Menstruation occurs as part of a woman’s monthly cycle. it’s vaginal bleeding which is normal. when the egg from the ovary is not fertilized to become pregnant, the uterus (womb) sheds its lining which comes out of the vaginal with blood.
Menstrual bleeding usually lasts from three to five days. along with bleeding, menstruation also comes with:
Headaches and fatigue
mood swings
food craving
abdominal cramping
lower back pain
Food to ease uncomfortable symptoms of menstruation
- Food that contains iron and protein like chicken and fish, are generally good for the body and help replace iron loss during menstruation. While omega-3 fatty acids in fish help subside menstrual pain.
- Drink a lot of water is helpful to keep you hydrated and free from a dehydration headache.
- Consume more leafy green vegetables, especially if you have a heavy flow. They also contain iron.
- Ginger tea and turmeric also help to reduce menstrual pains
- Generally, eat dark chocolates, nuts, beans, lentils, and yogurt.
Why do you have a period?
The period is simply a way in which your body gets rid of tissues it does not need anymore. So why is the tissue no longer needed? Well, your body prepares for pregnancy every month, in the pre-ovulation stage, your brain sends a message to the reproductive organs to produce estrogen and progesterone. Both hormones are responsible for the release of eggs and the thickening of the lining of the uterus(endometrium). When the egg is released to the fallopian tube (ovulation) and it is not fertilized then the endometrium is no longer needed. The tissue (endometrium) then starts to break down and eventually comes out through the vagina with blood.
Can infection delay your period?
An infection may not impact your cycle on a hormonal level, but it can cause bleeding making you think you are getting your period more frequently than normal. Bacterial infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease and sexually transmitted infections can inflame and cause the inside of your uterus to bleed. Infection also causes you to bleed between your regular period. Infection can delay the period, in some cases lead to the absence of the period by scarring the lining of the uterus which hinders the building and shedding of the uterus.
Reasons for late period
- Too much stress and anxiety can affect that part of your brain that regulates hormones for ovulation and menstruation.
- when you gain or lost weight
- Too much exercise or restriction of calorie
- Some medical conditions like thyroid disorder, std, etc.
- Starting or stopping birth control pills.
- Pregnancy
Infection and women menstruation
Infection in the pelvic organ is the main cause of abnormal vagina bleeding and it comes with fever. During menstruation or menstrual cycle, infection-like bacteria can travel into and infect the uterus and fallopian tube.
Do you have a pelvic infection?
There is a certain symptom that suggests an infection in the pelvic organ and they include:
- Vaginal discharge with a foul smell
- Fever
- Pelvic pain that shows up during intercourse
- Bleeding in-between period.
Who is at high risk of having a pelvic infection?
- women who are sexually active most especially those with more than one sex partner.
- Women who have had a history of pelvic inflammatory disease
- Diabetes patient or if you have received chemotherapy
- if you have an intrauterine device inserted for 3 months
- if you have ever had a sexually transmitted infection
- if you use steroids.
Why pelvic infection should be treated immediately
- To prevent infertility
- To Prevent infection from spreading to other parts of the body
- To prevent scarring of the fallopian tube.
- To reduce the spread of infection.
- To reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy
Conclusion
Infection requires quick treatment once it is notice, being one of the leading cause of infertility. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of infection like pain in your abdomen or during urination, itching of the vagina, unusual discharge, and so on. you are advised to see your doctor to ascertain what the problem could be and a possible solution.