Understanding your-menstrual-cycle and body system
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This Slide Show Presentation is Pastor Derashay Zorn for LADY CARE COACHING. Learn how to manage your body and take care of yourself as a lady during menstrual cycle.
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Understanding your-menstrual-cycle and body system
- 1. Me and My Period
- 2. WHAT IS A MENSTRUAL CYCLE
- 3. What is a Menstrual Cycle What is menstruation? Menstruation (men-STRAY-shuhn) is a woman's monthly bleeding. Most menstrual periods last from 3 to 5 days.
- 4. What is a Menstrual Cycle What is the menstrual cycle? When periods (menstruations) come regularly, this is called the menstrual cycle. Having regular menstrual cycles is a sign that important parts of your body are working normally. The menstrual cycle provides important body chemicals, called hormones, to keep you healthy. It also prepares your body for pregnancy each month. A cycle is counted from the first day of 1 period to the first day of the next period. The average menstrual cycle is 28 days long. Cycles can range anywhere from 21 to 35 days in adults and from 21 to 45 days in young teens.
- 6. Common menstrual problems • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – hormonal events before a period can trigger a range of side effects in women at risk, including fluid retention, headaches, fatigue and irritability. • Dysmenorrhoea – or painful periods. It is thought that the uterus is prompted by certain hormones to squeeze harder than necessary to dislodge its lining. • Menorrhagia – or heavy menstrual flow. • Amenorrhoea – or absence of menstrual periods. This is considered abnormal, except during pre-puberty, pregnancy, lactation and menopause.
- 7. Common menstrual problems Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) • Diagnosis- No specific diagnostic test for PMS. Diagnosis relies on an examination of the woman’s medical history and description of the symptoms. • Risk Factors are weight, stress and smoking.
- 8. Common menstrual problems PMS Management There is no cure for PMS, the symptoms can be successfully managed. • lifestyle changes, • dietary modifications, • supplements, hormone treatments and other medications.
- 9. Common menstrual problems Lifestyle changes and PMS Recommended lifestyle changes include: • Exercise regularly • Don’t smoke. • Cut back on caffeine two weeks before menstruation. • Make sure you get enough sleep. • Manage your stress in whatever way works for you
- 10. Common menstrual problems Dietary changes for PMS Women experiencing PMS symptoms may crave high-fat and high-sugar foods like chocolate, biscuits and ice cream, and may consequently increase their food intake significantly. You can manage your weight and help reduce your PMS symptoms by making a few dietary changes. You might like to try: • eating smaller meals more often • reducing your intake of salty foods • including more fresh fruits and vegetables, and wholegrain foods in your daily diet • boosting your dairy food intake • not keeping high-fat and high-sugar foods in the house • making sure you always have tasty and healthy snack alternatives on hand
- 11. Common menstrual problems Supplements for PMS • Check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement, including herbal supplements, and make sure that you follow instructions on dosage. Medication and hormone treatments for PMS • A range of medications and hormone treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms.
- 12. Common menstrual problems Dysmenorrhoea – or painful periods. It is thought that the uterus is prompted by certain hormones to squeeze harder than necessary to dislodge its lining.
- 13. Common menstrual problems Dysmenorrhoea Symptoms of dysmenorrhoea can include: • pain low in the abdomen that can spread to the lower back and legs • pain that is gripping or experienced as a constant ache, or a combination of both. Typically: • the pain starts when the period starts, or earlier • the first 24 hours is the most painful • clots are passed in the menstrual blood. • Dysmenorrhoea can be associated with: • headaches • nausea and vomiting • digestive problems, such as diarrhoea or constipation • fainting • premenstrual symptoms, such as tender breasts and a swollen abdomen, which may continue throughout the period • pain continuing after the first 24 hours (this tends to subside after two or three days).
- 14. Common menstrual problems Dysmenorrhoea Treatment options can include: • bed rest during the first day or so of the period • applying heat, such as a hot water bottle, to the abdomen • pain-relieving medication • anti-inflammatory medication • regular exercise and attention to overall physical fitness • relaxation techniques • the oral combined contraceptive pill
- 15. Common menstrual problems Menorrhagia/ abnormal uterine bleeding – or heavy menstrual flow.
- 16. Common menstrual problems Symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding Symptoms include: • heavy (more than 80 ml) or prolonged (more than eight days) blood loss during the menstrual period. • bleeding or spotting between periods (intermenstrual bleeding) • cramping and pain in the lower abdomen • fatigue.
