What are the symptoms of menorrhagia. How is heavy menstrual bleeding diagnosed. What causes painful periods. When should you see a doctor for menstrual irregularities. How are heavy and painful periods treated.

Understanding Menorrhagia: Causes and Symptoms of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, is a condition that affects many women and can significantly impact their quality of life. This condition is characterized by excessively heavy or prolonged menstrual periods that interfere with daily activities. Understanding the causes and symptoms of menorrhagia is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What causes menorrhagia?

Heavy menstrual bleeding can be attributed to various factors, including:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Adenomyosis
• Endometriosis
• Bleeding disorders
• Certain medications
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Thyroid problems

In some cases, the underlying cause may be more serious, such as uterine or cervical cancer. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience persistent heavy bleeding.

Recognizing the symptoms of menorrhagia

How can you tell if your menstrual bleeding is considered heavy? Common signs of menorrhagia include:

• Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
• Needing to change tampons or pads every hour or more frequently
• Passing blood clots larger than a quarter
• Having to use multiple pads to control menstrual flow
• Needing to change pads or tampons during the night
• Experiencing symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue or shortness of breath

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice for proper evaluation and treatment.

Dysmenorrhea: Exploring the Causes and Symptoms of Painful Periods

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, is another common menstrual disorder that can significantly impact a woman’s daily life. Understanding the causes and symptoms of dysmenorrhea can help in seeking appropriate treatment and managing the condition effectively.

What causes dysmenorrhea?

Painful periods can be categorized into two types: primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins, while secondary dysmenorrhea is usually the result of an underlying condition. Some common causes of secondary dysmenorrhea include:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Adenomyosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Cervical stenosis
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

Identifying symptoms of dysmenorrhea

How can you recognize if you’re experiencing dysmenorrhea? Common symptoms include:

• Throbbing or cramping pain in the lower abdomen
• Pain that radiates to the lower back and thighs
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Dizziness

The pain associated with dysmenorrhea typically begins just before or at the start of menstruation and may last for several days. If you experience severe or debilitating pain during your periods, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnostic Approaches for Menorrhagia and Dysmenorrhea

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management of heavy and painful periods. Healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the underlying causes of these menstrual disorders.

How is menorrhagia diagnosed?

Diagnosing menorrhagia typically involves a combination of the following:

1. Medical history review: Your doctor will ask about your menstrual patterns, symptoms, and any relevant medical conditions.
2. Physical examination: A pelvic exam may be performed to check for any visible abnormalities.
3. Blood tests: These can help identify anemia, thyroid disorders, or blood clotting abnormalities.
4. Imaging tests: Ultrasound or MRI scans may be used to visualize the uterus and detect any structural abnormalities.
5. Endometrial biopsy: A small sample of the uterine lining may be taken to check for abnormal cells or cancer.
6. Hysteroscopy: This procedure allows the doctor to examine the inside of the uterus using a thin, lighted tube.

Diagnosing dysmenorrhea

The diagnostic process for dysmenorrhea may include:

1. Detailed medical history: Your doctor will inquire about your pain patterns, severity, and associated symptoms.
2. Physical examination: A pelvic exam may be performed to check for any abnormalities or signs of infection.
3. Imaging studies: Ultrasound or MRI scans can help identify conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.
4. Laparoscopy: In some cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure may be necessary to diagnose conditions like endometriosis.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

Treatment Options for Menorrhagia and Dysmenorrhea

Once a diagnosis is established, there are various treatment options available for managing heavy and painful periods. The choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual preferences.

How is menorrhagia treated?

Treatment options for heavy menstrual bleeding may include:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tranexamic acid, or hormonal medications like birth control pills
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Hormonal IUDs can help reduce menstrual bleeding
• Endometrial ablation: A procedure that destroys the uterine lining to reduce bleeding
• Uterine artery embolization: A minimally invasive procedure to treat fibroids
• Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids
• Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus (considered a last resort for severe cases)

Managing dysmenorrhea

Treatment approaches for painful periods may include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen
• Hormonal birth control: Pills, patches, or injections to regulate menstrual cycles
• Heat therapy: Applying heat to the lower abdomen to alleviate cramps
• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, and dietary modifications
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, yoga, or herbal supplements (consult with a healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments)
• Surgery: In cases of secondary dysmenorrhea, treating the underlying condition may be necessary

Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and preferences.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care Strategies for Managing Menstrual Disorders

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle modifications and self-care strategies can help manage symptoms of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea. These approaches can complement medical treatments and improve overall quality of life during menstruation.

