Have you noticed that whenever you go for a medical checkup your doctor asks you some specific questions about your periods? Questions such as when was your last menstrual period (LMP), are your periods regular or irregular are among the most common ones asked. Answers to these questions throw light on your overall health. The menstruation cycle can affect your hormone and stress levels, mood, energy, immune system, and fertility. Any abnormality in your menstrual cycle can indicate several health irregularities such as infertility, PCOD, and even cancer.
What Does Your Menstrual Bleeding Indicate?
The flow of your menstrual bleeding, the gap between your periods, and even the color of your blood can mean one of the following conditions:
Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is an extremely common disease in women. Heavy bleeding, whitish flow, tiredness, and leg cramps indicate anemia. Usually, iron pills are used to treat anemia.
Endometriosis
This is a common painful disorder among women. If you experience severe, debilitating pain in your abdomen and lower back during periods, it could mean endometriosis. It is usually accompanied by heavy flow, longer duration of periods, nausea, and vomiting. This condition also causes painful sexual intercourse, and painful urinary and bowel movements.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
If you suffer from irregular periods or insufficient periods it could be a sign of PCOS. In this condition, your ovaries do not produce the necessary amount of hormones and eggs. PCOS is a primary cause of infertility in women below 40 years of age.
Uterine Fibroids
If you experience blood clotting during your periods, it could be uterine fibroids. Some amount of clotting is normal but larger clots mean you have low progesterone levels and high estrogen levels. Heavy and prolonged periods can indicate noncancerous growth in the uterus or uterine fibroids.
Cancer
If you notice spotting between periods then visit your doctor immediately. Spotting between periods can indicate cervical, ovarian, or endometrial cancer.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)
Spotting between periods, heavy itching, and burning during periods can indicate yeast infection, candida infection, and sexually transmitted disease.
Your menstruation cycle is directly related to your fertility. It reflects the health condition of your reproduction system. Any irregularities in the menstruation cycle can affect your chances of becoming pregnant. So, be watchful and consult your doctor if you notice any changes in your cycle or menstrual bleeding.
