Irregular Menstruation: Why Ultrasound and Blood Tests Matter

Q: Irregular Menstruation: Why Ultrasound and Blood Tests Matter

Hello： Spending time typing to schedule an appointment is far better than worrying and suffering every day. <br>Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Irregular menstrual periods?

Hello, Doctor: You previously mentioned that it is absolutely necessary to have an ultrasound and blood tests.
I would like to ask why? My family and friends are telling me to just take menstrual regulation medication.
They say that at 17, I probably don't need an ultrasound, and that my blood tests from last year's school health check were normal.
However, I find it very frustrating because my menstruation has been irregular for almost seven years now.
While others have their periods for 4-5 days, mine lasts 7-15 days, and the flow is either very light or very heavy, sometimes varying greatly.
During heavy days, I need to change a night pad every two hours or a regular pad every hour, and I often experience leakage that stains my clothes, which is quite noticeable.
This month, my period started on July 14 and has been very light and hasn’t stopped yet.
In June, it lasted from the 15th to the 31st, with occasional cramps.
In May, it was from the 8th to the 14th, and there was no period in April, while in March it was from the 21st to the 28th...
I can't stand having my period for so many days, so I often drink cold beverages, which shortens my period but comes with severe cramps.
I previously took menstrual regulation medication, but although it helped predict when my period would come, the duration remained the same (about 7-9 days), just shortened by a few days.
Eventually, I felt it was ineffective and stopped taking it on my own.
Also, I would like to ask about another issue.
After my period, I have a lot of discharge, and there is also yellowish discharge with a foul smell.
What could be the possible causes? Regardless of whether I have my period, I feel very moist "down there." How can I improve this? Why do I need an ultrasound and blood tests? What does the ultrasound check for? Why has my menstrual cycle been irregular for so long? Is there a way to improve this? I don't want to take menstrual regulation medication...
Could this be related to my first menstruation, or is it because I am still a minor and my uterus is not fully developed...? But it has already been seven years.
I experience menstrual cramps for about 10-15 days each month, and I calculated that the worst year I had was when I bled for over 270 days.
Please help me with these questions; I am really suffering.
Thank you.

Ying, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/18

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Spending time typing to schedule an appointment is far better than worrying and suffering every day.
Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2005/07/18

More Info

Irregular menstruation can be a complex issue, especially for someone who has been experiencing it for an extended period, as you described. Your concerns about the necessity of ultrasound and blood tests are valid, and I will explain why these tests are important in your situation.

Firstly, irregular menstruation can stem from various underlying causes, including hormonal imbalances, structural abnormalities in the reproductive system, or even systemic health issues. The fact that you have been experiencing prolonged menstrual periods (7-15 days) and varying flow suggests that there may be an underlying condition that needs to be investigated.
Why Ultrasound and Blood Tests Matter:
1. Ultrasound Examination:
An ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows healthcare providers to visualize the internal structures of your reproductive system, including the uterus and ovaries. This examination can help identify any abnormalities such as:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common condition that can cause irregular periods due to hormonal imbalances.

- Fibroids or Polyps: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can lead to heavy bleeding and prolonged periods.

- Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can disrupt normal menstrual cycles.

- Structural Abnormalities: Any congenital issues that may affect menstrual regularity.

2. Blood Tests:
Blood tests are crucial for evaluating hormonal levels, which can provide insights into your menstrual irregularities. Key hormones to assess include:
- Estrogen and Progesterone: These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle, and imbalances can lead to irregularities.

- Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid dysfunction can significantly impact menstrual cycles, leading to either heavy or absent periods.

- Prolactin Levels: Elevated prolactin can cause irregular menstruation and is often associated with conditions like prolactinoma.

- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test can help identify anemia, which may result from heavy menstrual bleeding.

Your friends may suggest taking menstrual regulation medications, but it is essential to understand that these medications may only mask the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause. Additionally, since you have been experiencing these symptoms for several years, it is crucial to rule out any serious conditions before starting any treatment.

Regarding Your Symptoms:
- The presence of yellowish discharge with an unpleasant odor after menstruation could indicate an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is essential to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they may require specific treatment.

- The excessive pain you experience during your menstrual cycle could be due to dysmenorrhea, which can be primary (related to menstrual cramps) or secondary (due to underlying conditions like endometriosis).
Concerns About Development:
You mentioned concerns about whether your irregular periods are related to being 17 years old and potentially having an underdeveloped uterus. While it is true that some young women experience irregular cycles as their bodies adjust to hormonal changes, the duration and severity of your symptoms warrant further investigation.
In conclusion, while it may seem overwhelming to undergo additional tests, they are vital for understanding the root cause of your irregular menstruation and associated symptoms. Addressing these issues early can lead to effective management and improvement in your quality of life. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a tailored plan that addresses your concerns and symptoms.

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