Your Period - What's Normal, What's Not

UHCS Services

UHCS provides evaluation and treatment for menstrual disorders (problems with your period). This may include evaluation of things such as why you aren’t getting a period when expected (including pregnancy testing), menstrual cramps, PMS, or heavy menstrual bleeding. You can make an appointment with UHCS here: Web-book.  

Overview

Did you know that your period is often considered one of your vital signs, like blood pressure and pulse? In fact, your period (or lack thereof) is an important indicator of your health status. For example, if you’re under a lot of stress, or not consuming enough calories compared to what you’re using, you may not get your period on a regular basis. In addition, the lack of a regular period does NOT mean you can’t get pregnant. If you’re sexually active and you go more than 6 weeks without your period, you should be tested.

Other times, your period may come TOO often or cause disruptions in your life. Birth control pills and other hormonal contraceptives can be the cause of some of these problems, particularly in the first few months of use, but are also often the solution. Hormonal contraceptives help to regulate your period so that it is more predictable, make it lighter, and lessen menstrual cramps. Even if you’re not sexually active, they still may be a great tool in managing your menstrual health. There are other, non-hormonal treatments as well, which can be over-the-counter or prescription remedies.

Resources

Mayo Clinic: What's Normal, What's Not