Dr Michelle Chia

There can be several causes behind your menses lasting for a shorter duration than normal. An average woman's periods usually last between 3 to 7 days. The underlying causes generally will depend on a few factors for example: A woman's age - whether the woman is approaching menopause Any other underlying medical problems (e. g. thyroid issues) Any other medications (e. g. birth control pills) Lifestyle (e. g.

It is important to have a proper discussion and consultation with your doctor in order to decide and agree on a suitable method of birth control for yourself. Some factors that we do take into consideration include factors such as: Your age Medical history Whether you are on any other medications or have any signifiant family history of cancers or clotting issues Menstural history Smoking Sexual history Compliance to medications Lifestyle or job schedule, etc.

The Mirena IUD is an extremely effective method of long acting reversible contraception (LARC) that can help prevent an unwanted pregnancy. On top of that, it is also useful to manage conditions such as heavy menstrural periods and painful period cramps. Some common side effects after getting a Mirena IUD fitted can include some irregular spotting which can usually resolve after a few months, following which you will not experience any bleeding at all. This is due to the progesterone hormone that is inside the Mirena which keeps the womb lining thin.

Women diagnosed with Polycystic ovarian syndrome commonly experience irregular menstural periods. It is important to get evaluated early and to consider treatment for period regulation as not having your periods for a prolonged period of time can lead to excessive build up of your womb lining. One of the most useful medications that is common prescribed for girls with PCOS is the birth control pill. This is an very effective way to regulate your periods.

The withdrawal method is an extremely unreliable method of birth control as there may be the presence of pre-ejaculate which can also contain sperm. The timing of withdrawal may also be incorrect. A woman in her 40s will still stand a chance of pregnancy as long as she has not undergone menopause yet (though chances are lower compared to women in their 20s or 30s). I encourage you to consider proper, safe and effective birth control methods to prevent an unwanted pregnancy if you are considering birth control methods. You may refer to this article here for more information: https://www. human.

A yellowish-green colored vaginal discharge does sound like a possible vaginal infection. The possible types of vaginal infections are: [1] Candidal Vulvovaginitis. Patients suffering from Candidal Vulvovaginitis often observe itching, burning, white discharge and stinging on urination. Bacterial Vaginosis. Patients suffering from Bacterial Vaginosis often observe a fishy vaginal smell and thin, white vaginal discharge. Trichomoniasis.

Urination before unprotected sex is definitely not a method to be used as birth control if you are concerned about preventing an unwanted pregnancy. You are right in mentioning that pre-ejaculate can also contain sperms which can lead to fertilization and unwanted pregnancy. This makes the withdrawal method an extremely unreliable method of birth control. If you are not ready for pregnancy yet, then I do recommend and encourage you to speak to a doctor regarding reliable, effective and safe contraceptive methods which can be of great help for you.

Persistent vaginal spotting and bleeding for more than a month is a symptom that should definitely be further investigated by your doctor. Causes can include vaginal infections, cervical problems, pregnancy, polyps in the womb or cervix, or rarely, abnormal cell changes in the womb. As such, it is definitely recommended for you to speak to a doctor regarding your symptoms and to seek treatment as early as possible.

Clogged milk ducts are a very common occurrence with breastfeeding mothers and tend to be a huge problem due to the pain and difficulties it brings with potential infection of the milk ducts.

Postpartum eczema can be due to the hormonal changes post-pregnancy which result in dry and itchy skin. The main ways to treat eczema will be via topical steroids. Also, ensure that you use a good quality moisturizer. It should be gentle on the skin to avoid dryness which can exacerbate the eczema flare and itch. You can also use antihistamines to control the itchiness and to avoid scratching.

There are several benefits of breastfeeding, both to the baby as well as to the mother. Breastfeeding helps to encourage closeness and bonding between the mother and baby.

Breast lumps are relatively common in young women. With breast lumps, the main worry for most patients would be whether these lumps are malignant or not. My first advice would definitely be to see a doctor to consult regarding your breast lump. Breast lumps can usually be investigated via a breast ultrasound for younger women, and if any suspicious features are found, a biopsy or review by a breast specialist may then be recommended. Ultrasound costs will vary depending on the clinic you visit, whether it is a private or government clinic.

Certain medications when consumed by a breastfeeding mother, may be able to pass through to her breast milk and in turn be passed to the baby. This applies even to painkillers. Painkillers, particularly opioids, may pass through into the breastmilk to the baby. This may in turn lead to unwanted side effects such as excessive drowsiness or difficulties in breathing for the new born baby. If unsure, please consult your doctor before consuming any painkillers while you are breastfeeding.

Birth control pills are generally pretty affordable, with several brands available in Singapore. The cost of birth control pills may vary depending on the brand of pills that you are looking for. Generic brands can cost as cheap as less than $10 per box, while the more popular brands such as Yasmin can cost an average of $30+ per box. You will require a doctor's prescription to obtain the pills in Singapore, and it would be better to have a consultation first to ascertain if you are suitable to take the pills.

Norethisterone is a type of hormonal medication which contains the hormone called progesterone. This is commonly prescribed by doctors to women who wish to delay their periods due to travelling etc. While this medication is relatively safe to consume, some common side effects experienced may include bloating, headaches or slight water retention and weight gain. Of course with any medication, there may also be a slight risk of drug allergy. This should also not be taken if there is any chance of pregnancy.