Talking about menstruation is still taboo in our society. A significant number of girls are not even aware of this biological phenomenon when they hit puberty. This leads to anxiety and confusion in them. They end up getting into unhygienic menstrual practices. For some, periods could be really painful too. Cramps, back pain, bloating etc. are part and parcel of this monthly cycle. Hormones are also quite unpredictable at this time and their level keeps on changing every now. It is around the age of 10-12 years that the ovaries present in lower abdomen of girls start producing hormones.

This brings about changes in the uterine lining. This lining is shed every month along with the blood (if there occurs no fertilization), thereby giving a start to the monthly menstrual cycle. The periods usually last for 4-7 days and the cycle is usually 28 days with different phases beginning with the menstrual phase and followed by follicular, ovulatory and, luteal phases. If the cycle exceeds, for say, beyond a week after the period of 28 days, that is considered irregularity in periods. Medically known as Oligomenorrhoea, irregular periods is a common problem seen in women. It could be due to unhealthy eating habits, weight loss or gain, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalance, miscarriage, anemia, and other lifestyle habits like smoking, consumption of alcohol, stress, medications, birth control pills, etc. It is normal at the time of menopause (usually occurs around the age of 45-50 years).

Listed below are some of the foods which one can use to prepare remedies that can be helpful in treating the issue of irregular periods.

• Unripe Papaya

Green, unripe papaya promotes contraction of muscle fibers in the uterus which eventually help in regulating menstrual flow and easing the period pain. It contains a high amount of carotene which is known to regulate estrogen levels in the body. It is helpful in inducing menses.

• Turmeric

Turmeric produces heat in the body. It is one of the best-known medicinal herbs. It can be consumed with milk, honey, or any other desired form. It brings a balance in the hormones, thereby regulating the menstrual cycle.

• Ginger

Eating raw ginger can help in contracting uterine muscles and in maintaining the hormonal balance of body. It contains gingerol that controls inflammation in the body.

• Cumin

To bring regularity in periods, one can consume 2 tablespoons of cumin seeds soaked in water overnight. Cumin helps in releasing the trapped blood from the uterus.

• Cinnamon

It has a warming effect on the body and is known to regulate the menstrual cycle by controlling insulin levels of the body. To consume it, a teaspoon of cinnamon can be added to a glass of warm milk.

Regular and consistent consumption of the above-mentioned foods can help in getting regularity in periods. But if there is some underlying disorder, one must consult a doctor before trying anything else.