- 17. Common menstrual problems Causes of abnormal uterine bleeding While in many cases, it is not possible to determine the exact cause, there are a number of reasons a woman may experience abnormal uterine bleeding. Some of the known causes of abnormal uterine bleeding include: spontaneous miscarriage in pregnancy • ectopic pregnancy • hormonal disorders • ovulatory dysfunction – • endometriosis • infection • medication • intrauterine device (IUD) • hormonal contraceptives • hormone replacement therapy • fibroids • polyps • bleeding disorders • cancer
- 18. Common menstrual problems Diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding The diagnosis and identification of potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding involves a number of tests including: general examination • medical history • menstrual history • physical examination • pap test • blood tests • vaginal ultrasound • endometrial biopsy.
- 19. Common menstrual problems Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding Treatment will depend on the cause, but may include: • medication • dilatation and curettage (D&C) • change of contraception • surgery • treatment of underlying disorders • hysterectomy
- 20. Common menstrual problems Amenorrhoea – or absence of menstrual periods. This is considered abnormal, except during pre-puberty, pregnancy, lactation and menopause.
- 21. Common menstrual problems Causes of amenorrhoea A range of factors can affect how the hypothalamus works and cause amenorrhoea, including: • emotional stress • losing weight • exercising too much • certain medication used to treat mental health conditions • disorders of the endocrine system, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland). Some women are more at risk of amenorrhoea caused by stress and losing weight.
- 22. Common menstrual problems Diagnosis of amenorrhoea For a doctor to diagnose amenorrhoea, all other possible causes, such as certain reproductive disorders, need to be eliminated first. Tests can include: • pregnancy tests • physical examination • medical history • hormone tests • other scans, which can include CT scans and ultrasounds of the reproductive system.
- 23. Common menstrual problems Treatment for amenorrhoea Treatment for amenorrhoea depends on the cause.
- 24. HOW CAN SOMEONE MANAGE HER HEALTH AND BODY DURING THE PERIOD?
- 25. Sanitary protection • Pads • Tampons • Menstrual cups
- 26. Sanitary Protection Sanitary pads • Sanitary pads come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses to suit different flow types and situations (e.g. night time pads). • Pads generally need to be changed every three to four hours. • Regularly changing sanitary pad helps eliminate odors. As extend use of a product can cause orders to manifest when a product is soiled. • They should be wrapped and disposed of in a bin. • They cannot be flushed down the toilet as they will block the plumbing.
- 27. Sanitary Protection Tampons • Tampons are preferred by many women because they are comfortable to wear and convenient to use. • Tampons come in various sizes to suit different menstrual flows. Women should choose the minimum possible absorbency to suit their flow. • Tampons need to be changed every three to four hours. • Regularly changing tampon helps eliminate odors. As extend use of a product can cause orders to manifest when a product is soiled.
- 28. Sanitary Protection Menstrual cups • Menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone and are worn inside the vagina to catch menstrual fluid. • Because they sit inside the vagina they can be worn when participating in activities such as swimming
- 29. WHY PARENTS FAILED IN TEACHING THEIR GIRLS ABOUT THEIR PERIOD?
- 30. Why Parents failed in Teaching their girls about their Period? • Fear • Discomfort • Lack of knowledge
- 31. Why Parents failed in Teaching their girls about their Period? Tips for Talking • Look for good books and videos or DVDs that can help foster a more comfortable and educational conversation. • Speak to your family doctor about ways to talk about menstruation and puberty. • Brush up on the facts of menstruation and have information readily available for your child to look at or read. • If there's a question that you don’t know the answer to, let your child know you will find out the information. • Coordinate your conversations with the health lessons and sex education your child receives in school. Ask your child's teacher about his or her plans and for any advice.
- 32. Why Parents failed in Teaching their girls about their Period? Tips for Talking • To break the ice, try asking your child some questions that will help you both ease into discussions. Ask what kind of questions he or she has while you walk down the feminine- hygiene products aisle at your grocery store or while you watch a commercial for pain relievers advertised to alleviate symptoms of PMS. • If you hear your child mention something related to getting a period, spur a conversation by asking where the information came from. Questions can be a great way to set the record straight on any misconceptions kids might have. • Before you take your preteen daughter for a routine checkup, let her know that the doctor may ask if she's gotten her period yet. You can then ask if she has any concerns or questions about getting her first period. • It's important to tell kids the truth about menstruation in an age-appropriate way and to be comfortable with the accuracy of that information. Don't be put off by their questions — they're probably the same questions you had at that age, and now you can answer them.
