Menstrual Disorders in Adolescent Girls
During adolescence, the body undergoes sudden transformations, which can leave adolescents with many questions and difficulties. Among the most challenging issues are menstrual disorders in girls. These disorders include premenstrual syndrome, dysmenorrhea, and amenorrhea, and may require medical attention.
Premenstrual syndrome symptoms are uncomfortable and may occur before the onset of menstruation, lasting from a few hours to a few days. Symptoms can be intense, and for some girls, they can affect daily functioning. These symptoms can include neurologic and vascular symptoms, psychological symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, fluid retention, eye problems, and respiratory problems. Factors contributing to premenstrual syndrome include hormonal fluctuations, hypoglycemia, hyperprolactinemia, psychogenic factors, changes in carbohydrate metabolism, excessive aldosterone, progesterone allergy, and water retention. However, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help prevent premenstrual syndrome.
Dysmenorrhea is intense menstrual pain and cramps. It can be classified as primary or secondary, depending on severity. Primary dysmenorrhea starts at the onset of menstrual periods and may last a lifetime. Abnormal uterine contractions due to chemical imbalance cause severe menstrual cramping. Secondary dysmenorrhea starts later and can be due to medical conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, tumors, infections, and abnormal pregnancy. Symptoms of dysmenorrhea include lower abdomen cramping and pain, lower back pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, fainting, weakness, and headaches. Overweight girls, smokers, and those who start menstruating before turning eleven are at a higher risk of developing dysmenorrhea. Treatment may involve regular exercise, abdominal massage, hot baths, vitamin supplements, and dietary modifications.
Amenorrhea is the condition in which a girl skips her menstrual periods for more than three consecutive cycles. Primary amenorrhea starts at the onset of menstrual periods, while secondary amenorrhea occurs later. Causes of amenorrhea can include ovulation abnormality, eating disorders, birth defects, anatomical abnormalities, malnourishment, anorexia, bulimia, pregnancy, over-exercising, thyroid disorder, obesity, and other medical conditions. Ovulation abnormalities are a common cause of absent or irregular periods. Adolescents who are athletic and have a lower body fat content may experience absent menses. Girls with extra fat cells in their bodies may have irregular menses due to interference with ovulation. Treatment may include dietary modifications, ovulation inhibitors, and hormone treatment.
In conclusion, menstrual disorders are common among adolescent girls and can significantly impact daily life. It is essential to seek medical attention and follow healthy habits to prevent and manage menstrual disorders.
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