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How do you support your cycle and how do you ensure a regular cycle?
Do you sometimes wonder why you feel fantastic one day, and like a hormonal whirlwind the next? And do you quickly realize: “ah, that’s because my period is coming,” or actually in the days leading up to my ovulation. Having a menstrual cycle is part of being a woman; it is part of who we are and makes us unique. But… does your cycle sometimes get in your way? Do you feel out of balance, or are you wondering how best to support yourself during the different phases? Then Viv Support is happy to help you on your way with information, lifestyle and nutritional advice, especially for women who want more control over their natural rhythm. What is a normal cycle? On average, a cycle lasts 28 days, although a duration of between 21 and 35 days is also quite normal. During this cycle, a natural rhythm occurs: the cycle starts on the first day of your period and progresses through the ovulation phase (around day 14) to the luteal phase, in which the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. A period usually lasts 3 to 7 days. During your cycle, your energy, mood, and needs may change; this is perfectly normal. It helps to be mindful of this and adjust your lifestyle accordingly if necessary. Signs of an irregular cycle Not every woman has a regular cycle. Signs that may indicate your cycle is out of balance: A cycle shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days Menstrual periods that often skip Strong fluctuations in blood loss or cycle length Feelings of fatigue, irritability, or mood swings that persist throughout the month These types of signals are often functional or hormonal in nature. It is important to listen carefully to your body in such cases. Support through diet, lifestyle, and certain herbs can be helpful. Later, we will delve deeper into a special herb in this context. If you have concerns or doubts, it is wise to consult a doctor or specialist. Do you want to know how you can support your body throughout your cycle? Read on and discover the possibilities! Tips for your lifestyle Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps support your hormonal balance and can positively influence your mood, energy levels, and circulation. Think of walking, yoga, cycling, Pilates, swimming, and dancing. Strength training: Light to moderate strength training supports muscle building and stimulates metabolism. This can indirectly contribute to hormonal stability, especially in the second half of your cycle. For example, start with bodyweight exercises (such as squats and planks). Reduce stress: Prolonged stress can have a major impact on your cycle. Relaxation is therefore super important. Try breathing exercises, meditation, walking in nature, or spending time on something YOU enjoy. Really, above all, do what makes YOU happy; that is the most important thing. Ensure you get enough sleep: Sleep supports your recovery and hormonal rhythm. Create a soothing bedroom and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and screen time in the hour before bed. Also, create a fixed bedtime ritual, such as a warm shower, reading a relaxing book, or a few minutes of meditation. Support your natural rhythm: reflect on your energy throughout the month. Do you have more energy around ovulation? Schedule demanding tasks (mental or physical) for those days. Be kinder to yourself in the days before your period. Tips for your diet: Eat enough healthy fats. Healthy fats are essential for the production of sex hormones. Think of avocado, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Eat enough protein: Protein also helps with hormone production. Furthermore, protein contributes to muscle recovery and your energy levels. Good sources include eggs, fish, poultry, tempeh, and yogurt or quark (if you tolerate dairy). Limit sugars: Strong fluctuations in your blood sugar levels can lead to mood swings and hormonal imbalance. Choose complex carbohydrates from vegetables, fruit, sweet potatoes, and oatmeal. Ensure you get enough iron and magnesium: Eat iron-rich foods such as spinach, beans, and meat. Also add some magnesium-rich products to your diet, such as dark chocolate, nuts, and leafy greens. Magnesium helps with relaxation, among other things. Drink plenty of water and herbal tea: Hydration is important, especially during menstruation or ovulation when you lose fluids. Herbal tea such as chamomile or nettle provides gentle, natural support. Special herb in the spotlight: Chasteberry Chasteberry* is traditionally used to support the female body during the cycle. Why is Chasteberry so interesting? Supports the maintenance of a normal menstrual cycle Helps with discomfort before menstruation Contributes to emotional balance during the cycle and helps with irritability and mood swings during the menstrual cycle. Evaluation of health claims is ongoing Finally Your menstrual cycle is not a burden, but a source of strength that asks for attention. By getting to know your body better, adjusting your lifestyle, and being kind to yourself, you can stay in balance with your natural rhythm. Viv Support is happy to help you with this by sharing knowledge that suits your stage of life. Do you want to supplement Chasteberry? Then click here .
Learn moreVivian Reijs: Books on hormonal balance and health
books about hormonal balance and health
Learn moreMenstruation does not start: what could be the cause and what can you do?