- 34. Common Questions About Periods • Do girls have their periods for the rest of their lives? No, a woman stops having her period usually between the ages of 45 and 51, which means she will no longer be able to become pregnant • How long does a period last and how much blood is there? It varies for each girl, but some have their period for 3 days and others have it for a week. Periods can be light, moderate, or heavy, and there can be a total of 2-4 tablespoons (30-59 milliliters) of blood. And this can vary from period to period in the same girl. • Are pads or tampons better? In choosing between the two, what matters is a girl's physical and emotional comfort.
- 35. Common Questions About Periods • Do girls have to stop playing sports or swimming while they have their periods? Girls should understand they can do everything they normally would do — as long as they're comfortable. For example, girls may choose to wear a tampon so they can continue to swim while menstruating.
- 36. PMS Diary • PMS Dairy can be very useful for tracking your period, moods, food intake, cravings, etc. • Recording your period can give doctors more insight on your activities during your period to aid them in providing medical advice and diagnoses. • Record your food choices in your PMS diary – charting your food intake may help you become more aware of high-fat and high-sugar snacking. • Record you mood – charting your mood can assist with diagnoses of PMS
Notas del editor
- Just want to say some few things concerning the Lady Care Coaching Workshop coming up Topic: Me and My period: How to manage your menstrual circle and Body system Even as you speak on it, I really want the written sheet, because I want to use it for young girls, to print and photocopy for many. Some of these questions I will like u to address. What is the cause of painful menstruation? What are the signs of abnormal menstrual cycle? How can someone manage Her health and body during the period? What if the period is heavy and the blood flow is much, what can be done? Discussion Question: Why Parents failed in Teaching their girls about their Period?
- Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods) While some women experience only mild discomfort when they have their period other women suffer from severe, incapacitating pain. Women might get pain a few days before their period or during the first few days of bleeding. The pain can be a cramping-type pain, caused by the contraction of the uterine muscles, or a heavy dragging pain in the pelvic region. Pain in the legs and back, headaches, nausea, constipation or diarrhea are also common. Period pain can be the result of prostaglandins, the substance that causes the uterus to contract during a period. Severe period pain might also signal the presence of a condition such as pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis. A woman should see her doctor if she experiences period pain that is unusual for her. Popular remedies for mild pain include analgesics (aspirin or paracetamol), herbal medicines, warm baths, heat packs, gentle exercise and rest. Treatment for more severe period pain includes the use of antiprostaglandins (eg. Nurofen, Ponstan) and oral contraceptives. If women do not find relief with these treatments they should consult their doctor.
- Common menstrual problems Some of the more common menstrual problems include: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – hormonal events before a period can trigger a range of side effects in women at risk, including fluid retention, headaches, fatigue and irritability. Treatment options include exercise and dietary changes. Dysmenorrhoea – or painful periods. It is thought that the uterus is prompted by certain hormones to squeeze harder than necessary to dislodge its lining. Treatment options include pain-relieving medication and the oral contraceptive pill. Menorrhagia – or heavy menstrual flow. If left untreated, this can cause anaemia. Treatment options include oral contraceptives and a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) to regulate the flow. Amenorrhoea – or absence of menstrual periods. This is considered abnormal, except during pre-puberty, pregnancy, lactation and menopause. Possible causes include low or high body weight and excessive exercise.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – hormonal events before a period can trigger a range of side effects in women at risk, including fluid retention, headaches, fatigue and irritability. Treatment options include exercise and dietary changes. Causes of PMS Incorrect theories about the causes of PMS have included an estrogen excess, progestogen deficiency, vitamin B6 deficiency, abnormal glucose metabolism and electrolyte imbalances. There are new studies providing a better understanding of why PMS occurs, but the causes of it are still unknown. If you want to find out more about this, you should consult your doctor. Risk factors for PMS include weight, stress and smoking. Women with a BMI higher than 30 are three times more likely to have PMS than those with a normal weight. Smokers are twice as likely to have severe PMS symptoms. Diagnosis of PMS There are no specific diagnostic tests for PMS, as hormone levels are usually within the normal range. Diagnosis relies on an examination of the woman’s medical history and description of the symptoms. In most cases, you can identify if you have PMS by keeping a symptoms diary. Include the details of your menstrual cycle – for example, the first and last days of your menstrual period – and any ovulation symptoms. Keep this diary for at least two menstrual cycles. If the symptoms don’t resolve at menstruation, other causes may be suspected and would need to be investigated. If you are not sure whether you are suffering from PMS, or need help understanding your symptoms, you should visit your doctor.
