2024-05-06 08:48:30
Obstetrician-gynecologist Reda Verbickienė of Kaunas “InMedica” clinic emphasizes that each case is individual, so although the normal length of the menstrual cycle is 21-35 days, some women may have periods shorter than 21 days. or longer than 35 d. cycle.
“The menstrual cycle is counted from the first day of bleeding to the first day of the next menstrual bleeding. It is commonly believed that a woman’s normal menstrual cycle lasts from 21 to 35 days, but it should be noted that some sources say that it is 25 to 35 days, while others say that a normal cycle is up to 38 days.
In addition, 1-2 cycles per year can be non-ovulatory – that is, longer than usual”, says R. Verbickienė.
The duration of the menstrual cycle varies with age
Girls usually get their first period between the ages of 10 and 15. From this point in life, the length of the cycle can change: at first it is longer, then it becomes shorter, and in the remaining 2-8 years. until menopause begins to lengthen again.
“40 percent The duration of the 25-year cycle is 25-28 days, and in the period from 25 to 35 years. Even 60 percent have a 28-day cycle. women. 40-42 years usually have the shortest menstrual cycle. women,” says the obstetrician-gynecologist.
According to scientific data, if the cycle lasts 42 days, it is likely that menopause will begin within the next 1-2 years. Most often, women encounter it at the age of about 52-53, although 10 percent women stop menstruating at 45. age.
As for the regularity of menstruation, after 2-3 years after their appearance, the cycle for most girls settles down. However, there are cases when it remains irregular throughout life – as many as 20% experience this. women.
“Usually bleeding during menstruation lasts 4-6 days, but about 3 percent women may bleed for up to 2 days. Most of the blood is lost during the first 3 days. – usually about 30 ml. If you lose 80 ml or more, you should consult your doctor, because this can lead to anemia,” says R. Verbickienė.
When should you be concerned about a changed menstrual cycle?
There is no need to worry if your period is a few days late, but if the bleeding has become more abundant or lasts longer, it is useful to visit your obstetrician-gynecologist on a scheduled basis.
You should also be concerned if there are noticeable changes in body weight, discharge from the nipples, changes in hairiness, and you cannot get pregnant within 6-12 months while living a regular sex life. or the menstrual cycle is irregular.
“Usually, I advise my patients who apply for changes in bleeding to come for an examination before the 10th day of the cycle, counting from the first day of bleeding. During this period, the lining of the uterus is thin, ovulation has not yet occurred in the ovaries, so we have extremely favorable conditions for diagnosing the disease at an early stage,” the obstetrician-gynecologist points out.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common cause of menstrual irregularities in women of reproductive age. 6 percent women with irregular cycles also face thyroid function disorders, and sometimes menstrual changes can be caused by an increased level of prolactin in the blood. These disorders can be caused by genetic factors, autoimmune diseases or constant high stress.
How are menstrual cycle disorders diagnosed?
R. Verbickienė reminds that the earlier the disease is diagnosed, the fewer tests may be needed, and the treatment becomes simpler and more effective. For this reason, it’s a good idea to consult your gynecologist anytime you have concerns.
“Like most diseases, the diagnosis of menstrual cycle disorders begins with a conversation with the patient and a general assessment, followed by a gynecological examination and an ultrasound examination. Hormonal tests are often needed to clarify the cause of the disorder, and sometimes a consultation with an endocrinologist is also needed,” notes the obstetrician-gynecologist.
Since menstrual cycle disorders are often caused by hormonal imbalances, they are usually treated by restoring the hormonal balance. For example, in the presence of thyroid function disorders and their correction, the menstrual cycle can also be normalized.
It is also worth noting that women who have an excessive body mass index (BMI) or a body weight deficit are more likely to experience menstrual disorders. For this reason, it is important not to forget to constantly take care of a healthy lifestyle: work and rest mode, physical activity, avoid stress and eat healthy.
2024-05-06 08:48:30