Introduction

Many women experience a host of emotional and/or physical symptoms just before and during menstruation which can disrupt their life in significant ways. Most of these symptoms, however, have easily identifiable causes, and there is a range of treatment options available to treat these symptoms. Apollo Clinic has set up a Speciality Clinic for Menstrual Disorders to help women alleviate their menstrual disorder symptoms and have a more fulfilling and enriching life. 

What are Menstrual Disorders?

Menstrual cycles are often accompanied with a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as fatigue, cramps leading up to your period. In most cases, these symptoms go away when your period begins. However, other severe menstrual conditions such as menstruation being too light or heavy or the complete absence of a cycle.

What are the common Menstrual Disorders?

Every woman’s menstrual cycle is unique and what may be an issue for one could be normal for another. It is important to be watchful of your cycle and consult a specialist if you notice any significant changes to your cycle.

Our expert Gynaecologyologyologists at Apollo Clinic's Speciality Clinic for Menstrual Disorders have listed some common menstrual disorders, their causes and symptoms:

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) – PMS occurs a week or two before your period begins. Symptoms of PMS range from physical pain to emotional mood swings. Also, symptoms may vary every month and from woman to woman. PMS is uncomfortable but not a major cause for concern. Symptoms include irritability, headaches, acne, excessive fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhoea, bloating, backaches, breast soreness, food cravings, depression, feeling stressed, constipation, mild cramps.

Heavy periods – In this condition, you tend to bleed more than usual. You may also have extended periods, longer than your average 5-7 days. Heavy periods are mostly caused due to imbalances in hormone levels, especially progesterone and oestrogen. Other reasons include vaginal infections, hypothyroidism, changes in diet or exercise, puberty, inflammation of the cervix, fibroids. 

Missing periods – In some cases, women don’t get their period at all. This condition is known as amenorrhea and can be primary or secondary. 

Primary amenorrhea – When you don’t get your first period by the age of 16, it is known as primary amenorrhea. Causes include delay in puberty, issue with the pituitary gland, and congenital defect in the reproductive system. 

Secondary amenorrhea – When you miss your regular periods for six months or more, it is known as secondary amenorrhea. 

Causes of missing periods are different in teenagers and adults. For teens, causes include overactive thyroid gland, sudden weight gain or loss, pregnancy, anorexia, ovarian cysts and discontinuing birth control. In case of adults, causes could be pelvic inflammatory disease, pregnancy, menopause, premature ovarian failure, discontinuing birth control, and menopause. 

Painful periods – While cramps are normal during the beginning of your period; some women experience severe pain throughout their periods. These painful periods are generally due to an underlying medical condition such as pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids, and endometriosis. 

How Can We Help You?

Apollo Clinic’s Specialty Menstrual Disorders Clinic is one of the finest in the country today. Our experienced Gynaecologyologyologists handle your menstrual disorders with utmost sensitivity while providing effective treatment. Your doctor will discuss in detail the symptoms you are experiencing, your family and medical history. Next, your doctor may prescribe some tests to help with the diagnosis such as:

A pelvic exam – This helps assess your reproductive organs and determine if your cervix or vagina are inflamed.

Pap smear – This test helps rule out the chance of cancer or any other underlying condition

Blood tests – These assist in determining if hormonal imbalances are the underlying cause of your menstrual problems

Pregnancy – A blood or urine test may be ordered if your doctor suspects that you are pregnant 

Endometrial biopsy – A sample of your uterine lining is extracted and sent to the laboratory for further investigation

Hysteroscopy – In this test, a small camera is inserted into your uterus to help detect any abnormalities

Depending on the results of the investigations and diagnosis, your doctor will prescribe suitable treatment. Treatment measures include medication, hormone replacement therapy, antibiotics. 

Apollo Support

Over the years, Apollo Clinic's Specialty Clinic for Menstrual Disorders has become a woman’s most preferred facility for menstrual care. Today, we are synonymous with excellence, integrity and successful outcomes. Our multidisciplinary team of expert Gynaecologyologyologists, Ultra sonographers, nurses and support staff is complemented by our state-of-the-art equipment and amenities. We continually strive to provide the best course of treatment in an environment that is comfortable.