Self-care tips for heavy menstrual bleeding

If you experience heavy periods, consider the following strategies:

• Use appropriate menstrual products: Opt for high-absorbency pads or tampons, or consider menstrual cups
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
• Eat iron-rich foods: Include foods like lean meats, leafy greens, and legumes in your diet to prevent anemia
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These substances can potentially increase menstrual flow
• Track your cycles: Keep a menstrual diary to identify patterns and prepare for heavy days

Managing painful periods through lifestyle changes

For those dealing with dysmenorrhea, consider incorporating these self-care strategies:

• Regular exercise: Engage in moderate physical activity to help alleviate cramps
• Stress reduction: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
• Dietary modifications: Reduce intake of salt, sugar, and caffeine, and increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Adequate sleep: Ensure you get enough rest, especially during your period
• Warm baths or showers: Use heat therapy to relax muscles and reduce pain

Remember that while these self-care strategies can be helpful, they should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Menstrual Irregularities

While some variations in menstrual patterns are normal, certain signs and symptoms warrant medical attention. Being aware of these red flags can help ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of potential underlying conditions.

Signs that indicate the need for medical evaluation

Consider seeking medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Bleeding that lasts longer than 7 days
• Periods that occur less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart
• Bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse
• Sudden changes in your menstrual pattern
• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Heavy bleeding that requires changing pads or tampons every hour
• Passing large blood clots (larger than a quarter)
• Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath

Additionally, any postmenopausal bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare provider, as it can be a sign of a more serious condition.

Preparing for your medical appointment

To make the most of your medical consultation, consider the following preparations:

1. Track your menstrual cycles: Keep a record of your period dates, duration, and flow
2. Note any associated symptoms: Document pain levels, mood changes, or other physical symptoms
3. List your medications: Include any over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbal remedies
4. Prepare questions: Write down any concerns or questions you have for your healthcare provider
5. Bring a support person: Consider asking a friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment

By being prepared and proactive, you can work more effectively with your healthcare provider to address your menstrual concerns and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Impact of Menstrual Disorders on Quality of Life and Mental Health

Menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea can have significant impacts on a woman’s quality of life, affecting various aspects of daily functioning and mental well-being. Understanding these impacts is crucial for comprehensive management and support.

How do menstrual disorders affect daily life?

Heavy and painful periods can lead to:

• Missed work or school days
• Reduced productivity and concentration
• Limited participation in social activities
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Difficulty with physical activities
• Strain on personal relationships

Mental health considerations

The chronic nature of menstrual disorders can also impact mental health. Some potential psychological effects include:

• Increased anxiety and stress
• Mood swings and irritability
• Feelings of frustration or helplessness
• Decreased self-esteem
• Social isolation
• Depression in severe cases

It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of menstrual disorders. If you’re experiencing mental health challenges related to your menstrual symptoms, consider speaking with a mental health professional or joining a support group for women with similar experiences.

Coping strategies for emotional well-being

To manage the emotional impact of menstrual disorders, consider the following strategies:

1. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that your experiences are valid
2. Communicate openly: Share your feelings with trusted friends, family members, or a therapist
3. Engage in stress-reducing activities: Try meditation, journaling, or gentle exercise
4. Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation
5. Educate yourself: Learn about your condition to feel more in control of your health
6. Connect with others: Join support groups or online communities for women with similar experiences

Remember that seeking help for the emotional aspects of menstrual disorders is just as important as addressing the physical symptoms. A holistic approach to management can lead to improved overall well-being and quality of life.

