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I have trouble with my period
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A normal condition where menstrual periods stop due to decreasing levels of hormones from the ovaries. Menopause marks the end of the reproductive age for the women. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51 years. Menopause is abnormal if it occurs too early (under 40 years old). While menopause is normal, many women suffer from hot flashes, sleep disturbances and other symptoms that can be disruptive to their enjoyment of life when entering menopause.
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
Menopause is a normal part of aging for women, but some of the symptoms can be uncomfortable and require treatment. For hot flashes, simple measures like dressing in layers, wearing loose clothing and applying cold towels to the body may help alleviate the discomfort. If these fail, seeing a specialist for hormonal therapy can help.
Reviewed By:
Ravi P. Chokshi, MD (Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN), Critical Care)
Current Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellow with Dual board certification in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Critical Care Medicine. | 5+ years experience managing a general Ob/Gyn practice and working in the Intensive Care Unit. | Previously Physician Lead of a large single specialty practice with 8 Physicians and 10+ Advanced practitioners. | Member of the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine Patient education committee. | Frequent Medscape Consult contributor.
Seiji Kanazawa, MD, PHD (Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN))
Dr. Kanazawa graduated from the Niigata University Faculty of Medicine and received his Ph.D. from the Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine. He is working on the front line of the General Perinatal Center, including the Tokyo Tama General Medical Center and the National Center for Research in Fertility Medicine, where he provides maternal and fetal care and undertakes clinical research. At Ubie, Dr. Kanazawa has been designing the Ubie AI Symptom Checker and has taken on the role of general obstetrics and gynecology consultation at FMC Tokyo Clinic by providing fetal ultrasound and prenatal consultation.
Content updated on Mar 31, 2024
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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Q.
Melatonin for Women 30-45: Safety, Hormones & Vital Next Steps
A.
Melatonin for women 30 to 45 is generally safe for short-term sleep support at low doses (about 0.5 to 3 mg), but it can influence reproductive hormones, may affect ovulation at higher doses, and will not correct root causes like perimenopause, thyroid problems, or mood disorders; there are several factors to consider, and the specifics are below. For vital next steps, start low and reassess after a few weeks, and talk to a clinician if you are trying to conceive or have irregular bleeding, severe night sweats, persistent insomnia, or mood changes so underlying issues are evaluated and the right plan is chosen, with important details outlined below.
References:
* Anis M, Aseel M, El-Said I. Melatonin in female reproduction: a clinical perspective. Minerva Obstet Gynecol. 2021 Jul;73(4):460-466. doi: 10.23736/S2724-606X.21.04838-5. Epub 2021 Apr 22. PMID: 33887018.
* Gupta S, Pathak A, Kumar S, Mishra S, Singh J, Verma S. Melatonin and female infertility: A clinical overview. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Dec 15;13:1085028. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1085028. PMID: 36590729; PMCID: PMC9797204.
* Hu Y, Ma X, Han X, Zhao R, Yang C, Fu Y, Han S, Zhang Y. The effect of melatonin on oxidative stress markers, pregnancy rate, and clinical outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Nov 25;13:1052608. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1052608. PMID: 36498877; PMCID: PMC9734187.
* Bonomini F, Laudadio E, Cinelli M, Bresciani M, Borsani E, Favero G, Rodella LF. Melatonin and Human Reproduction. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2018 Sep 11;2018:4927164. doi: 10.1155/2018/4927164. PMID: 30279899; PMCID: PMC6154316.
* Li Y, Wang H, Wang J, Zhang Z, He Y. Impact of Melatonin on Hormonal Imbalance and Female Reproductive Diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Jul 11;13:922241. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2022.922241. PMID: 35898741; PMCID: PMC9313261.
Q.
Methylene Blue for Women 30-45: Benefits & Your Action Plan
A.
For women 30 to 45, methylene blue may support brain clarity, mood, and cellular energy, but evidence is early, benefits are not guaranteed, and risks like serotonin syndrome and G6PD-related anemia mean it should only be considered at low doses with medical guidance. There are several factors to consider. See below for a step-by-step action plan with foundational fixes, lab checks for thyroid, iron, and hormones, perimenopause guidance, who should avoid it, medication interactions especially with SSRIs and SNRIs, safe-use tips, and when to talk to a doctor about next steps.
