The theory now prevails that accompanying the maturation of the ovum there is a flow of blood to the generative organs, which in medical parlance is called hyperemia. The exudation of this venous blood from the membrane of the uterus constitutes menstruation; also that this menstruation is a provision of nature for the supply of a superabundance of blood, which during pregnancy is appropriated to the growth of the fetus. Thus is it allied to maternity leading us to regard this function with reverence.
In a normal state the discharge is slight, being from one to three ounces, and lasts two or three days.
Certain physiologists claim that all sanguineous flow is abnormal, that there should be no show of blood in a perfectly healthy woman. It is averred that the squaws of some Indian tribes have no show accompanying either ovulation or parturition.
Menstruation should be entirely devoid of suffering. A woman should have no cognizance of this function, save by the discharge. Could this be the rule, instead of the prevalent exception, the capacity of strength and endurance either for work or pleasure would be increased one hundred fold. The nation not only needs strong men but strong women, strong in physical as well as mental development. This strength is required for prosecuting a persistent warfare against prevailing and existing wrongs, as well as for transmitting health and vigor to the coming generation.
A woman in perfect health need take no especial care and make no change in her manner of life at this period. But under our artificial habits of life, such a woman is the exception rather than the rule, and in most cases some attention must be paid to the recurrence of the menses.
Many young ladies in attendance upon school, feel a need of some indulgence at that time, and are often granted respite from duty. Women following any regular occupation have learned to plan a day of lighter work at the recurrence of the period. Yet on the contrary some have found that congestion and pain are relieved by occupation sufficient to interest the mind, with exercise adapted to increase the circulation.
The disorders incident to menstruation are: Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea and Menorrhagia.
Amenorrhea is absence or suppression of the menses caused by cold, a chronic ailment, an anemic condition or some ovarian or uterine affection. It is also often the result of mental conditions, as grief, fright or severe mental strain.
One need not be uneasy about suppression when there is no special constitutional disturbance. Our grandmothers taught that the absence of the menses was always greatly to be feared, the prevailing idea being that serious results would follow to some vital organ. This is a mistake.
Patients during treatment for uterine ulceration and inflammation often gain steadily in health, although the menses cease for months. This has been observed especially in hygienic institutions.