Posted: April 18, 2018 Contributor: administrator
Period Problems: Signs it’s Time to See Your Doctor
Periods are synonymous with a handful of less-than-thrilling effects on a women’s body – including mood swings, changes in appetite, lethargy, and much more. Because everyone’s body and cycles are different, distinguishing the line between normal and abnormal is a difficult task.
Signs you should see your doctor
Luckily, there are three things to look out for during your menstrual cycle that help identify possible health issues in their earliest stages:
Excessive bleeding
The average woman loses between 30ml to 40ml of blood during their menstrual cycle each month. There’s no need to worry if yours regularly brings a heavier flow, as long as it doesn’t exceed 80ml. If you’re experiencing what you believe to be a notable increase in blood loss, it could signify a potential hormone imbalance, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or a number of other health concerns.
Abnormal blood clots
As with blood loss, clotting may be a natural part of your menstrual cycle – it’s the rate at which clotting occurs that could raise a red flag. If you experience abnormal clotting during your period, be sure to see a doctor as it could be a result of uterine fibroids. If ignored, clotting has the ability to create a blockage and lead to serious illnesses and infections.
Severe cramping or back pain
Contrary to popular belief, painful periods are not the norm. While mild cramps come with the territory, they should never be unbearable. When pain is extreme enough to keep you from day-to-day activities, is not susceptible to over-the-counter pain medications, or lasts more than three days, it may be a sign of serious health issues.
Talk to your doctor
Don’t let stigma or shame keep you from addressing possible issues—when it comes to your health, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. At the end of the day, you know your body the best, so be sure to listen to it and seek attention if you fear something isn’t right.