Menstrual irregularities differ for every woman because the symptoms depend on what each woman experiences. These can be changes in the frequency length, missing a period, having unusually heavy periods or getting two periods in a month, among other things. Dr Iba Mayele, an obstetrician gynaecologist at Gynaecology Clinic Galien, Kimironko, says that menstrual irregularities can have a variety of causes, including pregnancy hormone imbalance, infection, stress, eating disorder, extreme exercise, trauma and certain medication. He says that the cause of irregular periods may also include perimenopause, or menopause transition, which begins several years before menopause. It’s the time when the ovaries gradually begin to make less estrogen. Health conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, among others, can also menstrual irregularity. Irregular periods can be quite normal at the beginning and end of a woman’s reproductive life, however, irregularity can be a sign of hormonal imbalance or abnormalities with the reproductive organs, like the uterus, Mayele says. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS Research says that irregularities in length, rare or frequent periods, missed periods, irregularities in flow, changes in blood flow, blood clots larger than an inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, irregularities in pain, painful cramping, longer or shorter periods, breast tenderness, fluid retention, headaches, and early or late periods, are common signs and symptoms. TREATMENT “Treatment for an underlying disorder that is causing the menstrual problem can be counselling and nutritional therapy for an eating disorder, however, treatment for menstrual irregularities that are due to ovulatory bleeding can be through oral contraceptive, cyclic progestin and surgical removal of uterine polyps or fibroids,” Mayele says. Doctors warn against consuming alcohol and caffeine in excess as it can exacerbate irregular periods. They advise to cut down intake of refined carbohydrates, complement nutrition with multivitamins and other supplements, consider meditation, yoga, or other methods of stress relief, consume lots of water to keep the body hydrated, and consider using anti-inflammatory medications to relieve painful periods. ADVISABLE FOOD Dieudonne Bukaba, a nutritionist at Avega Clinic, Remera, says a diet high in fibre can cause an increase in irregular periods. Fibre is believed to remove excess estrogen which is required to regulate the menstrual cycle. He says that dietary fat might also help to control one’s monthly cycle, for instance, fats help to increase the body’s production of estrogen and regulate the menstrual cycle, a sudden change in weight affects the menstrual cycle. “Women with eating disorders might experience missed periods because of a loss of body fat, which reduces estrogen production. Take Aloe vera juice because it helps balance hormones. Eggs are also good since they are rich in protein and healthy fats which are important for hormonal balance and regulating menstruation,” he says. Bukaba says to eat foods rich in Vitamin C and beta-carotene, as they are important for improved hormonal balance and menstrual health; fruits and vegetables provide significant amounts of both nutrients, along with fibre. He warns against taking fruit juices and fruits with added sweeteners, which have a high glycaemic index, rather, opt for fresh or frozen, unsweetened fruits and vegetables. For beta-carotene, eat sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupe, mango and sweet peppers. Top Vitamin C sources include red bell peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli, and strawberries. Turmeric powder is also good to eat during menstruation as it helps reduce inflammation and pain, contains a high amount of antioxidants and is also essential in regulating periods by balancing hormones. Ginger should not be ignored as it has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and works as a pain reliever, Bukaba says. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