This is an information page. Viv Support has no products intended for this indication/application. It is a scenario many women face: your period is supposed to start, but it doesn't come or just won't get going. If your period doesn't start, it can cause a lot of uncertainty. You might wonder if there is something wrong with your body, if it is a sign of pregnancy, or if there is another underlying cause. Don't worry, we will dive deeper into the possible causes and give you insights into what you can do. What does it mean if your period doesn't start? If your period does not start, there can be various causes. In some cases, it is no cause for concern, but in others, it can be an indication that something is wrong. The most important thing is to listen carefully to your body and keep an eye on any symptoms. Possible reasons why your period doesn't start There are several reasons why your period might not start. Below, we discuss some of the most common causes. 1. Pregnancy One of the first thoughts when your period is late is often whether you are pregnant. If you are pregnant, your period stops. If your period is late, a pregnancy test can quickly provide clarity. However, keep in mind that the result of a test at an early stage may not yet be reliable. It may be helpful to wait a few days and take the test again. 2. Hormonal disturbances Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Stress, changes in diet, too much or too little exercise, or the use of contraception can all affect the hormonal balance in your body. When your body is under the influence of hormones, your period may not start as normal. Recognizable? You might notice that your cycle is different, that your period sometimes misses, or that you feel more emotional or tired just before your period. Those are often signs that your hormones are out of balance, and that is exactly what we discuss in this free guide 👇 3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) In women with PCOS, the ovaries can develop multiple cysts that disrupt hormone production. This can lead to irregular or missed periods. PCOS is a common condition that is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as weight gain, acne, or excessive hair growth. 4. Life stage and age Age also plays a role in your menstrual cycle. Young girls who are just starting to menstruate may have irregular cycles, while women approaching menopause may also experience irregular periods. This is due to the hormonal changes the body undergoes during these periods. 5. Medical conditions or medications Sometimes medical conditions such as thyroid problems, diabetes, or stress can affect your period. Medications, such as certain antidepressants or antipsychotics, can also disrupt menstruation. If you have recently started taking a new medication, this could be the cause of your missed period. What can you do if your period doesn't start? If your period is late or does not start, there are a few things you can try: Take a pregnancy test: This is the most obvious first step, especially if you are sexually active. It can be helpful to repeat the test a few days after a missed period, as the pregnancy hormones in your body may only be accurately detectable then. Check your stress level: Stress can have a major impact on your hormonal balance. Try relaxation techniques, such as meditation, to reduce your stress. Pay attention to your diet and exercise: Unhealthy habits can disrupt your period. Ensure a healthy balance of diet and exercise to keep your menstrual cycle regular. Wait a few days: Sometimes your period comes later than you expect. Wait patiently before investigating further or taking action. Consult your GP: If your period is delayed for a long time, or if you are worried, it is wise to consult your GP. This is certainly the case if you have already taken multiple negative pregnancy tests and your period is still absent. When should you consult your GP? Although it is sometimes normal for your period to be late, there are cases where it is wise to consult a doctor: If you haven't had your period for more than a few months. When you experience other symptoms in addition to a missed period, such as painful menstrual cramps, severe abdominal pain, or irregular bleeding. If you suffer from severe hormonal fluctuations that affect your daily life. A doctor can investigate whether there is a medical condition, such as PCOS or thyroid problems, that could be the cause of your missed period. Information and support At Viv Support, we understand that a missed period can be a frustrating and distressing experience. That is why we offer reliable information and support so that you better understand what is going on. We have years of expertise and experience in providing care and advice on women's health, including hormonal imbalances and menstrual issues. Would you like more information about missed periods? Then click here . We are happy to help you. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What can I do if I should have had my period but my menstruation hasn't started? If your period is late, you can start by taking a pregnancy test. Wait a few days and test again if the first test was negative. You can also monitor your stress levels and ensure you have a healthy diet and get enough exercise. 2. How do I know if I am pregnant if my period doesn't start? The most reliable way to know if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. If the test is negative, it may be that you tested too early, or that there is another reason for your missed period. 3. Is it normal for your period not to start sometimes? It can be normal, especially if it is caused by stress, hormonal fluctuations, or age. However, if your period is absent for an extended period, it is wise to discuss this with a doctor. Do you suffer from other discomforts such as mood swings and irritability? Then click here for more information. At Viv Support, we are happy to help you with reliable information about menstruation and women's health. We understand that uncertainty about your menstrual cycle can be upsetting, but with the right guidance, you can ensure you make the best choices for your health. Do you want to understand your hormones even better? Many menstrual problems – such as a missed or delayed cycle – are linked to hormonal imbalance. In our free guide “ Get Rid of PMS: 10 Steps to Hormonal Balance,” you will discover: 🌿 What happens in your body before your period 🧠 How to bring your hormones back into balance 💪 And what you can do today to feel better
