You might have experienced regular, uneventful periods for many years but then start experiencing discomfort, spasms, tenderness or bleeding pattern changes. Slight changes can be expected given our dynamic human biology; however, severe or prolonged symptoms should prompt you to seek gynecologist specialist services.
Here is a list of signs to watch for when periods become problems.
Increased Bleeding
An abnormal increase in or longer-than-normal bleeding is termed menorrhagia and these are a description of the symptoms:
- Bleeding longer than a week.
- Blood flooding through menstrual products within 2 hours.
- Inability to sleep through the night without changing menstrual products.
- Passing blood clots larger than a fifty-cent piece. This could be a sign of fibroids, endometriosis or adenomyosis (uterine lining perforating uterus wall).
These symptoms could be signs of imbalanced hormones or uterus conditions.
Inter-period Bleeding
Sometimes small blood spots may appear inter-period or even slightly more than spots. If this occurs, it might be a sign of the following conditions:
- Non-cancerous uterine cysts or cervical cysts
- Inflammation of the pelvis
- Hormone level changes. These could be normal, e.g. oncoming puberty or menopause
- Endometriosis
It is important to discuss this with your Ob/GYN as, in rare cases, this could be a sign of cancer.
Missed Periods
Whilst you might find it convenient, you shouldn’t brush off missed periods as a win. Your period regularity could be affected by stress, excessive exercise and contraceptives.
If your period returns the next month, then there is no cause for alarm. If not, please make an appointment.
If you are in the menopause window, then your period could stop. This is called amenorrhea and is also caused by:
- Eating disorders
- Extreme weight fluctuations
- Long-term, intense stress
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Breast Tenderness
It is normal to experience moderate breast sensitivity during your menstruation; however, please chat with Dr Nitesh if you are experiencing:
- Severe sensitivity
- Sensitivity outside of your period time
- A combination of sensitivity and lumps in your breasts
- A combination of sensitivity and nipple or breast skin changes
Spasms And Cramps
It is normal to experience moderate spasms and cramps during menstruation. This is called dysmenorrhea. Extreme or debilitating spasms could be a sign of:
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Fibroids
Conclusion
There are many unique conditions that you may experience and are unsure about. Do not think that any symptom is too insignificant to mention to your Ob/GYN. If you need information or reassurance, reach out to Dr Nitesh for help.
If you’re in need of gynaecologist services, get in touch with us today.