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Menstrual health refers to physical, mental, and social well being in relation to a woman’s menstrual cycle. This includes proper hygiene, comfort, and safety during the menstrual cycle as well as access to information about the menstrual cycle.
Menstrual Health falls under theWomen’s Healthcategory.
Last Updated:July 6, 2023
The menstrual cycle is a regulated sequence of events that prepares the female body for potential pregnancy; it consists of the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase, which are driven by hormonal communication within the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. It typically begins around age 12, recurs every 24 to 38 days, and ceases at menopause, during pregnancy, and often during lactation.
Menstrual cycle health is assessed through various methods, including tracking the frequency, regularity, duration, and volume of menstruation, as well as hormonal measurements and imaging techniques. Abnormalities may prompt further evaluations, such as blood tests and ultrasounds, to identify underlying issues.
Regular exercise can help alleviate menstrual pain and shorten the duration of menstruation; however, excessive exercise may lead to menstrual irregularities or absence, indicating a potential condition known as relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S), which requires clinical evaluation. The consequences of RED-S can be serious and long lasting.
Supplements that have been studied for for menstrual cycle health often aim to correct deficiencies and alleviate the symptoms associated with conditions like premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea; vitamin D, iron, and various other supplements also show potential benefits. It is crucial to evaluate menstrual-related symptoms with a clinician before starting any supplements because some can cause harm if taken in excess.
A nutritious diet — one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish, and plant compounds and limits alcohol, red and processed meats, and caffeine — supports menstrual cycle health and is associated with fewer menstrual-related disorders. Additionally, diet influences the timing of menarche (or the first menses), malnourishment delays it, and obesity leads to an earlier onset.
The menstrual cycle is influenced by a variety of internal factors (such as genetics and age) and external factors (including environmental exposures and lifestyle choices) that can affect its length, regularity, and symptoms. Psychological stress is a significant factor that can be targeted through interventions like acupuncture and cognitive behavioral therapy to help restore normal menstrual function and improve related symptoms.
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