Menstrual Disorders
Treating Menstrual Disorders in Northern Colorado
Menstrual disorders often disrupt a woman’s life with detrimental physical and emotional symptoms. From heavy bleeding to unmanageable mood swings, menstrual disorders are a big issue for many women. Millions of women get normal monthly periods, but millions of other women face disorders. The Women’s Clinic of Northern Colorado is here to help women in Fort Collins and Loveland with menstrual disorders. Many menstrual cycle problems are easily diagnosed and treated. If the time before and during your period is overwhelming, contact us for guidance. We’ll help you choose the best treatment to meet your needs.
Symptoms Of Menstrual Disorders
Some of the most common symptoms of menstrual disorders include:
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) –One of the most common disorders, PMS is often identified by cramps, emotional issues, headaches, and other minor physical problems.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) –PMDD often involves severe physical and emotional discomfort before menstruation.
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding –Abnormal bleeding occurs when a patient’s menstrual bleeding is prolonged or excessive.
- Amenorrhea –When there is no bleeding for an extended amount of time, a woman may suffer from Amenorrhea.
- Oligomenorrhea –Oligomenorrhea occurs when periods are infrequent or light.
- Fibroids –Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors in the uterus.
The Menstrual Cycle and Your Body
During your menstrual cycle, a menstrual period is normal. It involves your ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breast. Every 28 days, on average, a woman has her menstrual period. The first day of bleeding is the first day of your menstrual period. The most common menstrual period lasts about five to seven days. It’s important to remember many women are different, and there might not be an issue if your cycle differs from another woman.
Causes Of Menstrual Disorders
Many factors can cause menstrual disorders, including:
- Uterine fibroids
- Hormonal imbalances
- Clotting disorders
- Cancer
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Genetics
Diagnosis of Menstrual Disorders
Most menstrual disorders can be diagnosed with a physical exam and Pap smear. Additional testing includes:
- Blood Tests
- Endometrial Biopsy
- Hormonal Tests
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the uterus
- Dilation and Curettage (D&C) to scrape the inside of the lining of the uterus and cervix
- Hysteroscopy using a telescope inserted into the vagina and cervix
- Laparoscopy using an instrument with a camera inserted through an abdominal incision
Treatment Of Menstrual Disorders
The treatment for each patient’s menstrual disorder depends on the cause and other factors. Some are simple while others are more complex, including:
- Dietary Changes –Women can reduce caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and salt.
- Medical Treatment –By taking pain relievers and hormonal contraceptives, many women reduce heavy bleeding.
- Surgical Treatment – Some patients choose surgical routes of an endometrial ablation to break down the lining of the uterus to stop periods and a hysterectomy or removal of the uterus.
Contact Us for an Appointment
The Women’s Clinic of Northern Colorado welcomes you for women’s health screenings and services. Don’t let menstrual disorders take over your everyday life. Your health and wellbeing are our first priority. We’ll help diagnose and treat your menstrual disorders so that you can live a healthy and normal lifestyle. We welcome any questions or concerns. At The Women’s Clinic of Northern Colorado, we’re dedicated to ensuring women have the knowledge and supplies they need to live a healthy lifestyle. We accept most major credit cards and insurance providers. Contact us today to learn more.