- MS management While there is no cure for PMS, the symptoms can be successfully managed with lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, supplements, hormone treatments and other medications. You may have to experiment to find the balance of treatments that works best for you. It’s a good idea to continue your PMS diary and record any symptoms while you try out these therapies and treatments. Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional during this trial period. Lifestyle changes and PMS Recommended lifestyle changes include: Exercise regularly, at least three times a week – try to exercise daily as the increased endorphins will help. Don’t smoke. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol in the two weeks before menstruation. Make sure you get enough sleep. Manage your stress in whatever way works for you – for example, counselling, tai chi or meditation, walking or gardening. Dietary changes for PMS Women experiencing PMS symptoms may crave high-fat and high-sugar foods like chocolate, biscuits and ice cream, and may consequently increase their food intake significantly. You can manage your weight and help reduce your PMS symptoms by making a few dietary changes. You might like to try: eating smaller meals more often – for example, have six ‘mini-meals’ instead of three main meals reducing your intake of salty foods including more fresh fruits and vegetables, and wholegrain foods in your daily diet boosting your dairy food intake, but switching to reduced fat or non-fat versions not keeping high-fat and high-sugar foods in the house making sure you always have tasty and healthy snack alternatives on hand recording your food choices in your PMS diary – charting your food intake may help you become more aware of high-fat and high-sugar snacking. Supplements for PMS Check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement, including herbal supplements, and make sure that you follow instructions on dosage. Complementary therapies should be viewed as a medicine and should be treated with the same respect. Therapies that can help reduce PMS symptoms include calcium and vitex castus agnus.
- PMS management While there is no cure for PMS, the symptoms can be successfully managed with lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, supplements, hormone treatments and other medications. You may have to experiment to find the balance of treatments that works best for you. It’s a good idea to continue your PMS diary and record any symptoms while you try out these therapies and treatments. Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional during this trial period. Lifestyle changes and PMS Recommended lifestyle changes include: Exercise regularly, at least three times a week – try to exercise daily as the increased endorphins will help. Don’t smoke. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol in the two weeks before menstruation. Make sure you get enough sleep. Manage your stress in whatever way works for you – for example, counselling, tai chi or meditation, walking or gardening. Dietary changes for PMS Women experiencing PMS symptoms may crave high-fat and high-sugar foods like chocolate, biscuits and ice cream, and may consequently increase their food intake significantly. You can manage your weight and help reduce your PMS symptoms by making a few dietary changes. You might like to try: eating smaller meals more often – for example, have six ‘mini-meals’ instead of three main meals reducing your intake of salty foods including more fresh fruits and vegetables, and wholegrain foods in your daily diet boosting your dairy food intake, but switching to reduced fat or non-fat versions not keeping high-fat and high-sugar foods in the house making sure you always have tasty and healthy snack alternatives on hand recording your food choices in your PMS diary – charting your food intake may help you become more aware of high-fat and high-sugar snacking. Supplements for PMS Check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement, including herbal supplements, and make sure that you follow instructions on dosage. Complementary therapies should be viewed as a medicine and should be treated with the same respect. Therapies that can help reduce PMS symptoms include calcium and vitex castus agnus.
- PMS management While there is no cure for PMS, the symptoms can be successfully managed with lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, supplements, hormone treatments and other medications. You may have to experiment to find the balance of treatments that works best for you. It’s a good idea to continue your PMS diary and record any symptoms while you try out these therapies and treatments. Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional during this trial period. Lifestyle changes and PMS Recommended lifestyle changes include: Exercise regularly, at least three times a week – try to exercise daily as the increased endorphins will help. Don’t smoke. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol in the two weeks before menstruation. Make sure you get enough sleep. Manage your stress in whatever way works for you – for example, counselling, tai chi or meditation, walking or gardening. Dietary changes for PMS Women experiencing PMS symptoms may crave high-fat and high-sugar foods like chocolate, biscuits and ice cream, and may consequently increase their food intake significantly. You can manage your weight and help reduce your PMS symptoms by making a few dietary changes. You might like to try: eating smaller meals more often – for example, have six ‘mini-meals’ instead of three main meals reducing your intake of salty foods including more fresh fruits and vegetables, and wholegrain foods in your daily diet boosting your dairy food intake, but switching to reduced fat or non-fat versions not keeping high-fat and high-sugar foods in the house making sure you always have tasty and healthy snack alternatives on hand recording your food choices in your PMS diary – charting your food intake may help you become more aware of high-fat and high-sugar snacking. Supplements for PMS Check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement, including herbal supplements, and make sure that you follow instructions on dosage. Complementary therapies should be viewed as a medicine and should be treated with the same respect. Therapies that can help reduce PMS symptoms include calcium and vitex castus agnus.
