What Are Menstrual Health and Menstrual Disorders?
Understanding what are menstrual health and menstrual disorders is crucial for every girl and woman. Menstruation is more than just a monthly event—it's a vital indicator of reproductive and overall health. But when things go wrong, menstrual disorders can impact your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
What Is Menstrual Health?
Menstrual health refers to the complete physical, mental, and social well-being related to menstruation. It involves:
- Having access to clean menstrual products
- Understanding how your cycle works
- Being free from stigma or discrimination
- Being able to manage pain and symptoms
In short, it's about being able to menstruate safely and with dignity, without shame or health complications.
Normal Menstrual Cycle Basics
A typical cycle lasts 21 to 35 days, with bleeding for 3–7 days. Regularity, manageable pain, and stable flow are signs of a healthy cycle. Any consistent deviation from this may signal a menstrual disorder.
Common Menstrual Disorders
Disorders can affect the frequency, flow, or symptoms of menstruation. Here's a breakdown:
- Dysmenorrhea: Painful periods, including cramps, back pain, and nausea
- Menorrhagia: Heavy or prolonged bleeding that disrupts daily life
- Amenorrhea: Absence of periods (primary: never started; secondary: stops after being regular)
- Oligomenorrhea: Infrequent periods (cycles longer than 35 days)
- PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome): Emotional and physical symptoms before periods
- PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder): Severe mood disorder linked to menstruation
Causes of Menstrual Disorders
- Hormonal imbalances (PCOS, thyroid issues)
- Uterine conditions (fibroids, endometriosis)
- Stress and mental health conditions
- Rapid weight loss or eating disorders
- Excessive exercise or physical strain
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if you experience:
- Bleeding lasting more than 7 days
- Severe cramps unresponsive to medication
- Periods that stop suddenly
- Extreme emotional changes before your cycle
Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Improving Menstrual Health
- Track your cycle using apps or journals
- Stay active and manage stress levels
- Use hygienic products and change them regularly
- Eat iron-rich foods and stay hydrated
- Talk openly about periods to break stigma
Why This Matters
Ignoring period-related symptoms can lead to fertility issues, anaemia, and chronic pain. Menstrual health is a fundamental part of gender equality, mental well-being, and public health.
Related: Maintaining hygiene during menstruation – Practical tips
Related: Understanding menstrual cramps – What’s normal and what’s not
Explore more women's health topics on Ichhori
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