Menstruation is a natural, monthly process in which the lining of the uterus is shed, resulting in vaginal bleeding. As far as the term retrograde goes, it means ‘directed or moving backwards.’ Retrograde menstruation is when menstrual blood takes a U-turn and flows backward into the abdomen instead of out of your vagina. As fascinating and frightening as it may sound, it is actually more common than you think. In fact, nearly 90% of women experience it to some degree, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Madhushree Vijayakumar, Consultant-Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, shed light on the condition, shared its symptoms, and discussed its complications.
Also Read: Menstrual Health: Expert Decodes 5 Menstrual Disorders
Who Is At Risk?
Retrograde menstruation can occur in any menstruating woman. While researchers are still unable to understand the exact cause of the condition, Dr Vijayakumar suggested that there are several factors that can contribute to its development and increase the risk. These include:
- A genetic predisposition to retrograde menstruation
- Conditions affecting the immune system, contributing to inflammation and abnormal tissue responses
- Structural abnormalities in the reproductive organs, such as the tilted uterus or small cervical opening
Symptoms To Watch Out For
Some of the common symptoms of retrograde menstruation include:
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pelvic pain, which can range from mild discomfort to intense cramping
- Irritation to the lining of the pelvis, leading to discomfort during intercourse
- Irregularities in menstrual cycles, including changes in the duration and intensity of bleeding
- Infertility
Difference Between Normal And Retrograde Menstruation
The most striking difference between normal and retrograde menstruation is the flow of the menstrual blood.
“In normal menstruation, blood and uterine tissue exit from the body through the cervix and vagina. However, in retrograde menstruation, the blood moves back up through the body, flowing through the fallopian tubes and into the abdominal cavity,” explained Dr Vijayakumar.
Also Read: Symptoms Of Endometriosis-Related Leg Pain: Why It Occurs And How To Treat It
The Risk Of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, referred to as the endometrium, grows outside the uterus, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, bowel, and other parts of the body.
Every month, the tissue goes through the same changes as the endometrium inside the uterus, thickening, breaking down, and bleeding. However, unlike the lining inside the uterus, this misplaced tissue has no way to leave the body, hence causing pain, heavy or irregular periods, and increasing the risk of infertility.
According to Dr Vijayakumar, retrograde menstruation increases the likelihood of developing endometriosis, which in general affects roughly 10% of reproductive-age women and girls globally, as per the World Health Organization (WHO).
However, a study published in the Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Report suggests that while retrograde menstruation is common, endometriosis is less prevalent. So, there's more to what meets the eye. According to the study, the condition could also occur due to hormonal issues, inflammation, or even the body confusing blood cells and making them act like the uterus lining.
Treatment Options
In the case of retrograde menstruation, Dr Vijayakumar recommended considering certain treatment options (but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional). These include:
Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills, can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce the severity of symptoms.
In severe medical cases, surgery such as laparoscopic surgery may be recommended to address anatomical abnormalities or remove the uterus.
In the case of fertility issues, one can consider assisted reproductive technologies.
Conclusion
Retrograde menstruation is a common condition that occurs in most women, of which many are unaware. It is characterised by the backward flow of menstrual blood into the pelvic cavity, which is said to increase the risk of endometriosis. It is important to understand, assess, and address the factors contributing to retrograde menstruation to manage and treat related health issues. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have painful cramps, irregular menstrual bleeding, or experience infertility issues.