Understanding Irregular Periods
Irregular periods, also known as oligomenorrhea, are menstrual cycles longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days.
Hormonal imbalances, stress, thyroid issues, or other medical conditions can cause irregular periods.
If your period has always been irregular, it may be normal for your body, but consult your doctor or an expert of Ayurveda if your cycle has recently become irregular and is accompanied by symptoms like heavy bleeding, severe cramps, or spotting between periods.
Causes of Irregular Periods
- Hormonal imbalances – Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels often disrupt the menstrual cycle.
- Stress – Stress can temporarily interfere with the part of your brain that regulates hormones, leading to irregular periods.
- Thyroid issues – An overactive or underactive thyroid gland can impact your body’s hormone levels and menstrual cycle.
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) – PCOS is a common endocrine disorder that can cause irregular periods, excess hair growth, and weight gain.
- Uterine fibroids – Non-cancerous tumors in the uterus can cause heavy, prolonged, or irregular bleeding.
Ayurvedic Diagnosis and Treatment for Irregular Periods
According to Ayurveda, irregular periods can be caused by an imbalance in the doshas, especially vata dosha, which governs movement in the body.
An Ayurvedic practitioner will diagnose the underlying dosha imbalance based on a woman’s medical history, symptoms, and Prakriti (natural constitution).
Ayurvedic treatment aims to balance the deranged digestive fire, thereby balancing hormonal levels. Ayurvedic treatments are particularly effective in regulating periods by addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances.
Natural Remedies for Irregular Periods
Aloe vera gel with manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) capsule is considered one of the best remedies to treat PCOD symptoms and helps in restoring the health of the uterus.
Niranjan phal (China fruit) pulp in water after soaking it overnight effectively controls menstrual heavy flow.
Bananas can solve the problem of white discharge easily.
Manjistha capsules can control foul odor around the vagina during and after periods.
Phala Ghrita is prepared by using cow milk and is extremely useful for many gynecological problems from pregnancy to irregularities with the menstrual cycle.
Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance
- Seed cycling is a natural form of dietary treatment plan, which includes consuming specific seeds rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients for hormonal regulation.
- Consuming flaxseeds, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds can help regulate the menstrual cycle.
Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle for Menstrual Health
- Eat warming foods, especially in the fall and winter, as raw foods can be cooling for the body.
- Stay hydrated by drinking 6-8 glasses of warm or room temperature water daily.
- Exercise regularly, such as walking, yoga, or Tai Chi, for at least 30 minutes a day, 3-4 times a week.
- Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing, journaling, or gentle yoga.
- Get enough rest, aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Yoga and Meditation for Menstrual Health
- Practicing pranayama, surya namaskar, and herbal medicines can help combat menstrual irregularities.
- Yoga asanas such as Padmasana, Halasana, Dhanurasana, Sarvangasana, Shalabhasana, Bhujangasana, and Paschimottanasana can help improve menstrual health.
Ayurvedic Medicine for Menstrual Health
- Ayurvedic medicines for irregular periods work better in certain scenarios and have fewer risks compared to allopathic medicines and surgeries.
- Consult an Ayurveda doctor to discuss specific problems and get individualized treatment.
Conclusion
- Irregular periods can be a source of concern and discomfort for many women.
- Ayurvedic treatment presents a personalized and natural approach to tackling irregular periods.
- By making sustainable lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, women can regulate their menstrual cycle and achieve overall health and wellness.