List of Common Menstrual Problems

Every woman has a different menstrual cycle, with varying degrees of discomfort or ease. But, there are several common problems many women face during their menstrual cycles. These can range from mild discomfort to severe conditions that require medical attention.

Decoding Common Menstrual Problems

The most common menstrual problems include:

1. Dysmenorrhea: Severe and persistent cramping and pain associated with menstruation.
2. Menorrhagia: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
3. Amenorrhea: The absence of menstrual periods.
4. Oligomenorrhea: Light or infrequent menstrual periods.
5. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): A group of symptoms that occur before the menstrual period starts.

Understanding the Symptoms and Causes

• Dysmenorrhea

Symptoms: Severe pelvic and abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea.

Causes: Usually due to natural contractions of the uterus, but conditions like endometriosis or fibroids can increase the intensity.

• Menorrhagia

Symptoms: Bleeding for longer than a week, blood clots, needing to change protection every hour.

Causes: Hormone imbalance, dysfunction of the ovaries, uterine fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, certain medications, and complications associated with pregnancy.

• Amenorrhea

Symptoms: Lack of menstruation, hair loss, headache, vision changes, excess facial hair.

Causes: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, low body weight, excessive exercise, stress, PCOS, and certain medications.

• Oligomenorrhea

Symptoms: Menstrual cycles longer than 35 days, fewer than 9 periods a year.

Causes: PCOS, thyroid problems, high levels of physical or emotional stress, eating disorders, and extreme weight loss or gain.

• PMS

Symptoms: Mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability, depression.

Causes: Changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, chemical changes in the brain, and possibly certain vitamins and minerals deficiency.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Menstrual Problems

Ayurveda has been treating menstrual problems for thousands of years. It considers the menstrual cycle as a natural process and views any disturbances as an imbalance in the doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

For instance, Ayurveda links dysmenorrhea with an excess of Vata dosha and recommends a diet and lifestyle that calms this dosha. Similarly, it associates menorrhagia with an imbalance of Pitta and suggests remedies accordingly.

Ayurvedic treatment involves dietary changes, herbal remedies, yoga, and meditation. It aims to balance the doshas, cleanse the body, and restore the normal functioning of the menstrual cycle.

Menstrual problems can vary widely among women and can significantly affect their quality of life. Understanding the symptoms and causes can lead to early detection and treatment. Ayurveda, with its holistic approach, can offer effective and natural solutions to these common problems. However, any treatment should be sought under the guidance of a certified professional.

Let’s empower ourselves with knowledge about our bodies, embrace the healing power of nature, and strive for a healthier menstrual cycle. Remember, your menstrual health is an important part of your overall well-being.