Painful Periods and Heavy Bleeding | Condition

UT Southwestern specialists have extensive experience in diagnosing the causes of irregular menstrual bleeding. For women who experience heavy bleeding and painful periods, our specially trained gynecologists can determine if there is a cause for concern.

Expert Management for Painful Periods and Heavy Bleeding

For most women, menstrual cycles occur about every 28 days, and periods last four to seven days. Abnormal menstruation includes problems such as heavy bleeding, known as menorrhagia, irregular menstrual bleeding, and pain during periods, known as dysmenorrhea.

UT Southwestern gynecologic surgeons, specialists, and their teams are nationally recognized for their expertise in women’s health care. We participate in research to improve diagnosis, management, and treatment for heavy, irregular, painful periods. Our specialists are also faculty members, dedicated to educating future women’s health doctors and other care providers.

Causes of Painful Periods and Heavy Bleeding

Some common reasons for irregular, heavy, and painful periods include:

• Adenomyosis: Endometrial tissue, which normally lines the inside of the uterus, grows into the muscle wall of the uterus
• Bleeding disorders: Certain inherited bleeding disorders, such as von Willebrand’s disease, which prevents blood from clotting properly, can cause abnormal bleeding
• Cancer: Cervical cancer and uterine cancer can cause heavy menstrual bleeding
• Endometriosis: Endometrial-like tissue grows on the outside of the uterus or on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other nearby organs
• Medications: Certain anticoagulants (blood thinners), anti-inflammatory medications, or hormonal medications can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause small cysts, or fluid-filled sacs, to develop in the ovaries, causing irregular periods
• Pregnancy complications: A miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy can cause heavy bleeding
• Premature ovarian failure: This condition occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop working before age 40, leading to irregular periods and possible infertility
• Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous tumors made up of muscle tissue can grow in the walls of the uterus, the lining inside the uterus (endometrial cavity), or on the outside of the uterus
• Uterine polyps: Overgrowth of endometrial tissue can form growths called polyps inside the uterus
• Hormonal imbalances: Can be due to PCOS or is often related to the perimenopausal period when normal cycles in monthly hormones become out of balance

Symptoms of Painful Periods and Heavy Bleeding

Signs and symptoms of heavy menstrual bleeding include:

• Bleeding for more than seven days
• Bleeding that soaks through one or more tampons or pads every hour for several hours in a row
• Need to use multiple pads to control menstrual flow
• Need to change pads or tampons during the night
• Menstrual flow with blood clots larger than a quarter
• Flooding of clothing and bedsheets with menstrual bleeding
• Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue and shortness of breath

Symptoms of menstrual pain include:

• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Lower back pain
• Nausea
• Pain that starts a few days before the period, worsens during the period, and lasts two to three days after the period ends
• Throbbing or cramping pain in the lower abdomen that can be intense
• Lower back pain during menses

Patients should see their doctors if:

• Their periods stop for more than 60 days
• Their periods become erratic
• Their periods are less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart
• They bleed between periods
• They bleed after sex
• They have any vaginal bleeding after menopause
• They suddenly get a fever and feel sick after using tampons

Diagnosis of Painful Periods and Heavy Bleeding

UT Southwestern’s experienced gynecologists conduct a thorough evaluation, which includes a:

• Physical exam
• Review of personal medical history, including details of the patient’s menstrual cycle
• Discussion of symptoms

Patients should bring information about the dates and lengths of their last several periods. For sexually active patients, a pelvic exam will be performed to check for infections and to examine the cervix.

To diagnose heavy bleeding and painful periods, our doctors usually recommend one or more tests, such as:

• Blood tests to look for signs of iron deficiency, thyroid disorders, or blood-clotting abnormalities
• Ultrasound: Diagnostic tools that use sound waves to produce images of the pelvic organs. Used to look for any abnormalities  
• Pap smear: Sample of cells from the cervix that are examined under a microscope for infection or changes that can lead to cancer or already are cancerous
• Endometrial biopsy: A test that samples a small amount of endometrial tissue for examination under a microscope
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans: Equipment that uses a large magnet and radio waves to produce detailed images of pelvic organs

Based on the results of these tests, we might recommend further testing, such as:

• Hysteroscopy: Examination of the inside of the uterus using a hysteroscope, a slender, lighted device inserted through the vagina and cervix. This allows direct visualization of the inside of the uterus
• Sonohysterography: Test that involves injecting fluid into the uterus via a thin tube through the vagina and cervix and then taking ultrasound images of the uterus

Treatment for Painful Periods and Heavy Bleeding

Painful Periods

If the painful periods are not relieved with over-the-counter medications or start to interfere with daily activities, our physicians might be able to offer relief.

