periods

Toxic shock syndrome

What is toxic shock syndrome? Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a very rare but serious illness caused when toxins are released into the bloodstream from bacteria. The toxins can cause symptoms of shock and can also damage organs and body tissue, which can cause death if left untreated. It is often caused by staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. TSS can affect anyone. It is more common among women when they are menstruating, but there is no evidence that tampons cause TSS. What are the symptoms of toxic shock syndrome? TSS can cause a number of symptoms, including: diarrhoea a sudden high

Managing period pain

Key facts Period pain is common and can feel different from person to person. Heat packs, exercise and relaxation may help you manage period pain. Pain relieving medicines, hormonal treatments and other pain relief techniques can help. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice. In some people, period pain is caused by an underlying health condition. Treating the underlying condition can relieve the pain. See your doctor if your pain changes, doesn’t respond to treatment or stops you doing your usual activities. What does period pain feel like? Period pain, also called dysmenorrhoea, is common. It can prevent some

Retained object or tampon

Sometimes an object (also known as a ‘foreign body’) can become stuck in the vagina, or you may simply forget it is there. Common objects that may get stuck include tampons, condoms (or pieces of a condom if it has split), a contraceptive device (such as a diaphragm or sponge), or something inserted for sexual pleasure, such as a sex toy. It is important for the object to be removed as soon as possible. If you have tried to remove it but failed, you should consult a health professional as soon as possible. Retained tampon A tampon is ‘retained’ when

Premenstrual syndrome – [ PMS ]

Key facts Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) describes physical changes as well as changes in mood that may occur around a week before your period each month. Although the exact causes of PMS are unknown, it is thought to be linked to the normal changing hormone levels during your menstrual cycle. There are several ways to help manage and treat symptoms of PMS including exercise, stress management, dietary modification and various medicines. Around 8 in every 100 females experience a more severe type of premenstrual syndrome called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. What is premenstrual syndrome? Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) describes physical changes as well

Periods during breastfeeding

Key facts After having a baby, your periods will return at your body’s own pace. If you are breastfeeding, your periods may not return for months or even years after childbirth. It’s possible to become pregnant while you are breastfeeding. If you want to avoid pregnancy, talk to your doctor or nurse about safe contraception methods while breastfeeding. When will my periods return while I’m breastfeeding? After having a baby, your periods will return at your body’s own pace. If you are breastfeeding your baby, your periods may not return for months or even years after childbirth. If your baby is being fed

Menstruation

Key facts Menstruation (also called a period) is bleeding from the vagina that happens once a month as part of the menstrual cycle. Each month the lining of your uterus becomes thicker to prepare the body for a potential pregnancy — if you don’t become pregnant, the lining breaks down and flows out as a period. Periods usually last 3 to 7 days and may sometimes be accompanied by abdominal pain and mood changes — but each female’s experience is different. Menstruation may stop because of changes in weight, stress, intensive exercise, hormone problems or medicines. See your doctor if

Heavy periods

Key facts Heavy periods are common and affect about 1 in 5 females. The amount of blood lost during a period differs from person to person. Some people pass clots (clumps of blood) with their period. Heavy periods can lead to low iron levels and anaemia. Speak to your doctor if you feel your periods are heavy or affecting your quality of life. See your doctor immediately if you experience any bleeding after menopause. The amount of blood lost during a period differs from person to person. Some people pass clots (clumps of blood) with their period. Heavy periods are common and affect about

Dysmenorrhoea

Key facts Period pain is common and is usually not caused by another health problem. Sometimes, an underlying health problem may be causing the pain. It’s important to see your doctor if you experience any change in your period pain or bleeding pattern. Relaxation, gentle exercise and heat packs can help relieve period pain. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on medicines that may relieve your period pain. Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea) How does period pain feel? There is a wide range of how period pain feels and how severe it is. Period pain (dysmenorrhoea) is usually felt in

Irregular periods

Key facts When you first start getting your period, it’s normal for your menstrual cycle to be irregular. For most people, menstrual periods will eventually become regular, but some never develop a regular cycle. There are many lifestyle factors and medical conditions that can cause your periods to become irregular. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. See your doctor if your periods are irregular. Even if it doesn’t bother you, it’s important to check what is causing this and whether it is healthy for you. If your period is late or has stopped, it’s very important to check if you