Knowing what’s normal. Period.
In the 21st century we have a tendency to think that things that are really common in our everyday life are normal. I am here to tell you that just because hormone imbalances and painful periods are common it doesn’t mean it’s normal. I feel like every second person has been put on the pill because they either have bad skin or “period pain”. But the pill isn’t the answer for either of them but maybe let's save that for another blog post.
WHAT DOES A “NORMAL PERIOD LOOK LIKE”
- Comes every 21-35 days
- No excessive pain
- Bleeding last 4-7 days
- Blood colour should be a rich, bright red
- No clots
- Blood flow should be Light – Heavy – Light
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you need to think back and think what is going on for you. Is this something that’s new or has this been going on for a long time. I should also mention here that yes you may experience some light cramping in the first 12 months of getting your period but it should not require pain medication or time off school or work. There are a number of reasons your hormones might be out of balanced please see them below.
WHY MIGHT YOUR HORMONES BE OUT OF BALANCE
- Stress
- Nutrient deficiency – poor diet or poor nutrient absorption
- Overall poor health or gut health
- Eating disorders
- Existing health conditions
- Genetics
- Excessive exercise
- Environmental oestrogens
DID YOU KNOW 90% of women who have their period suffer from PMS?? That is bloody crazy.
At this point it is important to get some professional help as the sooner you get the right help from the right health professional the better.
But who do I ask for help you ask??
There are three different categories you can look at for help. At the beginning you can look for health professionals such as your GP, Naturopath, Acupuncturist, or a women’s health professional. It’s important to note if you think something is wrong, trust your gut. Go and ask for help and continue to push until you get the help that you need.
DID YOU KNOW it can take up to 8 years to be diagnosed because people think that PAIN IS NORMAL AND ITS NOT!!
What happens if my Doctor says I’m fine but I don’t feel fine?
If this is how you feel, you’re not alone.
1. TRUST YOUR GUT If the period symptoms you experience are impacting your everyday life and you’ve thought “this just can’t be normal”, keep persisting in your search for answers.
2. TRACK ANY PATTERNS - Track ALL your period symptoms on an app or paper chart. Write down EVERYTHING. Look for patterns that arise. You can show this to your doctor to help them understand the weight and nature of your concerns.
3. SEEK A SECOND OPINION- If you feel as though you haven’t got the answers that explain your period symptoms, there is nothing wrong with seeking a second opinion (or third or fourth!) from a different doctor. Keep pushing it is work it!
If you would like more support when it comes to your hormones please book and appointment as I specialise in supporting women with getting their hormones back to happy and for them to start feeling like their usual self again.