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Menstrual cycles vary from woman to woman, but a regular cycle generally lasts between 21 and 35 days, with menstruation occurring for 3 to 7 days. However, many women experience irregularities that can disrupt their lives and indicate underlying health issues. Understanding different types of menstrual irregularities can help you better manage your cycle and seek medical advice when needed. Let’s explore the most common types of menstrual irregularities:
1. Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation)
Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation. There are two types:
Primary Amenorrhea occurs when a girl hasn’t begun menstruating by the age of 15.
Secondary Amenorrhea happens when a woman who previously had regular periods stops menstruating for three months or more.
Common causes include pregnancy, stress, excessive exercise, significant weight changes, and hormonal imbalances. Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders may also contribute.
2. Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods)
Dysmenorrhea refers to severe menstrual cramps or pain, particularly in the lower abdomen. There are two types:
Primary Dysmenorrhea is the most common and typically begins in adolescence. It is often caused by the release of prostaglandins, which cause the uterus to contract.
Secondary Dysmenorrhea may indicate underlying health issues like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
For many, the pain can be so intense that it interferes with daily activities, making it essential to seek medical advice if over-the-counter pain relief isn't helping.
3. Menstrual irregularities: Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
Menorrhagia is characterized by abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. Women with menorrhagia may experience periods lasting more than 7 days or need to change their menstrual product every 1-2 hours due to heavy flow.
Causes include hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, and certain medications. Left untreated, menorrhagia can lead to anemia, making it essential to seek treatment.
4. Shortened Menstrual Bleeding (Hypomenorrhea)
Hypomenorrhea occurs when periods are unusually light or last for fewer days than expected. Some women may experience only light spotting for a day or two.
This can result from hormonal contraception, stress, significant weight loss, or conditions like Asherman’s syndrome, where scarring in the uterus affects menstruation.
5. Oligomenorrhea (Infrequent Periods)
Oligomenorrhea refers to infrequent periods, typically cycles lasting more than 35 days. It can result from hormonal changes, PCOS, or other health conditions.
Women with irregular ovulation may notice gaps of several months between periods. Lifestyle factors like excessive exercise and weight fluctuations can also contribute to this condition.
6. Polymenorrhea (Frequent Periods)
Polymenorrhea occurs when menstrual cycles are shorter than 21 days, causing periods to occur more frequently. This irregularity may be caused by hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions like thyroid disorders or infections.
Frequent menstruation can disrupt your daily life and may also be a sign that ovulation isn’t occurring regularly, which can impact fertility.
How DivaMe Period Panties Can Help
For women experiencing menstrual irregularities, managing comfort and protection during unpredictable cycles is vital. DivaMe period panties are designed to provide reliable, leak-proof protection whether your flow is heavy, light, or unpredictable. Our range of panties, including options for heavier or lighter days, ensures you can go about your day worry-free, no matter how irregular your cycle may be.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience any of the following alongside menstrual irregularities, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider:
Extremely heavy bleeding
Periods lasting more than 7 days
Pain that interferes with daily activities
Menstrual cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
Absence of periods for more than 3 months without pregnancy
Understanding menstrual irregularities empowers women to take control of their reproductive health. If you notice any unusual changes, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. And remember, DivaMe period panties have your back, providing comfort and protection no matter how irregular your cycle may be.
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