5 Words Every Menstruating Woman Should Know

A woman's period is a big part of her life and there are some things every woman needs to know about menstruation. Here are the five most important words every woman needs to know about menstruation.

Menarche

The first menstrual cycle, or bleeding in females. While menarche may occur at different ages the range is between 11 and 13 years old. A relatively small number of females will get their period earlier than this with the median age for first time menstruation being 12 years old. Prior to the first menstrual period a young person may experience vaginal discharge for up to a year. The development of breast is also a signal that a young woman period may follow.

Amenorrhea

Have you ever experienced a sudden absence of your menstrual cycle for more than 3 months? If so you have experienced amenorrhea. There are two types of Amenorrhea primary and secondary. Primary amenorrhea is when you don't get a menstrual period for the first time. Secondary is when you do have a period and it suddenly stops. Secondary amenorrhea may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, increased or decreased in weight, poly cystic ovarian syndrome and other causes. It is important to note that even in the absence of your period due to secondary amenorrhea you may still get pregnant. If you experience amenorrhea it is important to see your doctor to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.

Dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea also known as menstrual cramps can be extremely painful and uncomfortable for menstruating women. The cause of menstrual cramps ranges from heavy flow, passing clots, to more serious conditions such as uterine cramps. Everything from over the counter pain relief, yoga, to avoiding caffeine and alcohol have been recommended to treat menstrual cramps.

Menorrhagia

Menorrhagia is menstrual bleeding that lasts more than 7 days. It is also described as bleeding that is very heavy.  How do you know if its Menorrhagia? Some women experience a very heavy blood flow and heavy clots passing during urination or while walking.  It is very uncomfortable. A woman may saturate a pad or tampon in less than two hours as a result of Menorrhagia. If you think you are experiencing Menorrhagia see your doctor to discuss your symptoms. There are a variety of causes of Menorrhagia see your doctor to discuss.

Perimenopause

Many women are familiar with menopause but just before menopause is perimenopause. As its name implies peri menopause is the time before menopause. It typically begins in a woman's 40' s but can also start in her 30' s. Your doctor can perform a blood test to check your hormonal levels to determine if you are experience peri menopause other symptoms include night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, change in flow of period. These symptoms can also be signs of other conditions as well. If you suspect you are peri menopausal speak to your doctor about your concerns.