For most women their period comes and goes each month with no concern, as it should. Usually menses signifies a healthy and normal aspect of a woman physiology but what classifies “healthy and normal”? Each woman’s experience of menses is unique and quite subjective. For instance, volume of blood loss, discomfort and emotional experiences are difficult to measure and quantify. Although women should experience menses without any significant impacts to their daily functioning, what does it mean if this is not the case?

Menstrual disorders or disruptions of hormonal balance including heavy bleeding, weight change, brain-fog, mood changes, fluctuations in energy and missed periods. All the above can signify a variety of conditions that may or may not have straightforward explanations. To further complicate the situation there exists a range of naturopathic and conventional approaches to treatment. Whatever treatment option you choose ideally it should address the root cause of your condition and not merely mask the symptoms you are experiencing.

There are many health issues ranging from hormonal imbalances to structural abnormalities and medical conditions that are connected with changes in your menstrual cycle, which should not be ignored.  Thyroid issues, eating disorders, bleeding disorders, medications, stress, liver & kidney disease, food sensitivities and infections can all contribute in unique ways to changes in your cycle. Whatever your symptoms are, it is important to address them with your primary healthcare provider and self-advocate to get clear answers and address the root cause of your concerns.