A comparative study conducted in
Saudi Arabia reported that 53.4% of girls in government schools and 67.9% in
private schools have knowledge of menstruation, according to a research paper
published in the Journal of Nursing Education and Practice in September 2015.
The study also revealed that the primary source of information about mesntruation
for young girls is their mothers. The topic of menses is still considered a
taboo and is often discussed in hushed tones and behind closed doors. Periods
are a natural process, with which the female body sheds waste material every month
and a normal menstrual cycle is also an important indicator of a healthy female
body.
Causes of Menorrhagia
Every menstruating woman must know
about the various abnormalities that can occur during her menstrual cycle, so
that she is able to identify and act upon them as soon as possible. If you are experiencing
heavy blood flow during your periods, you need to visit your doctor today. Heavy
blood flow (also known as menorrhagia) can be identified by the need to change sanitary
napkins every hour or two. You might have to change your sanitary napkin during
the night as well. In such cases, you should know that this is not normal and should
be addressed immediately. Heavy blood
flow can lead to anaemia, fatigue and weakness. Given below are some of the
causes of menorrhagia:
·
Hormonal
Imbalance – Hormonal imbalance of progesterone
and estrogen may kead to the endometrium (uterus lining) building in excess,
which is then shed in the form of heavy bleeding during periods.
·
Uterine
Fibroids and Polyps – These are benign
growths in the uterus that may cause prolonged or heavy bleeding.
·
IUD
– Heavy bleeding is a known side-effect of non-hormonal intra-uterine devices.
·
Other
Medical Conditions – Menorrhagia may also
be a consequence of medical conditions, such as poly cystic ovarian syndrome,
adenomyosis, in which the glands from the endometrium become embedded in the
uterine wall, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, infection of the
uterus, fallopian tubes and other organs of the reproductive system.
Dysfunction of the ovaries may also result in menorrhagia.
Blood flow during menses may also
be affected by certain medications. If you experience it over and over again,
then chances are that you might have inherited the condition from your mother. Heavy
bleeding during menstruation may be accompanied by stomach pain and cramps. If
the condition persists, you must see a doctor. Generally, the cause is
identified and treated through medication. Surgery might be needed in severe
cases.