Dealing with Menstrual Irregularities: Help Guide for OOU Students

As a student, juggling academics, social life, and other responsibilities can be overwhelming.

Menstrual irregularities are common, and understanding what’s normal and what might need attention can help you feel more in control of your health.

Here’s a guide to understanding menstrual irregularities and when to seek help.

Menstrual Irregularities

A “regular” menstrual cycle usually lasts between 21 to 35 days, with bleeding lasting about 3 to 7 days.

However, irregular periods mean your cycle length or flow changes frequently.

You might have skipped cycles, had unusually heavy or light periods, or had periods that come earlier or later than usual.

While occasional irregularities are often harmless, frequent changes can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.

Common Causes of Menstrual Irregularities

Several factors can influence your menstrual cycle, including:

1. Stress: University life can be stressful, with academic demands, deadlines, and other pressures. High-stress levels can affect hormone production, leading to delayed or missed periods.
2. Diet and Exercise: Eating habits and exercise routines can impact your cycle. Over-exercising, under-eating, or eating too much-processed food can disrupt hormones.
3. Weight Changes: Significant weight gain or loss can affect menstruation. If you’ve noticed changes in your weight, this may be a factor in your irregular cycles.
4. Medical Conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or uterine fibroids can disrupt menstrual regularity. If you’re experiencing other symptoms, such as severe cramps, unusual hair growth, or significant weight changes, consider speaking to a healthcare professional.
5. Birth Control: Birth control pills or other contraceptives can influence your menstrual cycle. While some methods help regulate your cycle, others can cause missed periods or changes in flow.

Tracking Your Cycle

Keeping track of your menstrual cycle is essential for understanding your pattern.

You can use apps like Clue or Flo, or a simple calendar to log your start and end dates.

Tracking helps you notice any irregularities, patterns, or changes over time, which is helpful if you need to discuss your cycle with a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Help

Menstrual irregularities are common, but it’s essential to know when to consult a healthcare provider.

Visit the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) if you experience:

1. Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days consistently
2. Very heavy bleeding, where you need to change a pad or tampon every 1-2 hours
3. Periods that last more than 7 days
4. Severe pain that isn’t relieved by over-the-counter painkillers
5. Spotting or bleeding between periods
6. Other unusual symptoms, like hair loss, acne, or significant weight changes

DHS healthcare providers can guide you on whether your symptoms need further investigation.

Managing Menstrual Irregularities

If you’re dealing with irregular periods, there are ways to help manage them:

1. Reduce Stress: Practicing stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or regular physical activity, can make a difference. Take breaks when you need them, and consider reaching out for support if university life feels overwhelming.
2. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eating nutritious foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can help stabilise your hormone levels. Limit processed foods and refined sugars.
3. Get Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep can affect your menstrual cycle. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support your overall health and hormone regulation.
4. Exercise Moderately: While physical activity is beneficial, over-exercising can disrupt your cycle. Aim for moderate exercise like walking, jogging, or yoga.

Visit Health Services for Menstrual Health

The DHS exists to support you with any health concerns, including menstrual irregularities.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Appointment: Visit any of our facilities for a consultation to be reviewed by a doctor.
2. Prepare Your Questions: Write down any symptoms you’ve noticed. The more details you can provide, the better the healthcare provider can help.
3. Discuss Your Lifestyle: Mention any recent changes in diet, exercise, stress, or sleep. These factors can often provide clues to understanding your irregular cycles.

Final Thoughts

Menstrual irregularities are common, and many students experience them.

By taking steps to manage your health, track your cycle, and seek support when needed, you can better understand your body and make informed choices about your well-being.

Dealing with menstrual irregularities can be stressful, but you have support at OOU.

If you’re experiencing unusual or disruptive menstrual symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

The DHS team will guide you and ensure you have the resources to stay healthy and succeed in your studies.