For the OB/GYN doctor, the menstrual cycle is an important window into a woman’s state of health. Whenever I evaluate a patient in my office I always ask her to describe her menstrual cycles. I compare her responses to what a normal cycle has been defined as. Many women have abnormal cycles, but have grown so used to them that they believe they are normal.
Understanding Menstrual Cycles
Menstrual Cycles can be described in terms of three measurements
Frequency: How often the periods come
Duration: How long they last
Amount: How much blood is lost
Being able to describe your cycle in these terms takes a little bit of monitoring. One of the best ways to help you monitor your cycles is to keep a menstrual calendar. You can use a paper calendar and record the days which you have a cycle. This will provide for the frequency and duration. The amount is a little harder to measure and will take a little bit of guessing.
What Is A Normal Menstrual Cycle?
A normal frequency is 24-35 days measured from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. A normal duration is between 2 and 7 days. The normal amount of blood lost is less than 80ml or about 1/3 cup of blood over the entire period.
What Should I Do If My Cycles Are Not Normal?
Many women have cycles which don’t fall into these normal ranges. There are several possible causes of this. The most common is an imbalance in the hormones which control the cycle . There are several treatments which can correct this imbalance and improve the periods. Often, the problem can be followed without treatment if menstrual problems aren’t too bad.
Your OB/GYN is your best resource for figuring out the cause of your problem. The evaluation for this problem involves taking a history and physical, running some lab tests, and often an ultrasound to look at the internal structures. The results reviewed and a plan of action is made to bring the cycles closer to what is considered normal.
This article is written for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Seek the care of a medical professional in making decisions about your health.
Are you having menstrual cycle changes which are causing problems? You don’t have to continue suffering with these problems. There are many treatments for heavy bleeding and other period problems which don’t involve surgery. Make an appointment today to discuss a treatment that can meet your needs .