Diagnosis and treatment of various menstrual disorders
A regular menstrual cycle is an indicator of a woman’s health. Changes in the cycle may signal hormonal imbalances and require a doctor’s consultation.
An irregular cycle is often perceived as a loss of control over the body.
What is menstrual disorder?
Hormonal imbalances are the most common cause of menstrual cycle irregularities.
Endometriosis, fibroids, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are frequent causes of cycle disturbances, often accompanied by pain and changes in cycle duration.
Menstrual irregularities can result from stress, overexertion, and weight fluctuations, which affect normal hormone levels in the blood.
Infections, inflammatory processes, and endocrine disorders can lead to irregular cycles due to hormonal disruptions.
Symptoms that indicate problems with the cycle
- Delay of more than 10 days or absence of menstruation.
- Scanty or heavy bleeding causing discomfort.
- Painful sensations during menstruation that affect your quality of life.
- Irregularity (cycle fluctuations of more than 10 days) or changes in cycle duration.
Diagnosis of menstrual disorders
- A gynecologist consultation includes an examination and medical history assessment.
- Hormone levels: FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin, progesterone.
- Pelvic ultrasound helps assess the condition of the uterus and ovaries.
- Additional diagnostic methods: endocrine evaluation to check hormonal balance and genetic tests to detect hereditary diseases affecting reproductive function.
Methods of treating menstrual disorders
- Hormonal medications may be recommended to restore the cycle, along with anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain.
- Treating underlying conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or infections is essential to restore the cycle and prevent complications.
- Surgical treatment is recommended in severe cases when medication is ineffective.
- Cycle recovery after childbirth or hormonal contraception takes time. During lactation, menstruation is often absent, but it resumes after weaning. After stopping hormonal contraception, the cycle typically normalizes within three months.
The impact of lifestyle on the menstrual cycle
Stress, extreme diets, and excessive physical exertion can disrupt the menstrual cycle.
A healthy lifestyle—including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and stress reduction—positively affects menstrual cycle regularity.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, E, D, and omega-3 fatty acids helps maintain hormonal balance.
Special cases: cycle disruptions at different periods of life
In teenagers, the menstrual cycle may initially be irregular, but if menstruation has not started by age 15, a doctor should be consulted.
After childbirth and during lactation, the menstrual cycle may be absent or irregular due to hormonal changes.
Early menopause can be caused by genetics, stress, illnesses, or surgeries. Treatment often includes hormone therapy.
The impact of lifestyle on the menstrual cycle
Regular visits to a gynecologist and preventive check-ups help detect cycle irregularities early and maintain reproductive health.
A healthy lifestyle and stress management support hormonal balance, which is essential for a regular menstrual cycle.
Timely treatment of gynecological and endocrine disorders helps prevent hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities.
Frequently asked questions about menstrual irregularities
When should you see a doctor for irregular menstruation?
How quickly can the menstrual cycle be restored after hormone therapy?
Do painful periods always indicate a health condition?
What tests are necessary if menstrual cycle disorders are suspected?
The list of tests depends on symptoms and doctor's recommendations, but usually includes:
- Complete blood count (CBC).
- Hormone level tests (estrogen, progesterone, LH, FSH).
- Pelvic ultrasound.
- Tests for infections if symptoms are present.
On female and male sex hormones, thyroid hormones.
Diagnosis and treatment of menstrual disorders help determine the cause and support reproductive health.
Do not ignore cycle disorders! Consult a doctor and preserve your reproductive health.