Our doctors might recommend:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) don’t relieve symptoms, prescription NSAIDs might be prescribed.
• Hormonal birth control. Birth control prescriptions contain hormones that can help regulate hormone levels throughout the month and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. In addition to pills, these hormones also can be delivered by an injection, a patch, an implant placed under the skin of the arm, or a flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina. Another good option, even in teens, is an intrauterine device (IUD) that contains a hormone called progesterone. These methods can be very effective in managing symptoms, even if patients are not sexually active.
• Surgery. If painful periods are caused by polyps or fibroids, surgical removal of the abnormal tissue can help reduce the symptoms. Many uterine-sparing, fertility-sparing, and definitive surgical options exist to help with these symptoms.

Heavy Bleeding

Our treatment for heavy bleeding is based on the amount of bleeding. Many approaches involve hormone therapy and other nonhormonal medical therapies. If there is a reason estrogen should not be prescribed, an oral progestin might be recommended. Over-the-counter treatments such as ibuprofen can help decrease the amount of bleeding and pain, as well.

Clinical Trials

As one of the nation’s top academic medical centers, UT Southwestern offers a number of clinical trials aimed at improving screening, diagnosis, and treatment of painful periods and heavy bleeding.

Clinical trials often give patients access to leading-edge treatments that are not yet widely available. Eligible patients who choose to participate in one of UT Southwestern’s clinical trials might receive treatments years before they are available to the public.

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Heavy periods – NHS

Heavy periods (also called menorrhagia) are common and may just be normal for you. Treatment can help if they’re affecting your daily life.

Check if you have heavy periods

You may have heavy periods if you:

• need to change your pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours, or empty your menstrual cup more often than is recommended
• need to use 2 types of sanitary product together, such as a pad and a tampon
• have periods lasting more than 7 days
• pass blood clots larger than about 2.5cm (the size of a 10p coin)
• bleed through to your clothes or bedding
• avoid daily activities, like exercise, or take time off work because of your periods
• feel tired or short of breath a lot

Causes of heavy periods

It can be normal to have heavy periods.

They can sometimes be heavy at different times, like when you first start your periods, after pregnancy or during menopause.

Sometimes, they can be caused by:

• conditions affecting your womb, ovaries or hormones, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids, endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease
• some medicines and treatments, including some anticoagulant medicines and chemotherapy medicines
• stress and depression

Rarely, heavy periods can be a sign of womb cancer.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

• heavy periods are affecting your life
• you’ve had heavy periods for some time
• you have severe pain during your periods
• you bleed between periods or after sex
• you have heavy periods and other symptoms such as pain when peeing, pooing or having sex

What we mean by severe pain

Severe pain:

• always there and so bad it’s hard to think or talk
• you cannot sleep
• it’s very hard to move, get out of bed, go to the bathroom, wash or dress

Moderate pain:

• always there
• makes it hard to concentrate or sleep
• you can manage to get up, wash or dress

Mild pain:

• comes and goes
• is annoying but does not stop you doing daily activities

Treatment for heavy periods

Heavy periods do not always need to be treated. But there are treatments that can help if they’re affecting your daily life.

Treatments from a GP include:

• some types of contraception, such as an intrauterine system (IUS) or the combined contraceptive pill
• medicine to help reduce the bleeding, such as tranexamic acid
• prescription-only anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as mefenamic acid or naproxen

You should have a blood test to check if you have iron deficiency anaemia.

If these treatments do not work or a GP thinks a condition may be causing your heavy periods, they’ll usually refer you for tests or to see a specialist.

