The menstrual cycle or period is a process the female body goes through in order to prepare for pregnancy. Approximately every 28 days the uterus develops a new lining in preparation for a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur this lining is shed. It occurs in women starting in the early teens and continues until menopause or around age 50. Many factors can affect a normal period and any changes to this cycle can signal health problems. Women should report any abnormal period symptoms to a physician to receive an evaluation of their symptoms.
Irregular Bleeding
What is considered a normal period can vary from woman to woman. On average, the menstrual cycle should occur every 24 to 34 days and last about four to seven days. However, slight variations may still be normal, states the National Institutes of Health. Women should contact a physician if symptoms such as heavier or lighter than normal bleeding, spotting in-between periods or bleeding longer than a week occurs. In addition, women should lookout for clots, as well as bleeding that occurs after intercourse or after menopause.
Amenorrhea
Amenorrhea or the absence of menstruation proves a serious concern. Women should contact a physician if the menstrual cycle has not begun by age 16 or is absent for 90 days, says MayoClinic.com. Amenorrhea can result because of a change in dosage of birth control pills, stress, medication or occur when breastfeeding. It can also indicate excessive exercise or inadequate diet especially if the patient is thin or underweight. There are also several diseases which can inhibit the menstrual cycle and only a doctor can run tests to determine the cause.
Pain and Cramping
Some pain and cramping occurs commonly during the menstrual cycle however, dysmenorrhea or severe pain and cramps is not normal, states The National Woman's Health Information Center. In some cases, no underlying disease or known cause for this symptom exists. In other cases, abnormal pain occurs because of a hormone imbalance, fibroids or a disease such as cancer or endometriosis.
Itching and Colored Discharge
Any symptoms such as a rash, sores, itching or vaginal discharge that has a green or yellow color and has a foul odor may indicate an infection claims the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. While some discharge can occur during the 28-day cycle, it should not be excessive--more than a teaspoon daily, thick or clumpy.