References:
* Pinto-Silva M, Martins C, Almeida S, Santos J, Silva AP. Methylene Blue as a Potential Treatment for Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021 Sep 10;10(9):1443. doi: 10.3390/antiox10091443. PMID: 34573121; PMCID: PMC8469850.
* Tarasova V, Yapar C, Abud EM, Li H, Chen Z, Pan Y, Wang P, Liu H. Methylene blue: a future drug for neuroprotection? Drug Discov Today. 2020 Sep;25(9):1643-1648. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.06.002. Epub 2020 Jun 16. PMID: 32559591.
* Alda M, D'Souza S, Ramezani A, Zekaj E, Karuppagounder SS, Singh AK, Gandy S, Kumar U, Miriyala S, D'Souza C, Kaja S, Kumar S. Methylene Blue: A Versatile Therapeutic Agent with Diverse Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Nov 22;23(24):14555. doi: 10.3390/ijms232414555. PMID: 36555135; PMCID: PMC9782570.
* Xie L, Zhang B, Shi H, Zhang Q, Guo Y, Hou M. Methylene blue delays cellular senescence and aging through mitochondrial rejuvenation and epigenetic regulation. Aging Cell. 2022 Mar;21(3):e13589. doi: 10.1111/acel.13589. Epub 2022 Feb 21. PMID: 35191349; PMCID: PMC8922579.
* Cai Z, Hu B, Cao D, Li Z, Hu S. Methylene Blue as a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Focus on Mood and Cognitive Dysfunction. J Alzheimers Dis. 2020;77(1):1-14. doi: 10.3233/JAD-200388. PMID: 32628172.
Q.
Cottage Cheese: Managing Health Symptoms for Women Over 65
A.
Cottage cheese can be a practical, nutrient-dense choice for women over 65, offering high-quality protein to help limit age-related muscle loss, calcium and phosphorus to support bones, and low carbs that may steady blood sugar while aiding weight maintenance. There are several factors to consider. See below to understand more about choosing lower-sodium options if you have high blood pressure, when kidney disease or dairy allergy means caution, sensible portions and easy ways to add it, and when to seek medical guidance for ongoing symptoms so you can decide your best next steps.
References:
* Reitelseder S, Bechshøft CF, Højfeldt G, Larsen AE, Kristensen M, Ritz C, Bæk A, Hansen M. Dairy Protein Intake and Muscle Mass and Strength in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Clin Nutr. 2022 Mar;41(3):702-716. doi: 10.1007/s00198-021-06246-8. Epub 2021 Dec 29. PMID: 35000570.
* Zheng D, Wu T, Wu Y, Yang M, Lin X. Dairy Product Consumption and Risk of Osteoporosis in Older Women: A Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 1;14(1):166. doi: 10.3390/nu14010166. PMID: 35010996; PMCID: PMC8747447.
* Dhana K, van Dam RM, Chae CU. Higher Protein Intake and Weight Management in Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2021 Sep 7;13(9):3121. doi: 10.3390/nu13093121. PMID: 34579042; PMCID: PMC8468764.
* Zhong J, Chen GC, Zhao H, Hou J, Zhang J, Li K, Li D. Dairy products and the risk of type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023 Nov;118(5):983-999. doi: 10.1016/j.ajcn.2023.08.017. Epub 2023 Aug 24. PMID: 37626996.
* Guo J, Astrup A, Lovegrove JA, Gijsbers L, Givens DI, Soedamah-Muthu SS. Dairy intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Clin Nutr. 2021 Apr;40(4):1833-1845. doi: 10.1016/j.clnu.2020.08.011. Epub 2020 Aug 17. PMID: 32888636.
Q.
Is Naproxen Safe After 65? What Every Woman Needs to Know
A.
Naproxen can be appropriate for some women after 65, but age increases the risks of stomach and intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart complications, and medication interactions, so it should be taken only at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time with medical oversight. There are several factors to consider, including your health conditions, other drugs you take, safer alternatives like acetaminophen or topical NSAIDs, and warning signs that need urgent care. See below for complete details and practical steps to decide the safest next move with your clinician.