- PMS management Supplements for PMS Check with your doctor before taking any type of supplement, including herbal supplements, and make sure that you follow instructions on dosage. Complementary therapies should be viewed as a medicine and should be treated with the same respect. Therapies that can help reduce PMS symptoms include calcium and vitex castus agnus. Other dietary and vitamin supplements, such as evening primrose oil, ginkgo biloba extract, black cohosh, dandelion and essential fatty acids, have not been shown to have any effect on symptoms of PMS. Medication and hormone treatments for PMS A range of medications and hormone treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms. There are different types available. Treatments that have been proven to relieve symptoms include: SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine and escitalopian – these medications are mood stabilisers and antidepressants, which can improve PMS symptoms significantly. They may be prescribed just in the menstrual phase and be as effectively as taken continuously. alprazolam – considered a second-line treatment for PMS. Due to its addictive potential, it is used only in the last two weeks of the menstrual cycle agents that suppress ovulation – including GnRH analogues and danazol oral contraceptive pill containing drospirenone and ethinyl oestradiol – sold in Australia as Yaz. Treatments that might improve symptoms include: other oral contraceptive pills spironolactone, which has not been shown to be consistently of any advantage, but may help if there is fluid retention. Treatments that have not been proven to relieve symptoms include progesterone and progestin (such as intrauterine devices (IUD), intrauterine devices (Implanon) and Depo-Provera (injection). These have not been found to be any better than a placebo (dummy pill) for relieving PMS symptoms. Complementary medicine and PMS Many women feel they benefit from a variety of natural therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, which can use relaxation techniques to help relieve symptoms, and complementary therapies such as vitex castus agnus. If you would like to use complementary therapies, it is important to seek advice from a qualified professional and to let your doctor know about any herbal or complementary therapies you are using. Many of these treatments can have side effects, so make sure you are well informed about them before you and your doctor decide on your treatment.
- Common menstrual problems Some of the more common menstrual problems include: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – hormonal events before a period can trigger a range of side effects in women at risk, including fluid retention, headaches, fatigue and irritability. Treatment options include exercise and dietary changes. Dysmenorrhoea – or painful periods. It is thought that the uterus is prompted by certain hormones to squeeze harder than necessary to dislodge its lining. Treatment options include pain-relieving medication and the oral contraceptive pill. Menorrhagia – or heavy menstrual flow. If left untreated, this can cause anaemia. Treatment options include oral contraceptives and a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) to regulate the flow. Amenorrhoea – or absence of menstrual periods. This is considered abnormal, except during pre-puberty, pregnancy, lactation and menopause. Possible causes include low or high body weight and excessive exercise.
- Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods) While some women experience only mild discomfort when they have their period other women suffer from severe, incapacitating pain. Women might get pain a few days before their period or during the first few days of bleeding. The pain can be a cramping-type pain, caused by the contraction of the uterine muscles, or a heavy dragging pain in the pelvic region. Pain in the legs and back, headaches, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea are also common. Period pain can be the result of prostaglandins, the substance that causes the uterus to contract during a period. Severe period pain might also signal the presence of a condition such as pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis. A woman should see her doctor if she experiences period pain that is unusual for her. Popular remedies for mild pain include analgesics (aspirin or paracetamol), herbal medicines, warm baths, heat packs, gentle exercise and rest. Treatment for more severe period pain includes the use of antiprostaglandins (eg. Nurofen, Ponstan) and oral contraceptives. If women do not find relief with these treatments they should consult their doctor. Dysmenorrhoea Symptoms of dysmenorrhoea can include: pain low in the abdomen that can spread to the lower back and legs pain that is gripping or experienced as a constant ache, or a combination of both. Typically: the pain starts when the period starts, or earlier the first 24 hours is the most painful clots are passed in the menstrual blood. Dysmenorrhoea can be associated with: headaches nausea and vomiting digestive problems, such as diarrhoea or constipation fainting premenstrual symptoms, such as tender breasts and a swollen abdomen, which may continue throughout the period pain continuing after the first 24 hours (this tends to subside after two or three days).
