Menstrual disorders

A regular menstrual cycle should include a period occurring every 24-42 days with bleeding lasting 5 – 7 days. You may experience some pain during a heavy flow at the start of your period.

Common menstrual disorders include:

  • Painful menstrual cramps (Dysmenorrhea)
    Pain affecting daily living and function, even with the use of painkillers
  • Heavy menstruation (Menorrhagia)
    Prolonged periods lasting for more than 8 – 10 days or excessive bleeding requiring a change of pads or tampons every 1 – 2 hours
  • Irregular menstrual cycle (Oligomenorrhea)
    Periods which are less than 21 days apart or more than 35 days apart
  • Absence of menstruation (Amenorrhea)
    Absence of any menstrual period by 16 years of age or absence of any period for 3 consecutive months without pregnancy

Menstrual disorders may be due to a variety of reasons, such as a hormonal imbalance, stress or an underlying gynaecological condition such as endometriosis. Depending on the cause, your gynaecologist may suggest lifestyle modifications, conduct an ultrasound, hysterectomy, or other gynaecological procedures.