References:
* Buser M, Luedi M, Schoenenberger L, et al. Adverse effects of NSAIDs in older adults. Ther Adv Drug Saf. 2018;9(1):29-37. doi:10.1177/2042098618765013.
* Kahan SM, Solosko CL, Tishler L. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Older Adults: A Narrative Review. Drugs Aging. 2020;37(8):561-570. doi:10.1007/s40266-020-00787-8.
* Gislason GH, Johnsen SP, Nørgaard ML, et al. Cardiovascular Safety of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Older Adults. Drugs Aging. 2021;38(8):697-705. doi:10.1007/s40266-021-00870-1.
* Chang CH, Chen YC, Yeh YC, et al. Risk of gastrointestinal bleeding with selective and non-selective NSAIDs: a meta-analysis of observational studies. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2017;83(12):2800-2810. doi:10.1111/bcp.13398.
* Cieslak JB, Khayata H, Cieslak D, et al. Polypharmacy in Older Women: A Review. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2020;29(5):637-643. doi:10.1089/jwh.2019.8055.
Q.
Latest Health News: Vital Breakthroughs for Women Over 65
A.
Key breakthroughs for women over 65 include more personalized heart risk prevention, earlier memory detection with new Alzheimer’s options, faster-acting osteoporosis therapies plus fall-prevention, tailored cancer screening, stronger senior-focused vaccines, and gentler diabetes and gut health strategies. There are several factors to consider that could change your next steps, including individualized blood pressure and statin plans, whether to continue certain screenings, and which boosters to get; see below for practical details and what to discuss with your clinician.
References:
* Regitz-Zagrosek V, Oertelt-Prigione S, Prescott E, et al. Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Disease. Circ Res. 2022 Mar 4;130(5):679-692. doi: 10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.121.319711. Epub 2022 Mar 3. PMID: 35240248.
* Tu KN, Kang S, Kim S, Chung YS. Emerging treatments for osteoporosis: an update on pharmacological options. J Bone Metab. 2023 Feb;30(1):15-28. doi: 10.11005/jbm.2023.30.1.15. Epub 2023 Feb 28. PMID: 36855140.
* Zsido GA, Napiwotzky L, Klafke L, Hueston CM, Miller WM, Balthasar M, Stöckl L, Thormann M, Sacher J. Hormone therapy and risk of Alzheimer's disease: a critical review and future directions. Brain Commun. 2021 Nov 22;3(4):fcab253. doi: 10.1093/braincomms/fcab253. PMID: 34870020; PMCID: PMC8610111.
* Lheureux S, Gourley C, Vergote I, Ledermann JA. Advances in the Management of Ovarian Cancer: A Review. JAMA Oncol. 2021 Sep 1;7(9):1409-1418. doi: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2021.1611. PMID: 34160492.
* Vetrano DL, Wirth R, Rolland Y, et al. Healthy aging: a review of the evidence. Eur Geriatr Med. 2022 Oct;13(5):955-962. doi: 10.1007/s41999-022-00683-0. Epub 2022 Feb 7. PMID: 35132549.
Q.
Oil of Oregano for Women 65+: Natural Benefits & Safety Tips
A.
Oil of oregano may support immunity, digestion, and mild inflammation in women 65+, but it is a concentrated supplement and there are several factors to consider. For safer use, keep doses low and short-term with products labeled for internal use, monitor for side effects, and check for interactions with medicines like blood thinners, diabetes, or blood pressure drugs; see the complete guidance below on who should avoid it, when to talk to a doctor, and other details that could influence your next steps.
References:
* Jaiswal SK, Singh MK, Singh S, Mehra M, Singh DK, Dwivedi R, Mahto H, Singh A. A comprehensive review on ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of Origanum vulgare L. J Ethnopharmacol. 2020 Jul 15;257:112832. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112832. Epub 2020 Apr 23. PMID: 32684177.