Learn moreMenstrual complaints: causes, symptoms, and solutions
This is an information page. Viv Support has no products intended for this indication/application. Menstrual complaints occur every month and can disrupt daily activities. Whether it involves severe menstrual pain, an irregular menstrual cycle, or other discomforts, many women experience discomfort during their period. Fortunately, there are various ways to alleviate the symptoms and better understand the menstrual cycle. What are menstrual symptoms? Menstrual complaints refer to the physical and emotional discomforts that many women experience during their menstrual cycle. These complaints can range from mild to severe forms of pain and discomfort and can affect daily life. Some of the most common menstrual complaints are: Severe menstrual pain: Cramps and pain in the lower abdomen that are often intense. Heavy blood loss: More blood loss than normal, which can lead to fatigue. Headache: Menstrual-related headaches are common. Bloated feeling: This discomfort is often a symptom of the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. Mood swings (PMS): Irritability, mood swings, and even depressive feelings can occur before or during menstruation. These symptoms are often caused by the hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle. Your hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, influence how your body feels and functions and can lead to these discomforts. Causes of menstrual complaints There are various causes of menstrual complaints. The following discusses the most important factors that influence the menstrual cycle and the associated symptoms: Hormonal changes: During the menstrual cycle, the balance of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone changes. These fluctuations can lead to severe menstrual symptoms, including painful periods and mood swings. Endometriosis: In women with endometriosis, the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, which can cause severe pain, especially during menstruation. Fibroids: These are benign growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding and pain. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): PMS occurs just before menstruation and causes a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal condition can lead to irregular periods, which in turn can cause menstrual complaints. Symptoms of menstrual complaints The symptoms of menstrual complaints can vary from woman to woman. Some common symptoms of menstrual complaints are: Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea): This is often the most common complaint and can lead to severe pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, caused by the contraction of the uterus. Heavy blood loss: This can range from an increased menstrual flow to leakage from sanitary pads or tampons. Heavy blood loss can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and even anemia. Bloated feeling: This often occurs just before or during menstruation and can worsen the feeling of discomfort. Headache: Many women experience headaches or migraines as a result of the hormonal changes that occur during menstruation. Mood swings: Pain, discomfort, and hormonal fluctuations can lead to emotional swings, which are often associated with PMS. Want to read more about mood swings and how to reduce them? Click here. How to relieve menstrual complaints? There are various ways to relieve menstrual discomfort. Below are some useful tips to reduce menstrual discomfort: Heat: Using a heating pad or hot water bottle on the lower abdomen can alleviate the pain of menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterus. Healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruit, and fiber can help balance your hormones, which can reduce menstrual symptoms. Exercise: Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation and can relieve menstrual pain. Sufficient rest: Ensure you get enough sleep and give your body the chance to recover from menstruation. When should you seek medical help? Although menstrual complaints are normal, there are cases where you need medical help. Consult a doctor if: Your period is heavy and you experience leakage from a sanitary pad or tampon within an hour. The pain is not relieved with lifestyle changes or even gets worse. Your periods are irregular or stop for extended periods without a clear cause. You experience pain during or after sex , or pain when urinating. In these cases, your doctor can investigate whether underlying medical conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroids, are present. Trust in Viv Support At Viv Support, we understand the impact that menstrual complaints can have on your daily life. We offer comprehensive support for women struggling with menstrual complaints, providing information and advice. If you want more information about menstrual discomforts, click here . Frequently asked questions about menstrual complaints 1. What can I do about severe menstrual pain? Heat, such as a heating pad, can help relieve the pain. Physical exercise can also help reduce the symptoms. 2. How do I know if my menstrual symptoms are normal? If your menstrual pain is severe, your menstrual blood loss is abnormal, or your menstrual cycles are irregular, it may help to consult a doctor. This also applies if you experience severe pain during sex or urination. 3. Can diet help relieve menstrual symptoms? Yes, a healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can balance your hormones and relieve menstrual symptoms. Also, avoid too much salt and caffeine, as these can worsen symptoms.
