Menstrual Problems
Here are some of the more common types of menstrual problems:
Painful menstruation is common among adolescent females. Pain occurs just before the onset of the menstrual flow and lasts for periods of up to two days, seldom longer. This condition is associated with an increased production and concentration of prostaglandin (an active principle obtained from the prostate gland and seminal vesicles) which is a pressor (increasing the activity of a function) a vasodilator (causing dilation of blood vessels) and stimulant to the intestinal and uterine muscles) in the endometrium (the mucous membrane that lines the cavity of the uterus) during the luteal and menstrual phases of the cycle. This results in hypercontractility of uterine muscle during a painful and difficult menstruation.
Menstrual Cramping Formula Tincture - contains Black Cohosh, Wood Betony, Blessed Thistle, Chamomile, Fennel, Ginger, Cayenne, R/O Water, 12% Alcohol. Useful for cramping - Digestive/Menstrual/Muscular.
Excessive menstruation is often caused by nutritional deficiencies so supplement with Iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Shepherds Purse. Also have a thyroid test to ensure hypothyroidism is not the main cause.
(amenhorrea)
There are two types of amenorrhea: primary amenorrhea refers to the situation when a young woman has not begun to menstruate by the age of 16; secondary amenorrhea refers to the situation when a woman who previously experienced menstrual periods suddenly ceases to have them. Prolonged amenorrhea can lead to early bone loss and osteoporosis, in some cases. Amenorrhea occurs naturally in breast feeding women and does not pose a threat to bone health.
Amenorrhea occurs when there is not enough hormones in a woman’s body to stimulate menstruation. This condition is associated with malnutrition, as with anorexia nervosa, or when excessive exercise puts extreme nutritional demands on the body. Stress, rapid weight loss and a low concentration of body fat can also have a negative effect on normal menstruation. Amenorrhea can also be a sign of serious disorders of the ovaries, pituitary gland or hypothalamus.
Eat a healthy diet, get an adequate amount of exercise and avoid stress. Be sure to get plenty of sleep. Smoking and substance abuse have been linked to amenorrhea, so avoid tobacco products and other stimulants.
Progesterone has been shown to induce normal menstrual bleeding in women with secondary amenorrhea.
Acetyl-L-carnitine is an amino acid that can improve hormone levels in women with low initial levels.
Calcium and Vitamin D prevent bone loss.
Blue Cohosh stimulates menstrual flow.
Motherwort and Yarrow stimulate absent or light periods.
Vitex Agnus-castis (Chaste tree) reduces elevated prolactin levels that can cause amenorrhea.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, salt and sugar
- Increase fresh fruit and vegetable consumption
- Exercise in moderation
- Relaxation therapy - meditation, massage and acupuncture
NOTE- If your periods are irregular or, in the case of perimenopausal women your period stops and starts, ask your health care practitioner about the herbs 'Beth Root' and 'Schisandra' - both can be very effective in promoting a regular menstrual cycle.