* Khedher A, Ghannay S, Hajlaoui H, Ghrab D, Benammar R, Ben Salah H, Messaoud C. Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) Essential Oil. Molecules. 2022 Jan 5;27(1):322. doi: 10.3390/molecules27010322. PMID: 35010633; PMCID: PMC8747477.
* Srivastava SK, Singh P, Mishra G, Singh A. Safety assessment of Origanum vulgare (oregano) essential oil. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2018 Nov;99:118-125. doi: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2018.09.006. Epub 2018 Sep 11. PMID: 29775317.
* Chami N, Bennis S, Chami F, Abourriche A, Boulam Anwar E, Sendide K, Remmal A. Antifungal activity of oregano essential oil against Candida albicans. J Mycol Med. 2017 Sep;27(3):399-405. doi: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2017.03.003. Epub 2017 Mar 29. PMID: 28836521.
* Ulusoy HG, Yildiz S. Therapeutic potential of carvacrol in disease prevention. Nutr Rev. 2018 Jan 1;76(1):50-61. doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nux059. PMID: 29339327.
Q.
Quercetin for Women 65+: Benefits for Aging, Heart & Immunity
A.
Quercetin may gently support healthy aging in women 65+ by helping reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, with modest benefits for blood vessel function, blood pressure, and immune efficiency when paired with a heart-healthy lifestyle. There are several factors to consider, including potential medication interactions, dose and absorption differences between foods and supplements, and that it should not replace prescribed care; for food sources, safety guidance, and when to talk to a doctor, see below.
References:
* D'Andrea G. Quercetin: A Review of Bioactivity and Applications. Molecules. 2015 Oct 13;20(9):11769-95. doi: 10.3390/molecules200917769. PMID: 26470054.
* Vakilha R, Moradi M, Nazari H, Farsinezhad L, Salehi B, Shahrzad MK. Effect of Quercetin Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Markers in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Complement Med Res (Basel). 2022;29(5):387-400. doi: 10.1159/000525997. Epub 2022 Aug 2. PMID: 35919632.
* Khatib N, Almatrafi F, Almatrafi S, Alshahrani S, Alsaiari A. Quercetin and immunity: A narrative review. J Food Biochem. 2023 Mar;47(3):e14532. doi: 10.1111/jfbc.14532. Epub 2023 Jan 3. PMID: 36611417.
* Chung JY, Shin D, Hong YJ, Lim S, Lee H, Kang JS, Chon S, Kim S, Park HS, Oh S. The senolytic effects of quercetin and its derivatives: A review. J Funct Foods. 2022 Nov;98:105295. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2022.105295. Epub 2022 Sep 1. PMID: 36230691.
* Boesch-Saadatmandi C, Wolffram S, Rimbach G. Effect of quercetin on age-related changes in the expression of antioxidant and inflammation-related genes in rat liver. Exp Gerontol. 2010 Mar;45(3):189-95. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2009.11.009. Epub 2009 Nov 27. PMID: 19944111.
Q.
Sea Moss for Women Over 65: 5 Vital Benefits for Healthy Aging
A.
For women over 65, sea moss may support healthy aging by aiding thyroid function, easing digestion, contributing minerals for bones and muscles, offering gentle immune support, and promoting skin, hair, and overall vitality. There are several factors to consider, and key context that could change next steps is explained below. Because benefits depend on iodine balance, product quality, dose, and your medications or conditions, start low, choose tested products, and talk with your doctor. See the safety, dosing, and when-to-seek-care guidance below to inform your next steps.
References:
* Liu Y, Jiang Z, Chen C, Zhao Q, Li X, Lin H, Wu Y. Dietary carrageenan from Chondrus crispus modulates the gut microbiota composition and improves intestinal barrier function in mice. Food Funct. 2018 Jan 24;9(1):159-166. doi: 10.1039/c7fo01185f. PMID: 29285409.
* Sun Y, Wang C, Wang J, Shi Z, Wei M. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of polysaccharides from Chondrus crispus. Int J Biol Macromol. 2021 May 1;179:50-59. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.02.139. PMID: 33549721.
