I have irregular periods and unbearable menstrual cramps every time. What should I do?

I have irregular periods and unbearable menstrual cramps every time. What should I do?

I'm a 14-year-old girl and I have had my period for about a year-and-a-half now. It has always been regular — coming every 29 days, very light with no cramps, lasting for only 3 or 4 days. But since the past 5 or 6 months, my period has been extremely irregular. I have no idea when to expect it. Sometimes, it's every 2 weeks. Also, it has been lasting for 6-8 days and the cramps seem unbearable. I'm still new to the whole thing. Should I go see a doctor? I'm really worried.

Answered by Dr Sadhna Singhal

During the first two years of menarche (onset of menstrual cycles), 50% of the menstrual cycles can be anovulatories wherein no ovulation take place. You may now have entered the ovulation phase which is generally accompanied by pain and cramps. So, do not worry about the pain, it's just a normal phenomenon. However, as you are having irregular periods, just to be on the safer side, get an ultrasound of the lower abdomen done to rule out your chances of diseases like PCOD, etc.

tip:

In order to relieve menstrual pain, follow these tips.

Include a glass of milk in your breakfast. Calcium is a good cure for cramps. If you are not such a 'milk' person or are lactose intolerant about 600mg (2-4 tablets) of calcium chewables should do the trick.Indulge in generous helpings of papaya during and before your periods. Papaya contains 'papain' an enzyme that helps to regulate and helps to ease the flow during menstruation.Carrots are not only good for your eyes; they also assist in regulating menstruation. A tall glass of carrot juice can go a long way in making you feel much better.Aloe Vera juice with honey is also well known to ease the flow and reducing the pain.Avoid red meat and caffeine. They have properties that exacerbate the pain.

For more tips, .

Dr Sadhna Singhal is a senior consultant of obstetrics and gynaecology at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute. She has special training in endoscopic (laparoscopic) surgeries and has performed various high-risk gynaecological and obstetrical operations. She has also conducted many major laparoscopic, hysteroscopic surgeries including laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomies and total laparoscopic hysterectomies. Dr Sadhna is a member of the Association of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists of Delhi (AOGD), Indian Medical Association and Delhi Medical Association and National Association for Reproductive and Child Health of India (NARCHI).