Women’s Health – How to Cope With Menstrual Problems

Women’s health all over the world has the commonality of the menstrual cycle. This is a natural part of being female and a miraculous function of the reproductive cycle.The most positive aspect of the menstrual cycle, of course, is the ability to become pregnant and give birth. The negative aspects have to do with pain, inconvenience and mood alteration.Pain can occur before the cycle, often referred to as the infamous PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, or during the period itself. Common complaints include cramps, low back pain, tenderness in the breasts and headaches. Much of this has to do with the fluctuation of hormones and the physical changes that occur due to the shedding of the lining of the uterus.In order for the cycle to end with the slough off of the lining, the uterus must contract, which often causes pain. This is most common in teenagers and in the early days of having periods. As a woman’s body matures, the cramps often recede in severity.If extremely painful periods reappear in a woman, it is a good idea to have this checked out with a gynecologist because it can be the indicator of an underlying health problem, such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease or fibroids. Cramps may be alleviated by taking over the counter pain medication, hot compresses to the area or warm baths.A monthly period can be deemed an inconvenience if it interferes with regular activities. Heavy bleeding can also be extremely inconvenient. There is an assortment of pads and tampons on the market today that should be able to allow a woman to still maintain her regular lifestyle, however.There are tampons for swimming, pads for light, medium or heavy days. Sometimes having a variety of supplies on hand to use for different occasions or instances where the flow is heavier will give a woman an adequate amount of freedom.Mood alteration often occurs pre-menstrually or during this period, as well. Moods can range from sadness, lethargy to crankiness. This occurs due to fluctuating hormones and being in a bit of pain. Taking a walk and getting exercise is very helpful. Knowing that “this too will pass” is helpful, as well.If a woman knows that she is prone to mood alterations, it is wise for her to give herself an extra dose of TLC during that time and not make any life changing decisions during that time period. The week before one’s period begins is not t time to decide to quit a job or tell off a friend. A wise lady will realize that she needs to wait a week and see if the feelings have shifted.Menstrual problems can be a hassle, but they are also a monthly message to a woman that she is in the prime of life and that her body is just doing its job.