THEthe menstrual cycle is different from woman to woman. For some it is irregular, for others punctual as a Swiss watch. Some women have menstruation light and not painfulothers, on the contrary, with a abundant flow. In the latter case we speak of hypermenorrhea, a condition which, especially in summer, is even more disabling. So what to do and how to be sure it’s not hiding a problem?
The alterations of the menstrual cycle
«Hypermenorrhea is a generic term that indicates flow quantity abnormality. In general, we can have three types of anomalies: from the periodicityfrom the amount or of moment it shows up. When we talk about quantity, if it is scarce we are faced withhypomenorrheaon the contrary if the flow exceeds 80 milliliters per cyclewe talk about hypermenorrhea. On the other hand, when the blood loss is abnormal and unexpected between one cycle and the next it is metrorrhagia. These anomalies, then, may or may not be associated with dysmenorrheai.e. pain. In any case, when the bleeding is abnormal in terms of time of appearance or duration it is fine consult the gynecologist» warns her Doctor Rossella Laulettaspecialist in Obsterics and Gynecology at theHumanitas Mater Domini Hospital.
Period: when it’s not “normal”
“Some women have a heavier or longer flow but not for this reason menorrhagic. You have to be careful though, because over 80 milliliters is never “normal”. To give a practical example, one must be alert if three absorbent pads need to be changed within an hour. Another parameter that should make us suspicious are the possibles blood clots. Such large losses can lead to a iron deficiency. Unfortunately, women tend to get anemia, with blood hemoglobin levels too low. In these cases, symptoms such as tiredness, fatigue, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating», explains the expert.
The possible causes
«There can be many causes of hypermenorrhea. For example an alteration of the axis that regulates the menstrual system, ie hypothalamus- pituitary- ovary. The consequence is dysfunctional bleeding. Even the thyroid disease, which falls within this axis, may lead to hypermenorrhea. Among the possible causes, there are then the gynecological diseases real, like endometriosis, polyps, myomas as well as tumours. Even some systemic diseaseswhich do not concern the gynecological sphere, such ascoagulation disorder, they can carry a heavy flow. Especially if you haven’t had a visit recently, it’s a good idea to contact your gynecologist who will go and investigate widely», suggests Dr. Lauletta.
The remedies at the table
“If you find a iron deficiencythe first thing to do is resort to a supplement, the ferrous sulfate. Also nutrition can helpsupplementing the diet with Red meat And foods rich in folateas green salad, broccoli, spinach, chard, endivebut also asparagus, artichokes, rocket, legumes and citrus fruits. Folic acid is also found to a lesser extent in hazelnuts, walnuts and pistachios. The presence of him is fundamental the right iron absorption by the organism», continues the expert.
Be careful in the summer
“Hypermenorrhea in summer it is even more difficult to manage. At sea, a heavy flow is surely an unwanted companion. But beyond this practical aspect, it is necessary to do beware of possible dehydration. With blood, in fact, we lose an important amount of liquids. The hypotensive attacks due to low blood pressure may be more frequent. It is necessary avoid exposure during hot hours, hydrate well And wear light clothing», concludes Dr. Lauletta.
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