Menstrual disorders in the college age female.
College-age young women frequently experience a variety of menstrual-related complaints, including dysmenorrheal, menorrhagia, irregular menses, and menstrual-related mood changes. These problems deserve careful evaluation; they may reflect normal ovulatory menstrual symptoms or be suggestive of significant pathology that can have a major impact on future reproductive and general health. The menstrual cycle is a vital sign whose normalcy suggests an overall good health and whose abnormality requires evaluation. Eating disorders and the female athlete triad increase the risk of osteoporosis; polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with future cardiovascular risks. Diagnosis and management of these problems will not only improve a young woman's current health, sense of well-being, and overall quality of life but may also lower her risks for future disease and ill-health. This article addresses normal menstrual function, excessive bleeding, infrequent or absent menses, pain with menses, menstrual-related mood disorders, and recommendations about routine gynecologic examinations and evaluation.
Adams Hillard
Paula J
PJ
Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, ML 4000, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA. paula.hillard@cchmc.org
Deitch
Helen R
HR
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000502:physiology; D008599:Menstruation Disturbances / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D013334:Students; D014495:Universities; D016387:Women's Health