Nigeria’s 40 million women of childbearing age (between 15 and 49 years of age) suffer a disproportionally high level of health issues including the burden of irregular “menses”. There’s no escaping that time of the month for women. However, quite unfortunately, the essential biological process is often hushed amongst other pivotal concerns of society.
Discussing menstruation is such a taboo, that a significant chunk of girls are not even aware of menstruation, when they hit their first period, often leading to a barrage of confusion and anxiety in the young mind about the basic biological transformation happening in her body. Periods could be really painful for some, bringing along with it severe cramps, back pain, bloating, etc. It is definitely not the best time, also for the hormones being very unpredictable.
The ovaries, which are present in the lower part of a women’s abdomen, start to produce hormones in girls around puberty which causes changes to the lining of the uterus. Every month during periods, the lining of the womb is shed along with some blood. The length of the menstrual cycle (the time between the start of one period and the start of the next) is usually 28 days; if it exceeds a week then it can be problematic. As then comes the issue of irregular periods. However, there are many home remedies for irregular periods that one can follow.
An irregular period is medically known as oligomenorrhea, which is a common issue in women. Many factors can cause this problem, such as eating disorders, weight loss or gain, anemia, menopause, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalance, liver disease, tuberculosis, miscarriage, and other health conditions. Lifestyle triggers like increased exercise, smoking, alcohol abuse, caffeine, travel, stress, and certain medications and birth control pills can also contribute to this problem. Irregular periods are common at the time of menopause.
Here are some home remedies which can help you with irregular periods
- Unripe Pawpaw
Green, unripe papaya is considered useful in regulating menstrual flow as it helps contract muscle fibers in the uterus. Consume unripe papaya juice regularly for a few months but do not drink it during your periods. Green, unripe papaya is considered useful in regulating menstrual flow.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is considered to be one of the best-medicated herbs which is quite warming as well. It is helpful in regulating menstruation and balancing hormones. The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties relieve menstrual pain. Consume one-quarter teaspoon of turmeric with milk, honey, or jaggery. Take it daily for several weeks or until you see improvement.
- Aloe Vera
Do not use this remedy during your periods. Aloe vera helps treat menstrual irregularities naturally by regulating your hormones. To get the best results, extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf, mix in one teaspoon of honey and consume it daily before having your breakfast.
- Ginger
Ginger is majorly grown in the Northern regions of the country, especially Kaduna. While Gombe, Bauchi, Benue, Nassarawa, and some others are smaller producers of the crop. Kaduna state is the largest ginger-producing state in Nigeria. Ginger is highly recommended for regulating menstrual cycles and getting rid of irregular periods.
Boil 1 tbsp of fresh ginger for 5 minutes. Add little sugar and drink the mixture three times a day after your meals.
- Cumin
Cumin is loaded with a number of health benefits. Soaked cumin can be used in the treatment of irregular period. Take 2 spoons of cumin seeds and soak in water overnight and drink both in the morning. You need to drink this water every day to get your periods regularised.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon not only helps enhance the taste of your dishes but significantly contributes to regulating your menstrual cycle too. It provides a warming effect within your body. Take a glass full of warm milk and add a teaspoon of powdered cinnamon and drink it. It is even effective in eradicating menstrual cramps. Types Of Sanitary Pads and Tampoons In Nigeria