Page last reviewed: 03 November 2021
Next review due: 03 November 2024

15 simple rules to help you get through hard times

Likbez

Life

March 10, 2022

If there are storm clouds on your horizon, it’s time to open the psychological “umbrella”.

Life is a white streak, a black streak, and hard times come to everyone sooner or later. If now it’s your turn to overcome the obstacle course and bend under the pressure of circumstances, use simple psychological rules that will make passing the life test of strength much easier and more fun.

1. Keep a positive attitude

Life gives us exactly what we focus on at the moment. Pregnant women look around and are amazed at how many of their equally pregnant associates have divorced. Those dreaming of a particular brand of car are starting to see these cars on the streets day after day.

In fact, of course, there are no more pregnant women or cars anymore. It’s just that our brain, focused on its own, filters the surrounding reality and lights a signal lamp: “Here, look, urgently pay attention!” – when he sees an object corresponding to the topic of his thoughts. Psychologists call this the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon.

Output is simple. The more bad you expect, the more you will get.

It will climb literally from all cracks, driving you deeper and deeper into depression. And vice versa: thinking about the good, believing in the best, you change the settings of your own brain – and it is the good that is in the focus of your attention. Let an optimistic attitude not solve all your problems, but the world around you will become much brighter.

2. Make lemonade out of lemons

Sounds like a broken record, but it often works. Yes, there are situations in which we really cannot change anything. However, there are others when it is enough to take a step back or to the side in order to look at the problem with a fresh look, connect a little creativity – and voila, an elegant and profitable solution will be found. And not at all where you initially expected. A classic example of this approach is the story of William Wrigley, the man and the chewing gum.

In the 1990s, the company he created unsuccessfully tried to enter the market selling household items – soap and baking powder. Things were going so-so, and in order to at least somehow stand out from the competition, Wrigley came up with the idea of ​​attaching a penny piece of chewing gum to each pack of baking powder.

Alas, the company continued to work at zero, or even at a loss, clouds were gathering over the business, and Wrigley was already ready to accept the fact that he would not make a businessman. However, at some point, an unfortunate entrepreneur noticed that people sometimes buy baking powder for future use only in order to get a package of chewing gum along with it. Archimedes would have exclaimed in his place: “Eureka!”

Wrigley limited himself to completely reorienting the business to the production and sale of chewing gum, which before him was not considered to be any promising product. The result of this creativity and the success that followed it is chewed by the whole world (literally) to this day.

3. Learn From Your Mistakes

What exactly got you into a stalemate? Analyzing all the circumstances can be painful, but extremely rewarding. Break down the events that preceded the worsening of things: what went wrong, where you made a mistake, what could have happened if you had acted differently … As a result, you will get a fairly clear idea of ​​​​how you could have avoided the onset of a black streak. Going through difficult times is much easier if you know that the chances of them repeating tend to zero.

4. Change what you can change

After identifying the mistakes and miscalculations that led you to a difficult situation, try to correct them. If something cannot be corrected right now, just pay attention to this circumstance to correct it as soon as the opportunity presents itself.

5. Be grateful

And to life – for the experience provided to you, and to those people who surround you. Think about this or that close person: what he brings into your life, what he teaches, what he lends his shoulder to, how you would live without his support.

Write a short (or long, depending on your mood) letter explaining why you are so grateful to have this person in life. Then call him or her and read your creation. The difficulties that you are experiencing at a particular moment will begin to seem less significant when compared with the real values ​​\u200b\u200bthat you have in your life.

6. Focus on what you can control

You may have made many unsuccessful attempts to correct the situation. So much so that you give up and you no longer believe that you can change anything.

Looking for what is still within your power and focusing your attention on it is one of the most effective ways to deal with learned helplessness (that is the name of the state you are currently experiencing).

Yes, you can’t improve your business globally, but can you brush your teeth? Go and clean. Can you start running in the morning? Run.

The more things in your life that you can control and manage, the faster your self-confidence will return. And along with it – the will to overcome difficulties.

7.

