Menstrual disorders are among the most common problems in women. Any abnormalities in the menstrual cycle can be symptoms of a problem in the pelvic area, including fibroids, endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease. Disorders can include disruptions in the cycle itself, differences in the discharge, or other problems. Different disorders can be symptomatic of different diseases or conditions.

Menstrual bleeding is abnormal if it lasts for more than a week or if it is different from a woman’s usual menstrual pattern. Heavy bleeding can have many causes, including hormone imbalance, cancer of the uterus, miscarriage, infection of the uterus or blood clotting problems, and can result in deficient iron, causing anemia. An iron deficiency can be treated with iron supplements and a balanced diet. A woman who experiences heavy bleeding should contact her doctor.

A woman may experience a change in her regular pattern of menstruation for a number of reasons, especially when she first begins having periods and when she nears menopause. Irregular cycles can also occur because of illness, weight gain or loss, stress, heavy exercise or other reasons. Since pregnancy can halt menstruation, a woman should see her doctor if she misses a period.

Some women experience this specific type of physical and mental distress as the menstrual period approaches; it typically disappears during the cycle. Common PMS symptoms include swollen and tender breasts, bloating (retention of water), headache, depression, mood swings, and irritability. The exact cause of PMS is unknown. Treatments are geared toward relieving symptoms through diet and exercise.

Severely painful menstruation is called dysmenorrhea. Sometimes, severe menstrual pain may be caused by a tumor, infection, or endometriosis. When a specific cause for the pain is diagnosed, treatment for the underlying problem may be needed.