Many women grow up being told to “deal with it” when it comes to cramps, irregular periods, or mood swings. But not all period symptoms are normal — and some may point to underlying health issues that deserve attention.
Here are key menstrual health red flags that women shouldn’t ignore, and what they could mean for your body:
1. Extremely Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)
While mild cramps are common, severe pain that disrupts your daily life isn't. If you’re relying on painkillers every cycle or missing school, work, or social events due to period pain, it could be a sign of:
Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it.
Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the reproductive organs.
2. Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
Soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row, passing large clots, or bleeding for more than 7 days can indicate heavy menstrual bleeding. This could be due to:
Hormonal imbalances
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Thyroid issues
Bleeding disorders
Excessive bleeding can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Red flag: Needing to double up on protection or waking up at night to change pads.
3. Irregular or Missed Periods
A cycle that frequently changes in length, or missing periods altogether (when not pregnant, breastfeeding, or menopausal), can signal:
PCOS
Stress or eating disorders
Thyroid dysfunction
Premature ovarian insufficiency
4. Spotting Between Periods
While occasional spotting isn’t uncommon, frequent bleeding between periods could be a red flag. Possible causes include:
Uterine fibroids or polyps
Infections
Hormonal contraception side effects
Cervical or endometrial cancer
5. Foul-Smelling or Unusual Discharge
Your vagina has a natural scent, and some discharge is normal. But if you notice a strong, fishy odor, green or yellow discharge, or irritation, it could indicate:
Bacterial vaginosis
Yeast infection
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
6. Sudden Changes in Your Period
If your cycle suddenly becomes heavier, lighter, longer, shorter, or unusually painful, it’s a sign something has shifted in your body. Reasons might include:
Stress
Medication changes
Perimenopause (even as early as your 30s)
Underlying medical conditions
7. Mood Swings That Affect Your Quality of Life
Mild irritability or sadness before your period is common, but extreme emotional changes, anger, depression, or anxiety that interfere with daily functioning may be signs of:
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A severe form of PMS that affects mental health.
Hormonal imbalances
Underlying mental health concerns worsened by hormonal changes
Why This Matters
Ignoring menstrual health concerns can delay diagnosis of serious conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, or even reproductive cancers. What starts as a “nuisance” could lead to fertility issues, chronic pain, or complications that impact your quality of life.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Your period suddenly changes in pattern, flow, or pain level
You miss multiple periods in a row
You experience pain, bloating, or discomfort that’s new or worsening
You feel emotionally unstable or depressed around your cycle
You’re over 25 and haven’t had a pelvic exam or pap smear in a while
If you’re experiencing menstrual issues, consult a gynecologist or healthcare professional. You deserve answers — and relief.
