changing tampoons and sanitary pads every 4-6 hours to avoid toxic shock syndrome

(COURTESY OF; my.clevelandclinic.org)

FAQs; what can I use for abnormal periods ?

hormone therapy, thyroid medication, surgery to remove fibroids and changes to your hormonal birth control if it is causing irregularity in your floor