Even though almost all women understand what menstruation is, it can be hard to know what exactly it should look and feel like. The truth is, there really is no such thing as a “normal” period. Although the average menstrual cycle is 28 days long, with an average period of around three to five days, this can vary greatly on an individual basis.
Because of this, it can be difficult to know when abnormalities about your own period patterns are worrisome or not. Here are the signs to look for that might indicate something is wrong during menstruation.
Your Period Has Slowed or Stopped
This is something that could happen for a variety of reasons, depending on other factors, such as your age, your likelihood of pregnancy, your amount of physical activity, and your overall health. For example, sexually active women in their 20s or 30s who stop having a period are likely pregnant when this occurs. However, a woman in her 40s or 50s is probably in the early stages of menopause. Excessive exercise may also cause you to stop having a period—this occurs in up to 25% of female athletes, especially ballet dancers and runners.
However, if this happens to you, it is always best to check with your doctor, since there are other health conditions that could cause this to occur. These include: thyroid disorders, hypothalamus disorders, breastfeeding, obesity, oral contraceptives, polycystic ovarian syndrome, ovarian failure, and disease of the uterus.
Your Period Is Heavier Than Normal
It is normal for women to shed between two and three tablespoons of blood each month. However, heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, mean that you shed more than five tablespoons of blood monthly. This can be dangerous, since bleeding excessively means that your iron levels become depleted. Without enough iron, your red blood cell count will drop, resulting in anemia.
Anemia can in turn cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and pale skin. If you are anemic because of your heavy period flow, you may need iron supplements to help with the deficiency.
You're Bleeding In Between Periods
This is one problem that should never be ignored. While it may be caused mild irritation in the vagina, it could be something much more serious, such as cancer. See your doctor as soon as possible to have this checked out.
You're Experiencing Excessive Pain During Your Period
Though most people have uncomfortable cramps during their period, it's usually mild and will go away within one to two days. If the pain is extremely intense and is accompanied by other symptoms, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and headaches, you might have another condition, such as endometriosis or fibroids. Pelvic exams, Pap tests, and other diagnostic exams can help your doctor to determine what the exact source of your pain is.
You're Experiencing Uncommon Menstruation Symptoms
There are other, less common issues that should also be reported to your doctor. Some examples include:
- You bleed for more than seven days straight.
- You went into menopause and are now bleeding again.
- Your periods used to be regular but are now irregular.
- Your period comes more often than every 21 days or less often than every 35 days.
