How to Regulate Your Menstrual Cycle Naturally: Tips and Insights

How to maintain a regular menstrual cycle?

From middle school to my first year of graduate school, my menstrual cycle was almost regular, occurring once a month, sometimes delayed by a few days (around a week).
I didn't keep a strict record since I was single.
However, starting from my second year of graduate school, my periods have often been significantly delayed, sometimes by over a month or even two.
Recently, I've also experienced sudden increases in menstrual flow, making my previous sanitary products inadequate.
I understand that some days have heavier flow, but it's more than before.
I previously consulted a gynecologist, and the doctor mentioned that if I wasn't in a hurry to have children, it was not a concern.
However, that experience was very unsatisfactory, and I felt completely disrespected.
I believe menstruation is a form of detoxification for women, and I love children; I want to have kids in the future.
However, I know that as I age, it becomes more challenging to conceive, so I feel the need to take good care of my health.
Since I dislike visiting obstetricians and gynecologists, I want to explore other methods, such as dietary therapy.
I suspect my issues might be stress-related because I rarely stay up late and don't eat many snacks.
I'm unsure if masturbation (once a day) has any impact.
Recently, I've been doing this frequently (not every day).
Since yesterday, August 15th, I've experienced some frequent urination, and even after urinating, I still feel the urge.
I'm not sure if this is caused by masturbation or if there are other reasons.
Recently, I've started learning experiments, and since I had no prior background, during practice, I sometimes skip meals or water.
This might also be related to holding my urine on Saturday, August 15th, but it wasn't for long.
Thank you.

Hua Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/16

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it is still recommended that you seek medical evaluation.
If an infection is confirmed, treatment is necessary.

2.
High levels of stress are a common cause of irregular menstruation; it is encouraged to relax more and engage in regular exercise.
Masturbation can also lead to menstrual irregularities.

3.
Recommendations are as follows: maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid staying up late, exercise regularly, maintain an ideal weight, and relax.
Most individuals can achieve regular menstruation.
If irregularities persist over a long period, please seek medical treatment.

Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/08/16

More Info

Regulating your menstrual cycle naturally can be a multifaceted approach that involves lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and stress management. Given your situation, where you have experienced irregular periods and increased menstrual flow, it's essential to consider various factors that could be influencing your menstrual health.

Understanding Menstrual Irregularities
Menstrual irregularities can stem from several causes, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in weight, and underlying health conditions. It's good that you've consulted a gynecologist, but if you felt disrespected or unsatisfied with that experience, seeking a second opinion from another healthcare provider may be beneficial.

Lifestyle Adjustments
1. Stress Management: Stress is a significant factor that can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your daily routine. These practices can help lower cortisol levels, which may help regulate your cycle.

2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help balance hormones and improve overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, combined with strength training exercises twice a week. Activities like walking, cycling, or swimming can be beneficial.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you are getting enough quality sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Poor sleep can exacerbate stress and hormonal imbalances.

Dietary Considerations
1. Balanced Diet: Focus on a well-rounded diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds) can help reduce inflammation and may support hormonal balance.

2. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial for overall health and can help alleviate some menstrual symptoms. Aim for at least 8 cups of water a day, adjusting based on your activity level.

3. Herbal Remedies: Some women find relief from menstrual irregularities with herbal supplements. For example, chaste tree berry (Vitex) is often used to help regulate menstrual cycles. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you are taking other medications.

Monitoring Your Cycle
Keeping a menstrual diary can help you track your cycle, symptoms, and any lifestyle changes you make. This information can be valuable for healthcare providers if you seek further advice.

Addressing Increased Flow
If you notice a significant increase in menstrual flow, it’s essential to monitor this closely. Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, fibroids, or other health issues. If this persists, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform the necessary evaluations.

Other Considerations
Regarding your concerns about frequent urination and its potential link to masturbation, it's generally considered a normal activity and shouldn't significantly impact your menstrual cycle. However, if you notice changes in urinary habits, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

Conclusion
Regulating your menstrual cycle naturally involves a holistic approach that includes managing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring your health. While lifestyle changes can significantly impact menstrual health, it’s essential to remain in touch with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice and support. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical evaluation.

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