* Ye M, Yu X, Lv X, Wang Y, Xu H. Immunomodulatory effects of sulfated polysaccharides from Chondrus crispus in vitro. Int J Biol Macromol. 2016 Oct;91:982-987. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2016.06.012. PMID: 27417086.
* Mishra AK, Sreedevi G, Jha B, Singh M, Ramalakshmi R, Singh S, Maity D, Jayabalan R. Health benefits of seaweed derived bioactive compounds for geriatric population. J Food Sci Technol. 2016 Apr;53(4):1757-1766. doi: 10.1007/s13197-016-2187-y. PMID: 27162391.
* Lozano-Méndez M, Olivares-Bañuelos TN, Aguilar-Hernández DA, Chávez-Salgado RA, Escalona-Monge L, Cruz-Monterrosa RG, Castillo-Ruiz O. Health-promoting properties of red edible seaweeds: A comprehensive review. J Food Sci. 2022 Jul;87(7):2974-3001. doi: 10.1111/1750-3841.16198. PMID: 35762024.
Q.
Why Women Over 65 Need Chickpeas: The Secret to Healthy Aging
A.
Chickpeas are a healthy aging powerhouse for women over 65, offering protein, fiber, and key minerals that help maintain muscle and mobility while supporting bones, heart health, digestion, steady blood sugar, brain function, and weight stability. There are several factors to consider. For portion ideas, affordable ways to use them, and important cautions such as kidney or digestive conditions and when to speak to a doctor, see the complete guidance below.
References:
* Esmaeili M, Esfandiari M, Mozaffari-Khosravi H, et al. Legume consumption and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Nutr Sci. 2022;11:e65. doi:10.1017/jns.2022.65
* Xu M, Meng S, Zhang Q, et al. Consumption of pulses and risk of cardiovascular diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):1898. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-81156-z
* Sun M, Zhao G, Zhang J, et al. Dietary fiber intake and risk of cognitive decline in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Nutr Health Aging. 2023;27(4):295-304. doi:10.1007/s12603-023-1906-8
* Pinheiro MB, de Azevedo SC, Bacha JM, et al. Role of plant-based protein in the prevention and management of sarcopenia: A systematic review. J Nutr Sci. 2023;12:e83. doi:10.1017/jns.2023.83
* Thompson HJ, McDougall M. Health benefits of pulses and their effects on chronic disease. Br J Nutr. 2021;126(Suppl 2):S10-S23. doi:10.1017/S000711452100139X
Q.
Can menopause cause prolonged heavy bleeding?
A.
Yes, menopause can lead to prolonged heavy bleeding, particularly during the menopausal transition, which is the period leading up to menopause known as perimenopause. This phase is characterized by hormonal fluctuations that can significantly affect menstrual patterns.
References:
Paramsothy P, Harlow SD, Greendale GA, Gold EB, Crawford SL, Elliott MR, Lisabeth LD, Randolph JF Jr. Bleeding patterns during the menopausal transition in the multi-ethnic Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN): a prospective cohort study. BJOG. 2014 Nov;121(12):1564-73. doi: 10.1111/1471-0528.12768. Epub 2014 Apr 16. PMID: 24735184; PMCID: PMC4199918.
El Khoudary SR, Qi M, Chen X, Matthews K, Allshouse AA, Crawford SL, Derby CA, Thurston RC, Kazlauskaite R, Barinas-Mitchell E, Santoro N. Patterns of menstrual cycle length over the menopause transition are associated with subclinical atherosclerosis after menopause. Menopause. 2021 Oct 11;29(1):8-15. doi: 10.1097/GME.0000000000001876. PMID: 34636354; PMCID: PMC9178927.
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Link to full study:
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.08.29.24312810v1Minkin MJ. Menopause: Hormones, Lifestyle, and Optimizing Aging. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2019 Sep;46(3):501-514. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2019.04.008. Epub 2019 Jun 21. PMID: 31378291.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889854519300518?via%3DihubPaciuc J. Hormone Therapy in Menopause. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2020;1242:89-120. doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-38474-6_6. PMID: 32406030.
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-38474-6_6ACOG Patient FAQ
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/the-menopause-yearsACOG Practice Bulletin
https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2014/01/management-of-menopausal-symptoms