- By Priyanka Munshi
- Wed, 29 May 2024 03:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Do you know that there are several connections between menstrual health and cancer that are crucial to comprehend for overall health? Menstrual irregularities, such as heavy bleeding, painful periods, or absent periods, can occasionally be early indicators of reproductive health problems, such as cancers of the ovary, uterus, or cervix. Frequent monitoring of menstrual health can aid in the early identification of certain malignancies and their prompt treatment.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and basic hygiene can also help maintain good menstrual health, which lowers the risk of developing these diseases. Therefore, it is imperative to recognize and swiftly address menstrual health issues to prevent cancer and promote overall reproductive health. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Priyanka Suhag, a consultant in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, talked about what every woman should know about cancer and menstrual health:
According to Dr. Priyanka, maintaining menstrual health is crucial not only for comfort but also for overall well-being, and it can have implications for cancer prevention and detection.
Cervical Cancer: Menstrual health practices can influence the risk of cervical cancer. Poor hygiene may contribute to infections like HPV, a leading cause of cervical cancer. Regular screenings (Pap smears) and HPV vaccinations are essential preventive measures.
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Endometrial Cancer: Prolonged exposure to unopposed estrogen due to irregular menstruation can increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Women experiencing abnormal bleeding should seek medical advice promptly.
Ovarian Cancer: While less directly related to menstrual hygiene, awareness of menstrual irregularities and related symptoms (bloating, pelvic pain) can aid in the early detection of ovarian cancer.
Breast Cancer: Hormonal balance, influenced by menstrual health, plays a role in breast cancer risk. Maintaining a regular cycle through healthy practices and monitoring for any changes is important.
General Well-Being: Good menstrual hygiene supports overall reproductive health, potentially reducing the risk of various cancers by preventing infections and promoting early detection of abnormalities.
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Education And Awareness: Educating women about proper menstrual hygiene and the importance of regular medical check-ups can significantly impact the early detection and prevention of reproductive cancers.