Ways To Manage Problems During Periods: For many women, menstruation is a natural part of life but it can bring along some challenges that affect their daily routine and well-being. From physical discomfort to emotional fluctuations, the range of issues faced during periods can vary greatly from one person to another. Understanding these common problems and knowing how to manage them effectively can help ease the experience. 

Common problems during periods are heavy bleeding, scanty periods, irregular periods, severe pain during periods and premenstrual syndrome. See a gynaecologist for all these problems for which few investigations will be done to make a diagnosis for proper treatment.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr Neema Sharma, Director & Unit Head Minimal Access Gynaecology, Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj listed common problems experienced during periods and how they can be managed effectively. 

Ways To Manage Problems During Periods

Diet  

Diet plays a very important role in the menstrual cycle. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and vitamin D, a diet low in salt and caffeine helps reduce menstrual pain.  Vitamin B6, eating smaller meals and drinking plenty of water help reduce premenstrual symptoms. A diet high in iron and vitamin C will treat anaemia in patients with heavy bleeding. Foods that are low in sugar and fat and have a low glycemic index help in PCOS patients

Exercise

Regular exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles by improving weight management, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance. For women with PCOS who want to prevent weight gain and maintain health, 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity activity or just over an hour of high-intensity activity per week should be done.

Aerobic exercise, like walking, swimming, or cycling, can help improve blood circulation and release endorphins which helps with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and mood swings. Irregular or missed periods are more common in athletes and other women who train hard regularly. Lifestyle modification like reducing stress. Getting enough sleep is important for regular periods.  

Supplements  

  • Magnesium and Vitamin B6 can help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, water retention and breast tenderness.
  • Calcium, Zinc and Vitamin D help with bloating, fatigue, mood swings and cramps. 
  • Omega-3 fatty acids help with inflammation associated with painful cramps.
  • Iron: helps in  anaemia,due to  heavy bleeding
  • Natural supplements berberine, chromium and inositol improve many of the symptoms and issues related to PCOS.  

Alternative medicine like acupuncture and relaxation techniques help with severe pain and premenstrual symptoms.

While menstruation can bring along various challenges, there are numerous strategies available to manage common problems such as cramps, heavy bleeding, PMS, mood swings, bloating and acne. Understanding your body’s needs and making small lifestyle changes including diet, exercise, stress management and proper hydration can significantly alleviate these symptoms. 

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