Menstrual Disorders
Dr Sheetekela understands the impact of menstrual disorders on your daily life. Thus, he aims to thoroughly understand these conditions and offer effective treatments tailored to your unique needs.
What are menstrual disorders?
Menstrual disorders are conditions that disrupt the regular pattern, frequency, duration, or flow of a woman's menstrual cycle. They can range from minor irregularities to severe disturbances that affect overall health and lifestyle. These disorders are often indicators of underlying health issues and can influence fertility, hormonal balance, and physical well-being.
What is a normal menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle is an intricate balance of hormones, reproductive organs, and bodily functions. Usually, the menstrual cycle lasts around 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 35 days in adults and 21 to 45 days in teenagers.
The menstruation phase, involving the shedding of the uterine lining, typically spans 2 to 7 days. During this cycle, the body prepares for potential pregnancy, with ovulation marking the release of an egg from the ovaries.
A regular cycle is often a sign of good reproductive health, but variations can be expected.
What are the different types of menstrual disorders?
Menstrual disorders include a range of conditions:
- Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstrual cramps, which can be primary or secondary to other conditions.
- Menorrhagia: Excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
- Amenorrhea: The absence of menstrual periods, either primary or secondary.
- Oligomenorrhea: Infrequent menstruation.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): A variety of symptoms experienced before the onset of menstruation.
What causes menstrual disorders?
The causes are varied, including hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, and underlying health conditions. Commonly associated conditions with missed menstrual periods (amenorrhea) include:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder causing irregular menstruation.
- Thyroid disorders: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can interfere with regular menstrual cycles.
- Premature ovarian failure: This condition involves the premature exhaustion of ovarian eggs, resulting in the cessation of menstruation.
- Eating disorders: Conditions like anorexia or bulimia can lead to missed periods.
- Excessive exercise: High levels of physical activity can disrupt menstrual cycles.
- Stress: Chronic stress can impact hormonal balance, leading to irregular or missed periods.
How are menstrual disorders diagnosed?
Dr Sheetekela will conduct the following to diagnose a menstrual disorder:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination.
- Blood tests for hormonal evaluation.
- Pelvic ultrasounds to detect any anatomical causes.
- Additional tests like endometrial biopsy or laparoscopy, if needed.
What treatment is available?
At Dr Sheetekela’s OBGYN practice, treatment strategies are personalised and can include:
- Medications: Pain relievers for cramps, hormonal contraceptives to regulate cycles, and other hormone therapies.
- Lifestyle modifications: Dietary changes, stress management, and regular exercise.
- Surgical interventions: For conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or severe bleeding.
- Alternative treatments: Treatments like acupuncture or herbal supplements should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Your partner in managing menstrual health
Dr Sheetekala is dedicated to providing you with the care and understanding you need to manage menstrual disorders. He focuses on individualised treatment plans to address your specific symptoms and concerns, ensuring you receive the most effective and compassionate care.
Your menstrual health is a significant part of your overall well-being, and Dr Sheetekela is here to support you every step of the way.