5 Things your period tells about your health.
Menstruation is a necessary biological process, periods or menstrual cycle is one of the taboo topics in some African societies.
There are several practices, rituals and myths associated with the menstrual cycle that leaves a strong impact on the women s and girl s lifestyle, health and mental state. Many girls are unaware of the reproductive system, menstruation and puberty. It is important for a woman to understand their menstrual cycle as it reveals a lot about their health. You need to look at the used sanitary pad before you throw it into a dustbin. The symptoms and flow of your period will tell you a lot about your health. Here is a list of changes and symptoms that you may notice in your period and what it means..
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1. Sudden heavy blood flow
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If you have a heavier than usual blood flow during your periods or your period extended more than seven days, it could be because of fibroid or polyp. So, it is important to consult your doctor if your experience the above-mentioned conditions.
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2. Bleeding in between periods
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Spotting
Bleeding in between your periods is known as spotting and is common among women taking birth control pills. Other reasons for spotting could be an infection, hormonal imbalance, stress and cancer. So, check with your doctor as soon as possible..
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3. Color of the period blood
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If the color of your period blood is a lighter shade of red, it could indicate that the levels of estrogen in your body are low. You may also experience late periods as the lining of the uterus will be thin. In case your period blood is dark red it may mean that the estrogen levels are high. You may experience heavy bleeding during period. Talk to your doctor to better understand the condition.4
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4. Severe menstrual cramps
Severe cramps
During menstruation, your uterus contracts and this causes cramps. This is normal but is you experience cramp, which interferes with your daily routine then it could be due to endometriosis. It is a condition in which the tissue that must grow inside the uterus, grows outside. Other symptoms of this condition are constipation, nausea and heavy bleeding during periods..
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5. Missed period
The first thought that comes to your mind when you miss your period is that you are pregnant. However, there are many other reasons for a missed period. You may miss your period if your body fat is low, you exercise too much or you are obese. Other reasons may include decreased function of ovaries, over-functioning thyroid gland or brain tumor.