What is Irregular Menstruation
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Irregular menstruation, also known as menstrual disorders, is a common gynecological disease characterized by abnormalities in the menstrual cycle or bleeding volume, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain before or during menstruation and other systemic symptoms. The cause may be organic pathology or functional disorders
Causes of Irregular Menstruation
1. Emotional Abnormalities Causing Menstrual Disorders
Emotional abnormalities such as prolonged mental depression, stress, or major emotional trauma can lead to irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, or amenorrhea. This is because menstruation is influenced by hormones secreted by the ovaries and regulated by the pituitary and hypothalamus, so any dysfunction in the ovaries, pituitary, or hypothalamus will affect the menstrual cycle.
2. Cold Stimuli Leading to Less Menstrual Flow or Amenorrhea
When women are exposed to cold during menstruation, it can cause excessive contraction of blood vessels in the pelvic cavity area, which may lead to reduced menstrual flow or even amenorrhea. Therefore, women should take precautions against cold and dampness during menstruation.
3. Dieting Leading to Menstrual Disorders
A girl’s body fat should at least account for 17% of her body weight to first-ever period(menarche). A body fat percentage of 22% is required to maintain a regular menstrual cycle. Excessive dieting causes insufficient energy intake, resulting in the consumption of fats and proteins in the body, leading to a significant estrogen deficiency and menstrual irregularities, or even amenorrhea. Therefore, women who want to lose weight should avoid extreme dieting.
4. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption Leading to Menstrual Disorders
Some components in cigarettes and alcohol can interfere with the physiological processes related to menstruation, causing menstrual irregularities.
Symptoms of Irregular Menstruation
Irregular menstruation manifests as abnormalities in the menstrual cycle or bleeding volume, including the following conditions:
1. Irregular Uterine Bleeding
This is a clinical symptom, including excessive menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, or spotting. It is commonly seen in conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, endometriosis, or dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
2. Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea is a common gynecological symptom caused by various factors. It is classified into primary and secondary amenorrhea. Primary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation after the age of 18. Secondary amenorrhea refers to the cessation of menstruation for more than 6 months after normal menstruation has started, excluding pregnancy or breastfeeding.
3. Menopause
Menopause refers to the cessation of menstruation for more than 12 months. However, peri-menopause often causes changes in the menstrual cycle and volume, such as shorter cycles, mainly in the follicular phase, anovulation, and heavier periods.
Treatment of Irregular Menstruation
1. Treating the Underlying Causes
For pathological causes, corresponding treatments should be applied based on the specific cause.
2. Hemostasis and Correcting Anemia
If prolonged or excessive menstrual bleeding causes anemia, aside from general hemostatic measures, hormones or curettage may be used. Oral blood tonics or intravenous infusion may also be applied.
3. Adjusting the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle can be regulated with estrogen, progesterone, or combined hormone therapy. Traditional Chinese Medicine may also be used for treatment.
4. Infertility
Dysfunction in one or more parts of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis leading to anovulation is one of the pathophysiological bases for menstrual disorders and is a common cause of infertility. Some patients may have insufficient luteal function despite ovulation. Treatment should aim to improve ovarian function or substitute some functions of the pituitary and hypothalamus.
5. Reducing Menstrual Disorders
It’s important to learn about menstrual health and proper hygiene before the onset of menstruation. Keeping warm, avoiding cold exposure, reducing fatigue, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing emotions can all help regulate the menstrual cycle.