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Dr. Christine Vergara, the Gynecology center at Mercy, Notes That Problem Periods May Be Sign of Other Medical Issues
According to Dr. Christine Vergara of The Gynecology Center
at Mercy, a woman's menstrual cycle is a good reflector of other
things going on inside the body. Consider the case of Tameka
Smith, 29, who suffered with an irregular period for years. "(I
would be) on one month, and not again for another six months
sometimes," she said. Smith has seen doctors over the years because
of it, but recently she was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian
syndrome, or PCOS, as the reason for her problems. Dr. Vergara
said the menstrual cycle is a window into a woman's health. "Just
like if you have abnormalities in blood pressure or pulse, it
could be a sign of hypertension or heart problems. Problems with
the menstrual cycle could be a sign of problems with another
system," she said. Some of the problems could include an endocrine
imbalance, like PCOS, where testosterone levels are high. It
could also mean a thyroid dysfunction, ovarian failure or tumors.
Vergara said because PCOS can lead to diabetes and heart problems,
she put Smith on medication, an exercise regimen and she's seeing
a nutritionist. "We made a deal -- no junk food or fast food
for one year, "Smith said. Doctors said there is a wide range
of what is considered normal, but if you're having problems you
should talk to your doctor about finding the source.
For more
information, contact Dr. Vergara at 410-332-9200 or call 1-800-M.D.-Mercy.
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