Menstrual Cycle Red Flags You Should Never Ignore
Your menstrual cycle is more than just a monthly event-it's a vital sign of your overall health. Just like your heartbeat or blood pressure, your period provides valuable insight into what's happening inside your body.
Yet, too often, women are told that painful, irregular or disruptive periods are just "part of being a woman".
The truth? These symptoms are red flags that shouldn't be ignored.
If you've been struggling with intense cramps, irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms, your body is trying to tell you something. Let's dive into the key menstrual red flags and what they could mean for your health.
1. Skipped Periods
Missing a period every once in a while due to stress or travel isn't usually a big concern. However, if you're frequently skipping periods or going months without one (outside of pregnancy or menopause), it could be a sign of:
- Hormonal imbalances (such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - PCOS)
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Pituitary issues
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Excessive stress or over-exercising
💡 What to do: Track your cycles and consult with a trusted healthcare professional or naturopath (me) if you regularly miss periods. Your body needs support to restore balance. If it's PCOS go purchase PCOS Balance Tea. If you have thyroid dysfunction, purchase Thyroid Support.
2. Very Light Periods
A light flow can be normal for some women, but if your period suddenly becomes much lighter than usual or barely there, it may indicate:
- Low estrogen
- Nutrient deficiencies (such as iron or B vitamins)
- Chronic stress or high cortisol levels
- Birth control side effects
💡 What to do: Ensure you're eating a nutrient-dense diet and managing stress. Purchase Adrenal Support to help you maintain cortisol balance.
3. Bleeding Between Periods
Spotting between periods isn't normal and could be caused by:
- Hormonal imbalances (especially estrogen dominance)
- Fibroids or polyps
- Birth control side effects
- Underlying reproductive health issues
💡 What to do: If you notice frequent spotting or mid-cycle bleeding, speak with a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions and work with a trusted naturopath and clinical herbalist (hello!).
4. Intense Cramps and Pains
Period cramps can be uncomfortable, but they should never be debilitating. Period pain is common, but should never ne considered normal. If your cramps and pains are so severe that they disrupt your daily life, it could be a sign of:
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis
- Fibroids
- Chronic inflammation
- Parasitic infection
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
💡 What to do: Painful periods are not something you have to live with. Support your body with inflammatory foods, herbal remedies, and lifestyle adjustments to reduce pain naturally. Shop our "Period Health" tab for natural herbal supplements that support your period health. If you need 1:1 support, schedule a FREE Health Discovery Call.
5. PMS and PMDD (Severe Mood Swings, Depression, or Anxiety Before Your Period)
While mild mood shifts before your period are common, severe mood swings, depression, or anxiety may be signs of:
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
- Estrogen dominance or progesterone deficiency
- Blood sugar imbalances
- Cortisol imbalances
- Nutrient deficiencies (such as magnesium, zinc, or omega-3s)
💡 What to do: Balance your blood sugar and cortisol levels, support progesterone levels, and incorporate stress-reducing practices to ease PMS symptoms naturally. Purchase Blood Sugar Support and Adrenal Support.
6. Heavy Bleeding (Soaking Through Pads/Tampons in an Hour or Less)
Excessive bleeding (menorrhagia) can lead to anemia and fatigue. Possible causes include:
- Hormonal imbalances (high estrogen, low progesterone)
- Fibroids or polyps
- Iron deficiency
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Bloot clotting disorders
💡 What to do: If you're soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, this is a serious concern-don't ignore it! Increase iron-rich foods, supplement with Iron Support and seek medical evaluation to rule out serious health issues.
7. Fatigue and Low Energy During Your Cycle
Feeling drained before, during, or after your period can be a sign of:
- Iron deficiency or anemia
- Adrenal fatigue
- Poor sleep quality
- Blood sugar imbalances
- Poor work-life balance
💡 What to do: Focus on iron-rich foods, supplement with Iron Support, support your adrenal health with Adrenal Support, hydration, and rest to replenish your energy levels. Improving your work-life balance is wise too!
8. Breast Pain or Tenderness
Breast pain before your period is often linked to:
- Excess estrogen (estrogen dominance)
- Liver congestion (poor detoxification of hormones)
- Inflammation and lymphatic stagnation
💡 What to do: Reduce inflammatory foods, support your liver with our detoxifying herbs, and consider lymphatic drainage techniques like dry brushing and exercise.
Your Period Is a Window Into Your Health
Your menstrual cycle is a powerful indicator of your overall well-being. Instead of masking symptoms with birth control or painkillers, addressing the root cause can lead to long-term relief and hormonal balance.
At Inspire Organics-Holistic Apothecary & Wellness, we believe in supporting women's health naturally through herbal remedies, nourshing foods, and holistic wellness solutions.
If you're experiencing any of these red flags, don't ignore them; your body is asking for help.
Be Well and Take Care,
Shavonne