The menstrual cycle is a harmonious coordination among various organs, tissues, cells, and hormones in the body. For healthy women, the menstrual cycle repeats every 21-35 days, with bleeding lasting 3-7 days. Menstruation typically begins during puberty, usually between 9-15 years of age, and continues until menopause, commonly occurring at 50-55 years old.

Pharmacist Do Xuan Hoa from the Medical Information Center, Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, advises women not to overlook abnormal changes in their cycle, menstrual blood volume, or symptoms during their period.

Symptoms such as severe menstrual cramps, heavy bleeding requiring pad changes every two to three hours, large blood clots, or periods lasting longer than 7 days, may indicate endometriosis or thyroid disorders. Conversely, oligomenorrhea (very light bleeding or periods lasting less than two days) is often associated with uterine adhesions, polycystic ovary syndrome, or premature ovarian insufficiency.

The brain-pituitary-ovarian axis regulates endocrine activity and the menstrual cycle. *Photo: Eco Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company*

Prolonged absence of menstruation (amenorrhea) is often linked to eating disorders, rapid weight loss, malnutrition, or chronic stress. These factors alter the function of brain regions that control hormones regulating the menstrual cycle.

The menstrual cycle also reflects a woman's fertility. Oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea are often associated with endocrine disorders, anovulation, and ovarian insufficiency. These are all potential causes affecting a woman's natural conception ability, accounting for approximately 25% of infertility cases, according to pharmacist Hoa.

Monitoring monthly menstrual cycles helps detect early signs of abnormal health. *Photo created by AI*

Menstrual disorders are common during perimenopause and menopause, as the function of the brain-pituitary-ovarian axis begins to decline. If menstrual irregularities are monitored and addressed promptly, it can prevent early onset and reduce uncomfortable symptoms. Women should not self-supplement with isolated estrogen or hormone replacement therapy without a doctor's prescription, to avoid increasing the risk of cancer and cardiovascular issues.

Women need to establish a healthy lifestyle, engage in physical activity suitable for their condition, get sufficient sleep, and manage stress. Each person should maintain scientific nutrition with plenty of green vegetables and fruits, while limiting bad fats, sugar, protein, salt, and stimulants.

Women can support the brain-pituitary-ovarian axis with certain herbs, such as lepidium meyenii, to help balance hormones, slow down, and improve menstrual disorders. Observing changes in the menstrual cycle helps women detect any abnormal issues early.

Thai Thanh