Learn moreMenopause: suddenly got my period again after six months
This is an information page. Viv Support has no products intended for this indication/application. Menopause is an important life stage for women, accompanied by a wide range of physical changes. In many cases, periods stop gradually, but what if you get your period again after six months? This can be normal, but it can also be confusing and worrying. Blood loss after menopause is something many women experience, but what exactly does it mean? And when should you take action? Viv Support explains everything about the possible causes of blood loss after menopause and how best to deal with it. What if you start bleeding again after six months? The transition, also known as the menopause , marks the end of your fertile years. This usually occurs around the age of 50, but periods can start as early as age 40 and last until you have not had a period for about a year after your last menstruation. After a year without periods, you are therefore officially in menopause. It is possible for women to experience bleeding again after six months . This is usually harmless and may be consistent with periods starting to fluctuate and you approaching menopause, but it can also indicate medical problems that require attention. Blood loss after six months is one of the most common complaints women experience during menopause. Women often assume that menstruation has stopped permanently, but what if you suddenly start bleeding again? This can be alarming, but it doesn't have to be. The causes can range from hormonal changes to more serious conditions such as fibroids or uterine cancer. Causes of blood loss after menopause There are several reasons why you might get your period again after six months . Let's look at some of the most common causes: Hormonal changes related to hormones: irregular menstruation Menopause involves a change in hormone levels, particularly a drop in estrogen. These fluctuations can cause your menstrual cycle to temporarily return, even if you haven't had a period for many months. Uterine fibroids and polyps Fibroids (benign growths in the uterus) or polyps can also lead to bleeding after menopause . Fibroids are more common after menopause and can range from small and harmless to larger and problematic. Polyps, which form in the uterine wall or cervix, can sometimes also lead to bleeding. In some cases, these must be surgically removed. Thickening of the uterine lining Menopause can cause the uterine lining to become thicker than normal. This can be the result of a hormonal imbalance, which can lead to blood loss . It is important to have this checked, as a thickened uterine lining can indicate other underlying problems. Some women experience increased discomfort from this. Cervical or uterine cancer Although it is a rare cause, bleeding after menopause can also be a sign of cervical or uterine cancer. It is a serious condition that must be investigated in detail by a doctor to determine if this is the cause of the bleeding. When should you see the gynecologist? It is not always easy to determine when you should get examined if you suddenly experience blood loss again after six months. In many cases, it is harmless, but it is essential to remain vigilant. Doctors are slightly more cautious during this period because the risk of problems with the uterine lining increases somewhat. Here are some situations where it is certainly wise to make an appointment with your gynecologist : Experiencing blood loss 1 year after your last period : If you have not had a period for 1 year , or have not had a period for 1 year and suddenly experience blood loss again, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Irregular or heavy bleeding: If the bleeding is irregular or particularly heavy, this may indicate a medical cause that needs to be investigated by a general practitioner or gynecologist. If the gynecologist finds no abnormalities, further examinations may be performed to determine the cause. Pain or other unusual symptoms : If you also experience other symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or abnormal discharge, this may indicate a problem that requires further investigation. Blood loss after surgery or treatment, prior to the examination : If you have recently had a procedure or are undergoing treatment, blood loss may be a complication that requires further investigation. Period again after six months: consider getting checked out If you start bleeding again after six months , it is important to investigate the cause. A gynecologist can perform various tests to determine the cause: Ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries One of the first examinations the gynecologist will perform is an ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries. This helps identify any fibroids, polyps, or other abnormalities in the uterus. The ultrasound can also help determine if there is a thickening of the uterine lining. Pap smear A Pap smear is important to rule out cervical cancer. This examination is performed as standard procedure for women who experience bleeding after menopause , to ensure that everything is in order. Endometrial check If there is thickening of the uterine lining, the gynecologist may suggest further examination of the lining. This can be done by means of a hysteroscopy, during which the inside of the uterus is examined. Internal ultrasound Sometimes an internal ultrasound is necessary to examine the uterine lining more closely and to check for abnormalities in the uterine wall. What to do about blood loss after menopause? It is important to take your health seriously if you have periods again or experience bleeding after six months . What can you do? Pay close attention to the pattern : Is it irregular or heavy ? Do you have pain? If the blood loss is different from what you are used to, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Stay in contact with a gynecologist : Regular contact with your doctor can help determine whether the blood loss is harmless or if further investigation is needed. A gynecologist can perform the appropriate tests to determine what is going on. Continue to monitor your health : Pay attention to other symptoms such as pain, weight fluctuations, fatigue, or changes in your hormone levels. This can help determine if other medical conditions are at play. Trust Viv Support At Viv Support, we understand how important it is to be well-informed about your health, especially when it comes to sensitive topics, such as getting your period again six months after menopause . Our years of experience and collaboration with healthcare experts ensure that we can support you in understanding the changes your body is going through. By listening carefully to your body and taking the right steps, you can put your mind at ease or receive the correct treatment. Do you want to know what hormonal changes occur around menopause – and what you can do to feel better? Frequently Asked Questions Why am I bleeding again after menopause? This can be caused by hormonal changes, fibroids, polyps, or a thickening of the uterine lining. In some cases, it can also indicate a medical condition such as uterine cancer. Is it normal to lose blood again after a year without a period? It is not normal if you have not had a period for a year and suddenly experience blood loss again. In that case, it is important to consult a gynecologist for further examination. What examinations does a gynecologist perform for bleeding after menopause? The gynecologist can perform an ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries, a Pap smear , and an internal ultrasound to determine the cause of the blood loss. If you want more information about menopause and symptoms such as hot flashes, click here .
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