- Treatment for primary dysmenorrhoea Women with dysmenorrhoea need a thorough medical examination to make sure their period pain is not caused by certain reproductive disorders such as endometriosis or fibroids. Treatment options can include: bed rest during the first day or so of the period applying heat, such as a hot water bottle, to the abdomen pain-relieving medication, such as paracetamol medication that inhibits prostaglandins, such as ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medication regular exercise and attention to overall physical fitness relaxation techniques the oral combined contraceptive pill, which usually reduces period pain.
- Common menstrual problems Menorrhagia – or heavy menstrual flow. If left untreated, this can cause anaemia. Treatment options include oral contraceptives and a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) to regulate the flow. Abnormal uterine bleeding is excessive menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods. In most cases, the cause is not known. Known causes of abnormal uterine bleeding include polyps, fibroids, endometriosis, medication, infection and some forms of contraception. Treatment can include medications, or dilatation and curettage (D&C) to remove the uterine lining.
- Symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding Symptoms include: heavy (more than 80 ml) or prolonged (more than eight days) blood loss during the menstrual period. If you think you may be experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, you may find it useful to keep a pictorial blood loss assessment chart bleeding or spotting between periods (intermenstrual bleeding) cramping and pain in the lower abdomen fatigue.
- Causes of abnormal uterine bleeding While in many cases, it is not possible to determine the exact cause, there are a number of reasons a woman may experience abnormal uterine bleeding. Some of the known causes of abnormal uterine bleeding include: spontaneous miscarriage in pregnancy ectopic pregnancy – lodgement of the fertilised egg in the slender fallopian tube instead of the uterine lining hormonal disorders – conditions such as hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroxine), polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and hyperprolactinemia can disrupt the menstrual cycle ovulatory dysfunction – this is when the ovary does not release an egg each month. Most commonly, this occurs at either end of a woman’s reproductive years, either during puberty or at menopause endometriosis – the cells lining the uterus (endometrial cells) can travel to, attach and grow elsewhere in the body, most commonly within the peritoneal cavity, (including on the outside of the uterus or on the ovarian surface) infection – including chlamydia or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) medication – may include anticoagulants, which hinder the clotting ability of the blood, phenothiazides, which are antipsychotic tranquilisers, and tricyclic antidepressants, which affect serotonin uptake intrauterine device (IUD) – is a contraceptive device that acts as a foreign body inside the uterus and prompts heavier periods hormonal contraceptives – may include the combined oral contraceptive pill, injections of a long-acting synthetic progesterone, a rod containing slow-release progesterone (implanted in the upper arm), or intrauterine system devices (progesterone-releasing contraceptive devices inserted into the uterus). The progesterone-only treatments commonly cause spotting hormone replacement therapy – used as a treatment for menopausal symptoms fibroids – benign tumours that develop inside the uterus polyps – small, stalk-like projections that grow out of the uterus lining (endometrium). Polyps may be associated with fibroids bleeding disorders – may include leukemia and Von Willebrand’s disease cancer – most uterine cancers develop in the lining of the uterus, though some cancers grow in the muscle layers of the uterus. They are most common after menopause.
- Diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding The diagnosis and identification of potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding involves a number of tests including: general examination medical history menstrual history physical examination pap test blood tests vaginal ultrasound endometrial biopsy.
- Treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding Treatment will depend on the cause, but may include: medication – such as prostaglandin inhibitors, hormone replacement therapy or antibiotics dilatation and curettage (D&C) – involving dilation and gentle scraping of the cervix and the lining of the uterus change of contraception – it may be necessary to explore methods of contraception other than the IUD or hormones surgery – to remove tumours, polyps or fibroids or to treat ectopic pregnancy treatment of underlying disorders – such as hypothyroidism or a bleeding disorder hysterectomy – the removal of the entire uterus is a drastic last resort, generally only considered in cases where treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding, unless serious disease, such as cancer, is also present.