Praise yourself for the past and experienced

Sometimes we are so focused on the present moment that we do not look back. The darkness around seems hopeless. However, it is important to look back sometimes to appreciate how far you have come, how you have changed, what you have gained and what you have left behind. When you see what exactly you have already managed to overcome, the light at the end of the tunnel will become much brighter.

8. Surround yourself with people who understand you

Surrounding yourself with people who are close to you is one of the most important things you can do when you find yourself in a difficult situation. You need their love so that you have something to compare with what is happening around you. You need to take care of them in order to feel significant. You need their honesty to hear the truth and advice from those you truly trust. It is important for you to understand and accept you as you are, so as not to lose faith in yourself.

If for some reason you don’t have these people around you, find a community whose members have gone through or are going through what you are going through now. From them you will receive both the necessary support and experience that will allow you to overcome difficulties.

9. Learn to forgive and let go

It happens that difficult times have a specific culprit. “If not for him, everything would have gone according to plan!” – you think and exhaust yourself with hatred for this person. This reaction is natural but destructive: you focus on negative experiences instead of looking for ways out.

Yes, let the person really be to blame, but… You won’t be angry at the rain, because of which you get soaked to the skin? Or seek revenge on the gust of wind that broke your umbrella? No, you will do your best to get home as soon as possible and make yourself hot tea, and then fix your umbrella or buy a new one. So here. The culprit is the “element”, which is important to leave behind as soon as possible, focusing on more significant things.

10. Don’t blame yourself

Let’s say it again: everyone has hard times. It’s not you who are bad or improvident, it’s just a black streak that is an integral part of life. Every life. Of course, different people have difficulties in their own way. You got this option. Take it as a test that is important to pass with honor, and not as proof of how bad you are.

Not even your worst enemy can harm you like your own unrestrained thoughts.

Buddha

11. Enjoy the simple things

One of the hardest things that hard times bring us is the loss of comfort. When you are doing well, you can find joy in dining at popular restaurants, traveling, hiring a housekeeper to make life easier, buying expensive things. When things start to go downhill, there’s a lot to give up, and that’s sad.

Meanwhile, to enjoy life, sometimes very simple things are enough. Instead of dining at a restaurant, find some interesting recipe and cook an original (albeit inexpensive) meal with your loved ones. Instead of traveling around Europe, get into the habit of cycling and exploring on Saturdays. Minimalism is in fashion these days. Experience it for yourself now. When else will there be such a chance, right?

12. Review your values ​​and priorities

Failure gives you a chance to revise your values ​​in life, which you didn’t even think about on well-fed and calm days. Look inside yourself, look around: what is really important to you? To what extent do your dreams, hopes, aspirations correspond to what is truly significant for you? What can you give up without much worries? Losing what will break your heart? Reprioritization is often the decisive step to overcome a losing streak.

13. Cultivate patience in yourself

In childhood and youth, we sometimes think that we can get everything at once. And only with age comes the understanding that we cannot control time. No matter how strong our time management skills are, there are things for which “the hour has not yet come. ” A flower won’t bloom in February, a baby won’t be born right after a kiss, a big secure house won’t be built in a day. If you want something of value, you’ll have to wait. It is important to understand and accept this.

You can have everything. Just not all at once.

Oprah Winfrey

14. Remember: You always have a choice

Although many things in the world are beyond our control, we can still choose. The choice is how we look at these things, how we react to them, what actions we take, how we let circumstances define who we are. Who are you here and now? Choose. Your turn.

15. Take care of yourself

This point is omitted by many, either entangled in self-accusations, or working up to the tenth sweat, or simply postponing until better times. Meanwhile, in order to survive in difficult hours, you need to take care of yourself. What if tomorrow you are incapacitated by overwork or clinical depression? So please yourself no matter what.

Coffee in a cozy café. A walk in the park. New book. Buying beautiful clothes or accessories – let it be a mere trifle, but it will give you a piece of joy! Let yourself sleep, eventually. We are for ourselves the most important and most effective support in difficult times. You can’t lose her.

