Hey ladies! Let’s talk periods, shall we? It’s something we all go through, but it’s not always smooth sailing. Here, we’ll break down what your menstrual cycle is all about, and how understanding it can seriously boost your overall health. Think of this as a chat with a friend, where we get real about our bodies and the unique journey we each take every month.
Why Your Period Matters: More Than Just Bleeding
Did you know your menstrual cycle is like a monthly report card for your body? Regular periods, from puberty until menopause, mean your body is working just as it should. It’s a sign that your hormones are dancing to the right tune. But what happens when things go off-key? Period problems, like irregular or painful periods, may be a red flag, signalling underlying health issues. These issues can range from affecting your chances of getting pregnant to increasing your risks of certain chronic diseases. Let’s dig into what this means for us.
How Your Cycle Affects Your Mood and Energy
Ever felt like you’re riding a rollercoaster every month? That’s your hormones at play! Throughout your cycle, these powerful chemicals can affect you emotionally, mentally, and physically. It’s like your body has its own little weather system, and knowing what to expect can help you navigate the ups and downs.
The Energetic First Half
The first two weeks of your cycle (starting from the first day of your period) tend to be a time of high energy. Ever noticed how you might feel more focused and have a higher pain tolerance after your period? Your memory might even be sharper. This is the perfect time to nail that presentation or tackle a tough task. In fact, it’s a good time to schedule a pap test since your cervical fluid is thinnest then. Who knew periods could actually be advantageous?
The Sluggish Second Half
After ovulation, things may shift. You might find yourself feeling a bit forgetful, or like you are dragging your feet. This is completely normal, and it is all due to the fluctuations in your hormones. Interestingly, if you have other health conditions, like depression, irritable bowel syndrome, or asthma, these symptoms may get worse just before your period starts. Also, if you have diabetes, it is important to know that your glucose levels may be harder to control. So, this is a good time to be extra gentle with yourself and your body.
Did you know that during this time, your brain’s serotonin levels may drop, making you crave sugary and starchy foods? Don’t beat yourself up over those cravings! Just listen to your body, and perhaps opt for some healthier alternatives.
Period Problems and What They Could Mean
Sometimes our bodies send us signals that things aren’t quite right. Here are some period problems that may indicate underlying health issues:
- Anemia: If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, it could lead to iron deficiency anemia, which can make you feel tired and weak.
- Asthma: For some, asthma symptoms may worsen at certain points in your cycle.
- Depression: If you’ve had depression, you might be more prone to PMS or PMDD, and your symptoms may feel more intense before your period.
- Diabetes: Irregular cycles, particularly those longer than 40 days, may increase your risk for type 2 diabetes. And, if you are under the age of 22, you are even more at risk. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may be the link between irregular periods and diabetes.
- Heart disease and stroke: In menopause, when your ovaries stop producing estrogen, your risk of heart disease and stroke may go up, as estrogen provides protection against them.
- Osteoporosis: Lack of estrogen may also lead to a loss of bone mass, increasing your risk of osteoporosis.
- Infertility: Conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or PCOS may make it harder to conceive.
Let’s be real: How our weight impacts our cycle
Our weight plays a vital role in the health of our menstrual cycle. If you are underweight, your body might stop ovulating, which could lead to irregular or no periods. This is because your body fat may drop too low. Women with anorexia often experience this. A lack of estrogen from not ovulating can lead to serious health issues.
On the other hand, if you’re overweight, you are also more likely to experience irregular or missed periods, or face difficulties in conceiving. That’s because extra weight can cause your body to produce too much estrogen, which can interfere with ovulation.
How periods impact pregnancy
Not all period problems impact pregnancy. But, some period problems can cause infertility. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of trying (or six months for women over 35). Irregular or missed periods are often linked to anovulation (not ovulating), the most common cause of infertility. If you’re experiencing painful, long, or heavy periods, it may indicate issues that could affect your ability to conceive. For example, PCOS is a major cause of heavy bleeding that can impact fertility.
Taking Control of Your Cycle: Tips for Kenyan Women
So, what can we do? Here are a few actionable tips to help you take charge of your menstrual health:
- Track Your Cycle: Keeping a menstrual diary will help you understand your body’s rhythms and can help your doctor identify patterns or potential issues. Note when your period starts and ends, the flow, and any pain you experience.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Whether you need to gain or lose weight, reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can greatly improve your cycle.
- Manage Pain: Period cramps are incredibly common. If over-the-counter medication like naproxen or ibuprofen helps, it’s best to take it right before or as soon as your period starts.
- Know When to Seek Help: If you’re struggling with heavy bleeding, severe pain, or irregular cycles, talk to a doctor or nurse. There is no shame in asking for help. They can provide treatment options like hormonal birth control, and assess whether there are underlying issues that need attention.
- Don’t Smoke: Kicking the habit can improve your overall health and menstrual cycle.
- Talk About It: We are in this together! Talking to your friends, family, or healthcare providers about your periods can break the stigma and help you feel less alone.
A Note on Birth Control
If you are not trying to get pregnant, it’s essential to discuss birth control options with your doctor. Hormonal birth control methods like IUDs, pills, shots, or vaginal rings, not only prevent pregnancy but can also help manage period issues.
Wrapping Up: Your Body, Your Story
Your menstrual cycle is a powerful indicator of your overall health. It affects your emotions, energy levels, and even your risk for certain conditions. By understanding your cycle and adopting healthy habits, you can take better care of yourself and thrive.
Remember, you know your body best. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek advice and support from trusted health professionals and loved ones. It’s your journey, your story, and you are not alone.
Now go forth, embrace your amazing body, and keep being the strong, beautiful Kenyan woman you are!
