Adverse mood changes and fluid retention are very common in the days just prior to a menstrual period. such problems are vexing and can be difficult to treat but are a result of normal hormonal variations during the menstrual cycle. the menstrual cycle varies from woman to woman. periods may be regular, irregular, light, heavy, painful, pain- free, long, or short, and yet still be normal. the rhythm of a menstrual cycle is medically less significant than bleeding, pain, or discharge between periods.only when problems are severe or recur for several months is medical attention required. the doctor can find such problems as endometriosis- the presence of the soft of tissue that line the uterus in other parts of the body, where it can cause problems, emergency treatment is seldom needed.

Home Treatment:
We believe that diuretics (pills that help the body get rid of fluids through increased urination) and hormones are rarely needed. as we have said in other pages of this blog, we prefer the simple and natural to the complex and artificial. we have all too frequently seen hormone treatment lead to mood changes that are worse than premenstrual tension, and diuretics lead to potassium loss, gouty arthritis, and psychological drug dependency. salts tends to hold fluids in the tissues. the most natural way to start fluids move is to cut down on salt intake. in the U.S, the typical diet has ten times the required amount of salt. many authorities feel that this is one cause of high blood pressure and arteriosclesis. if you can eliminate some salt, you may have less swelling and fluid retention. if food tastes flat without salt, try using lemon juice as a substitute. commercial salt substitutes are also satisfactory. products with the word "sodium" or the chemical symbol "na" anywhere in the list of ingredients contain salt.

For menstrual cramps, use ibuprofen like advil etc,  naproxen or aspirin. products claimed to be designed for menstrual cramps (such as midol) now have ibuprofen as the main ingredient. many patients swear such compounds, and they are fine if you want to pay the premium. we don't understand why, on a scientific basis, they should be any better than plain ibuprofen or naproxen is usually most effective, but sometimes aspirin or acetaminophen may be preferred.

Difficult Periods:
Is the problem premenstrual tension or fluid retention?
* if yes, use home treatment
* if no, use home treatment also

Has the bleeding been heavy for several months?
* if yes, see a doctor
* if no, use home treatment

Is the pain severe, and has the pain failed to respond to home treatment?
* if yes, see a doctor
* if no, use home treatment

Abnormal discharge from the vagina is common but shouldn't be confused with the normal vaginal secretion's, which are thin, clear, and painless. some of the many possible causes require the doctor.
The problem may be treated at home for a time if:
- The discharge is slight, doesn't hurt or itch, & isn't chessy, smelly, or bloody
- There is no possibility of a venereal disease
- The patient is past puberty.




 Signs of Trouble:
Abnormal pain suggests the possibility of serious disease, ranging from gonorrhea to an ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tube. bloody discharge between periods, if reccurent or significant in amount, suggests much the same. discharge in a girl before puberty is rare and should be evaluated.
If sexual contact in the past few weeks might possible have resulted in a venereal disease, the doctor must seen, don't be afraid to take this problem to the doctor. be frank in naming your sexual contacts, for their own benefit. information will be kept confidential, and the doctor will not embarass you, doctors are commonly confronted with this situation.

Home Treatment:
 Hygiene & patience are the home remedies. if you have a discharge, douche daily & following intercourse with a betadine solution (two tablespoons to a quart of water, or 30ml to a liter) or baking soda (one teaspoon to a quart, or 5ml to a liter). if the discharge persists despite treatment for more than two weeks or becomes worse, see the doctor. do not douche for 24 hours prior to seeing the doctor.
Medication active against yeast (monistat, etc) are now available without prescription.

Some signs that may indicate an abnormal vaginal discharge and infection