Read also 🧐

• How to stop being afraid of obstacles and problems?
• 4 tips to help you overcome any difficulties in life
• How to develop psychological resilience

Adenomyosis | Symptoms, complications, diagnosis and treatment

Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue that normally stretches the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. The expelled endometrial tissue continues to act as usual, causing thickening, breakdown, and bleeding during each menstrual cycle. The result can be an enlarged uterus and painful, heavy periods.

The cause of adenomyosis remains unknown, but the disease usually resolves after menopause. For women who experience severe discomfort from adenomyosis, some treatments may help, but the single most reliable and effective cure by far is hysterectomy.

Symptoms

Occasionally, adenomyosis occurs quietly, causing no signs or symptoms, or only mild discomfort. In other cases, adenomyosis may cause:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Severe cramps or sharp, knife-like pains in the pelvis during menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
• Menstrual cramps that persist throughout your period and get worse as you get older
• Pain during intercourse
• Blood clots that pass during your period

Your uterus may get bigger. Although you may not know if your uterus is enlarged, you may notice that your lower abdomen feels large or too tender.

The cause of adenomyosis is unknown. Expert theories about a possible cause include:

• Invasive tissue growth. Some experts believe that adenomyosis is the result of direct invasion of endometrial cells from the lining of the uterus into the muscle that forms the walls of the uterus. Uterine incisions made during surgery, such as a caesarean section (C-section), can allow endometrial cells to directly invade the uterine wall.
• Origin of development. Other experts believe that adenomyosis originates within the uterine muscle from endometrial tissue deposited there when the uterus first forms in the fetus.
• Inflammation of the uterus associated with childbirth. Another theory suggests a link between adenomyosis and childbirth. Inflammation of the lining of the uterus during the postpartum period can disrupt the normal boundary of the cells that line the uterus. Surgical procedures on the uterus can have a similar effect.
• Origin of stem cells. A recent theory suggests that bone marrow stem cells can invade the uterine muscle, causing adenomyosis.

Regardless of how adenomyosis develops, its growth depends on the woman’s circulating estrogen. When estrogen production decreases at menopause, adenomyosis eventually goes away.

Risk factors for adenomyosis include:

• Before uterine surgery such as C-section removal or fibroma removal
• Childbirth
• transitional age

Most cases of adenomyosis that are dependent on estrogen occur in women in their 40s and 50s. Adenomyosis in middle-aged women may refer to longer exposure to estrogen compared to younger women. Until recently, adenomyosis was most often diagnosed only when a woman had a hysterectomy. Current research indicates that this condition may be common, but often undetected, in young women.

Complications

If you frequently have prolonged, heavy bleeding during your menstrual cycle, chronic anemia may occur. Anemia causes fatigue and other health problems. If you suspect that you may have anemia, see your doctor.

While not harmful, the pain and excessive bleeding associated with adenomyosis can disrupt your lifestyle. You may be avoiding activities you enjoyed in the past because you don’t know when or where you might start bleeding.

Painful menstrual cycles can cause you to miss work or school and can create conflict in relationships. Periodic pain can lead to depression, irritability, anxiety, anger, and feelings of helplessness. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor if you suspect you may have adenomyosis.

Diagnosis

A doctor may suspect adenomyosis based on:

• Signs and symptoms
• Pelvic examination showing an enlarged sensitive uterus
• Ultrasound imaging of the uterus
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the uterus

In some cases, the doctor may take a sample of uterine tissue for testing (endometrial biopsy) to make sure that abnormal uterine bleeding is not due to some other serious condition. But an endometrial biopsy will not help a doctor confirm a diagnosis of adenomyosis. The only way to be sure of adenomyosis is to examine the uterus after surgery to remove it (hysterectomy).

Other uterine disorders can cause signs and symptoms similar to adenomyosis, making adenomyosis difficult to diagnose. Such conditions include fibroid tumors (leiomyomas), uterine cells growing outside the uterus (endometriosis), and growths in the lining of the uterus (endometrial polyps). Your doctor may conclude that you have adenomyosis only after determining if there are other possible causes for your signs and symptoms.

Treatment

Adenomyosis usually goes away after menopause, so treatment may depend on how close you are to that stage of life.

Treatment options for adenomyosis include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs. If you are approaching menopause, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) to help control your pain.