Healthy Living

Signs and Symptoms of Stress

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Irregular Periods and Severe Cramping

That time of the month for women is already stressful enough, what with all the cramping, bloating, bleeding, hormonal shifts, cravings, and so on. Stress, though, will amplify these inconveniences, making them much more painful and overwhelming. Stress can also cause your ovaries to release legs too early or not at all, and that means you get an irregular cycle. In turn, you are even more stressed, because now you never know when you are going to get your period, if you made a mistake with the birth control, or other fears.

Stress can also shut your entire reproductive system down for a time. This condition is called amenorrhea. Although not having a period might seem like a blessing, this is actually a dangerous condition that may lead to premature osteoporosis and even infertility.

Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing suddenly heavier, more painful periods or if your menstrual cycle has shut down completely. For those who are struggling with painful periods, exercise and NSAIDs can offer some relief.