The Preventions of Abnormal Menstrual Cycles

     Irregular menstruation (Irregular bleeding) and abnormal bleeding in women can be categorized into 3 patterns:

The 3 Patterns

• Volume: Normally, an average of 3-4 sanitary pads are changed per day. Changing 5 soaked pads per day is considered heavier than normal. Changing every 2 hours indicates severe abnormal bleeding.
• Duration: The number of days. Fewer than 4.5 days is considered too short, while more than 8 days is considered too long.
• Frequency: A normal cycle lasts 24-38 days. If it comes sooner than 24 days, it is too frequent. If it exceeds 38 days, it is considered delayed.

Symptoms of Abnormal Bleeding

     Abnormal bleeding symptoms can range from heavy, light, frequent, infrequent, spotting, or no period at all. Sometimes it occurs after intercourse and may be accompanied by other conditions like fever or abdominal pain. In cases of prolonged or acute blood loss, it may lead to anemia, causing fatigue, exhaustion, or dizziness.

Causes of Irregular Menstruation fall into 2 main groups:

1.  Presence of masses or growths

     For example, adenomyosis (endometriosis in the uterine muscle), uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, or in some cases, cancer or malignancy.

2.  No visible masses 

     Hormonal imbalance groups, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), blood clotting disorders (from anticoagulants or genetics), use of contraceptives or hormonal medications, or uterine infections. These can cause heavy, irregular bleeding and may include other symptoms like fever or pelvic pain.

Therefore, diagnosis requires a medical history, physical examination, and screening for other related diseases.

Treatment for Irregular Menstruation

Patients need to control current blood loss and prevent abnormal bleeding in future cycles. Treatment is divided into 2 parts:

• Medical treatment: Which is usually the first option.
• In cases where medication is ineffective or contraindicated: The doctor may consider surgery. Patients undergoing treatment should visit their doctor regularly to monitor whether to continue or stop medication.

Most importantly, overall health should be addressed, including reducing stress, weight control, exercise, and eating a healthy diet.