Irregular periods to severe PMS: Know the red flags, says gynaecologist
The period symptoms women should not ignore. She said early medical advice can help detect underlying conditions and prevent complications.
Menstrual health is an important part of a woman’s overall well-being, yet many concerns continue to be ignored or normalised. From painful cramps to irregular cycles, women often accept discomfort as part of their routine instead of seeking medical advice.
However, doctors say this mindset can delay diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions.
Dr Michelle Victor, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Holy Family Hospital, Mumbai, highlighted that while mild symptoms can be common during periods, persistent or severe issues should never be ignored.
Recognising the difference between what is normal and what is not can help prevent long-term complications.
PAINFUL PERIODS: WHEN CRAMPS GO BEYOND NORMAL
Mild cramping during periods is common and usually manageable. However, if the pain becomes severe enough to interfere with daily activities or does not improve with basic pain relief medicines, it may be a sign of an underlying condition.
Conditions like Endometriosis or uterine fibroids can cause intense pain and discomfort. These issues require proper diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring such symptoms can worsen the condition over time.
HEAVY BLEEDING IS NOT SOMETHING TO IGNORE
Many women assume heavy bleeding is normal, but it can be a warning sign. If you need to change sanitary pads every 1–2 hours, experience large blood clots, or have periods lasting longer than seven days, it is important to consult a doctor.
Excessive bleeding can lead to Anaemia, causing fatigue and weakness. It may also indicate hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or other uterine problems that need medical attention.
IRREGULAR PERIODS COULD SIGNAL A DEEPER ISSUE
Occasionally, missing a period due to stress or lifestyle changes is common. However, frequent irregularities should not be ignored. If your cycle is shorter than 21 days, longer than 35 days, or suddenly changes pattern, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
Irregular periods are often linked to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a condition that can affect fertility and overall health if left untreated.
UNUSUAL BLEEDING PATTERNS NEED INVESTIGATION
Certain types of bleeding are not considered normal and require prompt medical evaluation. These include bleeding between periods, bleeding after sexual intercourse, and absence of periods for several months (if not pregnant).
Such symptoms may point to infections, hormonal issues, or other medical conditions that need timely diagnosis.
SEVERE MOOD CHANGES COULD BE MORE THAN PMS
Many women experience mood swings, irritability, or fatigue before their periods, commonly known as premenstrual syndrome. However, when these symptoms become extreme and affect daily life, it could be a more serious condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
This condition requires medical support and should not be dismissed as routine mood changes.
WHY EARLY ACTION MATTERS
A healthy menstrual cycle is a key indicator of overall health. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to complications that may become harder to manage later.
Doctors emphasise the importance of maintaining menstrual hygiene, tracking cycles, and paying attention to any unusual symptoms.
Seeking timely medical advice not only improves outcomes but also ensures a better quality of life.
As experts highlight, periods should not be something women “just tolerate.” If something feels unusual or uncomfortable, it is always better to consult a doctor early rather than wait.
Menstrual health is an important part of a woman’s overall well-being, yet many concerns continue to be ignored or normalised. From painful cramps to irregular cycles, women often accept discomfort as part of their routine instead of seeking medical advice.
However, doctors say this mindset can delay diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions.
Dr Michelle Victor, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Holy Family Hospital, Mumbai, highlighted that while mild symptoms can be common during periods, persistent or severe issues should never be ignored.
Recognising the difference between what is normal and what is not can help prevent long-term complications.
PAINFUL PERIODS: WHEN CRAMPS GO BEYOND NORMAL
Mild cramping during periods is common and usually manageable. However, if the pain becomes severe enough to interfere with daily activities or does not improve with basic pain relief medicines, it may be a sign of an underlying condition.
Conditions like Endometriosis or uterine fibroids can cause intense pain and discomfort. These issues require proper diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring such symptoms can worsen the condition over time.
HEAVY BLEEDING IS NOT SOMETHING TO IGNORE
Many women assume heavy bleeding is normal, but it can be a warning sign. If you need to change sanitary pads every 1–2 hours, experience large blood clots, or have periods lasting longer than seven days, it is important to consult a doctor.
Excessive bleeding can lead to Anaemia, causing fatigue and weakness. It may also indicate hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or other uterine problems that need medical attention.
IRREGULAR PERIODS COULD SIGNAL A DEEPER ISSUE
Occasionally, missing a period due to stress or lifestyle changes is common. However, frequent irregularities should not be ignored. If your cycle is shorter than 21 days, longer than 35 days, or suddenly changes pattern, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
Irregular periods are often linked to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a condition that can affect fertility and overall health if left untreated.
UNUSUAL BLEEDING PATTERNS NEED INVESTIGATION
Certain types of bleeding are not considered normal and require prompt medical evaluation. These include bleeding between periods, bleeding after sexual intercourse, and absence of periods for several months (if not pregnant).
Such symptoms may point to infections, hormonal issues, or other medical conditions that need timely diagnosis.
SEVERE MOOD CHANGES COULD BE MORE THAN PMS
Many women experience mood swings, irritability, or fatigue before their periods, commonly known as premenstrual syndrome. However, when these symptoms become extreme and affect daily life, it could be a more serious condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
This condition requires medical support and should not be dismissed as routine mood changes.
WHY EARLY ACTION MATTERS
A healthy menstrual cycle is a key indicator of overall health. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to complications that may become harder to manage later.
Doctors emphasise the importance of maintaining menstrual hygiene, tracking cycles, and paying attention to any unusual symptoms.
Seeking timely medical advice not only improves outcomes but also ensures a better quality of life.
As experts highlight, periods should not be something women “just tolerate.” If something feels unusual or uncomfortable, it is always better to consult a doctor early rather than wait.
