Menstruation is a normal process but can vary and even be abnormal. Knowing the meaning of different terminology for menstrual cycles and their differences can allow one to better understand their body. Most women experience some abnormality with their periods at some point, and so typically it is not something to worry about. However, knowing what is considered abnormal and what the common side effects are can be a good indicator if a person should have a talk with their doctor.
Menarche
A menarche is another word for a first period. The average age for the beginning of menstruation is twelve or thirteen. People can start menstruating at as young as nine, though. Those who have not menstruated by the age of seventeen or eighteen should see their doctors.
Premenstrual syndrome
Premenstrual syndrome, (PMS) begins about a week or two before someone starts their period. Some may experience breast tenderness, mood swings, depression, food cravings, fatigue or insomnia, bloating, backache, headache, or cramps. Cramps are caused by the uterine lining being torn from the walls of the uterus. Molecular components known as prostaglandins are released, causing the uterine muscles to contract. PMS normally subsides shortly after menstruation starts. While a lot of people do experience PMS symptoms, some are fortunate enough not to. Everyone is different.
Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea is a synonym for menstrual cramps. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual cramps with no underlying reproductive problems. People may begin experiencing cramps from six months to two years after their menarche. The severity of cramps can change with age. Secondary dysmenorrhea is when menstrual cramps are severe and caused by an underlying reproductive issue, such as endometriosis.
Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia is abnormally heavy or lengthy bleeding. People with menorrhagia sometimes have to change pads or tampons in the middle of the night. They commonly soak through pads or tampons very quickly, and often pass blood clots for longer than a day. Menorrhagia can cause anemia, if severe. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, especially in teenagers. It can also be caused by other problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. People should see their doctors if their menstrual flow causes them to change their usual activities.
Polymenorrhea
Polymenorrhea is defined as an abnormal regulation of menstrual bleeding. It occurs when the menstrual cycle is less than 21 days long. An average menstrual cycle is between 21 and 35 days between periods. The occurrence of polymenorrhea can be frustrating as a person will experience more periods per year than the average.
Oligomenorrhea
If your periods are very light and infrequent, you may be experiencing oligomenorrhea. It is typically diagnosed when a person’s menstrual cycle is longer than 35 days. This is often caused by birth control pills and could potentially be fixed by switching to another brand or method of contraception.
Amenorrhea
Like oligomenorrhea, this is also a term for infrequent periods. A diagnosis is made when people do not have a period for over 90 days. This is considered an absence of a period, and should be consulted by a doctor. Girls who have not had their first period by the age of 15 can also be diagnosed with amenorrhea.
Menopause
Menopause is the complete absence of a period for 12 months. It typically occurs after age 51, however some people begin menopause as young as their 30’s or as late as their 60’s. Menopause is a completely natural part of aging. Menopause can cause hot flashes, mood changes, and abnormal uterine bleeding. Once menopause beings, a person can no longer become pregnant and will not experience periods for the rest of their lifetime.
Easing PMS symptoms and reducing pain
It is suggested to stay close to home to stay comfortable while PMSing. If possible, try to save big discussions or decisions until after menstruating. Emotions and hormonal changes can easily cause illogical thinking and impulsive behaviors. When struggling with mood swings, remember that these are temporary. Do something nice for yourself and indulge in some chocolate to help improve your mood. Anything warm such as heating pads, hot water bottles, or warm showers can help with backaches and cramps. Some companies like ThermaCare sell disposable heating pads that stick to the inside of your underwear, which can also help with pain relief. Over the counter medications can help too, such as Midol or Pamprin.
This thread has more ways to reduce menstrual related pain.
It can be difficult when menstruation, a normal process, seems anything but normal. Understanding the meaning of the menstruation terminology listed above will help you to determine whether or not what you're experiencing is normal or abnormal. If you have any questions, ask a trusted adult or speak to a professional.
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