- Common menstrual problems Some of the more common menstrual problems include: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – hormonal events before a period can trigger a range of side effects in women at risk, including fluid retention, headaches, fatigue and irritability. Treatment options include exercise and dietary changes. Dysmenorrhoea – or painful periods. It is thought that the uterus is prompted by certain hormones to squeeze harder than necessary to dislodge its lining. Treatment options include pain-relieving medication and the oral contraceptive pill. Menorrhagia – or heavy menstrual flow. If left untreated, this can cause anaemia. Treatment options include oral contraceptives and a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) to regulate the flow. Amenorrhoea – or absence of menstrual periods. This is considered abnormal, except during pre-puberty, pregnancy, lactation and menopause. Possible causes include low or high body weight and excessive exercise.
- Causes of amenorrhoea A range of factors can affect how the hypothalamus works and cause amenorrhoea, including: emotional stress losing weight exercising too much certain medication used to treat mental health conditions disorders of the endocrine system, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland).
- Diagnosis of amenorrhoea For a doctor to diagnose amenorrhoea, all other possible causes, such as certain reproductive disorders, need to be eliminated first. Tests can include: pregnancy tests, which can be either a urine or blood test physical examination to check overall health and see if other sexual characteristics, such as breast growth and pubic hair, have developed medical history, including gynecological history and contraceptive methods used hormone tests to check how the hypothalamus, pituitary glands and ovaries are working other scans, which can include CT scans and ultrasounds of the reproductive system.
- Treatment for amenorrhoea Treatment for amenorrhoea depends on the cause. If the cause is losing a lot of weight or exercising too much, treatment will include encouraging the woman to have a healthier body weight. Other treatment options can include losing weight (if overweight) and managing the underlying disorder. Hormone therapy (HT), such as the combined oral contraceptive pill, will usually cause regular periods to return, but will not treat any underlying cause
- Pads Sanitary pads come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses to suit different flow types and situations (e.g. night time pads). Pads generally need to be changed every three to four hours and should be wrapped and disposed of in a bin. They cannot be flushed down the toilet as they will block the plumbing. Tampons Tampons are preferred by many women because they are comfortable to wear and convenient to use. Tampons come in various sizes to suit different menstrual flows. Women should choose the minimum possible absorbency to suit their flow. Tampons need to be changed every three to four hours. Parents of girls new to using tampons may wish to remind their daughters to change their tampon regularly. Like pads, tampons should be disposed of in a bin rather than flushed down the toilet. This is particularly important in rural areas in Australia that often use septic systems. Some women worry that a tampon will get 'lost'. This is not physically possible because the entrance from the cervix to the uterus (the cervical opening or os) is so small that a tampon cannot enter it. Tampons do occasionally become 'stuck'. If this happens, adopting a squatting position or sitting in a warm bath can assist in removing the tampon. If this fails a doctor can remove it. Young women (and parents of young women) also ask whether tampons can be used by virgins. The answer is 'yes' because tampons do not break the hymen as it already has a small gap in it which allows the menstrual fluid to flow out. Often a girl's hymen is no longer intact anyway by the time she gets her first period as a result of normal physical activity. To make tampon insertion easier, first time tampon users may wish to try a mini tampon, use some lubricant or saliva on the tampon or use a tampon with an applicator. Once a tampon has been inserted correctly a woman should not be able to feel it. Menstrual cups Menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone and are worn inside the vagina to catch menstrual fluid. Because they sit inside the vagina they can be worn when participating in activities such as swimming but cannot be worn when engaging in penetrative sex. In Australia they are classified as a medical device and must therefore be approved for sale by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)(11).
- Pads Sanitary pads come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses to suit different flow types and situations (e.g. night time pads). Pads generally need to be changed every three to four hours and should be wrapped and disposed of in a bin. They cannot be flushed down the toilet as they will block the plumbing. Tampons Tampons are preferred by many women because they are comfortable to wear and convenient to use. Tampons come in various sizes to suit different menstrual flows. Women should choose the minimum possible absorbency to suit their flow. Tampons need to be changed every three to four hours. Parents of girls new to using tampons may wish to remind their daughters to change their tampon regularly. Like pads, tampons should be disposed of in a bin rather than flushed down the toilet. This is particularly important in rural areas in Australia that often use septic systems. Some women worry that a tampon will get 'lost'. This is not physically possible because the entrance from the cervix to the uterus (the cervical opening or os) is so small that a tampon cannot enter it. Tampons do occasionally become 'stuck'. If this happens, adopting a squatting position or sitting in a warm bath can assist in removing the tampon. If this fails a doctor can remove it. Young women (and parents of young women) also ask whether tampons can be used by virgins. The answer is 'yes' because tampons do not break the hymen as it already has a small gap in it which allows the menstrual fluid to flow out. Often a girl's hymen is no longer intact anyway by the time she gets her first period as a result of normal physical activity. To make tampon insertion easier, first time tampon users may wish to try a mini tampon, use some lubricant or saliva on the tampon or use a tampon with an applicator. Once a tampon has been inserted correctly a woman should not be able to feel it. Menstrual cups Menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone and are worn inside the vagina to catch menstrual fluid. Because they sit inside the vagina they can be worn when participating in activities such as swimming but cannot be worn when engaging in penetrative sex. In Australia they are classified as a medical device and must therefore be approved for sale by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)(11).
- Pads Sanitary pads come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses to suit different flow types and situations (e.g. night time pads). Pads generally need to be changed every three to four hours and should be wrapped and disposed of in a bin. They cannot be flushed down the toilet as they will block the plumbing. Tampons Tampons are preferred by many women because they are comfortable to wear and convenient to use. Tampons come in various sizes to suit different menstrual flows. Women should choose the minimum possible absorbency to suit their flow. Tampons need to be changed every three to four hours. Parents of girls new to using tampons may wish to remind their daughters to change their tampon regularly. Like pads, tampons should be disposed of in a bin rather than flushed down the toilet. Some women worry that a tampon will get 'lost'. This is not physically possible because the entrance from the cervix to the uterus (the cervical opening or os) is so small that a tampon cannot enter it. Tampons do occasionally become 'stuck'. If this happens, adopting a squatting position or sitting in a warm bath can assist in removing the tampon. If this fails a doctor can remove it. Young women (and parents of young women) also ask whether tampons can be used by virgins. The answer is 'yes' because tampons do not break the hymen as it already has a small gap in it which allows the menstrual fluid to flow out. Often a girl's hymen is no longer intact anyway by the time she gets her first period as a result of normal physical activity. To make tampon insertion easier, first time tampon users may wish to try a mini tampon, use some lubricant or saliva on the tampon or use a tampon with an applicator. Once a tampon has been inserted correctly a woman should not be able to feel it. Menstrual cups Menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone and are worn inside the vagina to catch menstrual fluid. Because they sit inside the vagina they can be worn when participating in activities such as swimming but cannot be worn when engaging in penetrative sex. In Australia they are classified as a medical device and must therefore be approved for sale by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)(11).
- Pads Sanitary pads come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses to suit different flow types and situations (e.g. night time pads). Pads generally need to be changed every three to four hours and should be wrapped and disposed of in a bin. They cannot be flushed down the toilet as they will block the plumbing. Tampons Tampons are preferred by many women because they are comfortable to wear and convenient to use. Tampons come in various sizes to suit different menstrual flows. Women should choose the minimum possible absorbency to suit their flow. Tampons need to be changed every three to four hours. Parents of girls new to using tampons may wish to remind their daughters to change their tampon regularly. Like pads, tampons should be disposed of in a bin rather than flushed down the toilet. This is particularly important in rural areas in Australia that often use septic systems. Some women worry that a tampon will get 'lost'. This is not physically possible because the entrance from the cervix to the uterus (the cervical opening or os) is so small that a tampon cannot enter it. Tampons do occasionally become 'stuck'. If this happens, adopting a squatting position or sitting in a warm bath can assist in removing the tampon. If this fails a doctor can remove it. Young women (and parents of young women) also ask whether tampons can be used by virgins. The answer is 'yes' because tampons do not break the hymen as it already has a small gap in it which allows the menstrual fluid to flow out. Often a girl's hymen is no longer intact anyway by the time she gets her first period as a result of normal physical activity. To make tampon insertion easier, first time tampon users may wish to try a mini tampon, use some lubricant or saliva on the tampon or use a tampon with an applicator. Once a tampon has been inserted correctly a woman should not be able to feel it. Menstrual cups Menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone and are worn inside the vagina to catch menstrual fluid. Because they sit inside the vagina they can be worn when participating in activities such as swimming but cannot be worn when engaging in penetrative sex. In Australia they are classified as a medical device and must therefore be approved for sale by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)(11).