Periods can be a tricky time for many women, and the hormonal changes during that phase often bring along a range of issues—acne being one of the most frustrating.
If you’ve ever wondered why your skin breaks out like clockwork right before or during your cycle, you’re not alone. Many women experience these hormonal ups and downs, and the impact can sometimes be overwhelming. With so many myths and mixed advice out there, we decided to sit down with experienced gynecologists Dr. Azra Ahsan & Dr. Humera Mansoor to get to the bottom of this.
Dr. Azra Ahsan, MBBS, MRCOG, FRCOG, is a renowned Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at New Beginnings Healthcare and Medicell Clinics. She also serves as the President of the Association for Mothers and Newborns (AMAN), where her expertise and dedication to women’s health have made a significant impact. Joining her is Dr. Humera Mansoor, MBBS, MCPS, an accomplished Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Clinical Assistant at New Beginnings Healthcare and Medicell Clinics, as well as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of AMAN.
Why do periods seem to wreak havoc on our skin? Is there anything we can do to prevent these breakouts? And how do our hormones play such a huge role in this process? Let’s find out some answers and bust a few myths along the way!
Is There A Correlation Between Acne & Periods?
There can be a correlation, they can be independent also.
Dr. Azra Ahsan
There can be a correlation between acne and periods, but they can also be independent of each other. How do you know which one is affecting you? It’s not always necessary to visit a gynecologist specifically; a knowledgeable general practitioner at a wellness clinic can guide you just as well. We were told that there’s no need to test for everything or take medicine for every symptom. Acne, especially for young girls, is often triggered by hormonal changes during puberty, and in many cases, it clears up on its own.
However, if you’re noticing that your acne is persistent, getting worse, or leaving marks on your skin despite following a basic skincare routine—like using products for oily skin—it’s a good idea to consult a doctor. Dr. Azra shared that while some people might need more detailed checkups to determine if their acne is linked to hormonal imbalances, especially those related to periods, there’s no need for extensive testing in most cases. A simple solution, like oral contraceptive pills, is often effective in controlling acne, though many have misconceptions about them. If your acne persists or worsens, seeking medical advice is always a wise choice.
Imported Pads VS Local Pads – Which One Is Better?
I don’t like those international brands at all and their so-called quality. They are not made for our country.
Dr. Azra Ahsan
Dr. Azra and Dr. Humera expressed a strong preference against international brands of sanitary pads, stating that their so-called quality does not cater to the needs of women in Pakistan. They criticized the polyester and plasticky surfaces of these pads, noting that many women and girls experience skin reactions to this non-breathable fabric. They highlighted that while the top surface of local fabrics may not absorb as much moisture as it should, they are still more skin-friendly. They emphasized the importance of using cotton pads, which are available in Pakistan, as they prevent excessive sweating and moisture build-up, reducing the risk of fungal infections, especially in humid weather.
Both doctors stressed that when selecting pads, comfort and sufficient thickness for absorption are crucial to prevent leaks. They rated local pads much higher in terms of being skin-friendly compared to international brands. They also discussed the duration for which a pad should be worn, emphasizing that it should not be for 24 hours. The frequency of changing pads depends on individual flow; ideally, one should change pads every 2 to 3 hours if bleeding is heavy. However, if the flow is not heavy, they suggested that changing pads about three times a day should suffice, as long as the pads are not soaked.
Does Stress Affect Hormonal Balance?
Any kind of stress can affect your hormones. Iski wajah se apki menstrual cycle delay bhi ho sakti hai aur frequency increase bhi ho sakti hai.
Dr. Azra Ahsan
Both doctors discussed the impact of stress on hormonal balance. They emphasized that any kind of stress can significantly affect menstrual cycles. They explained that situations like moving to a new place can lead to missed periods. Additionally, facing challenges can increase the frequency of periods. The constant hustle and bustle of life can also contribute to these hormonal fluctuations. While they encouraged young women to engage in multiple activities, they acknowledged that it’s essential to maintain awareness of one’s health. Maintaining menstrual regularity is also crucial, and they suggested regular checkups to ensure overall well-being.
The doctors highlighted importance of parental guidance, especially when children are about to hit puberty. They advocated for open discussions about bodily changes during this time. Many girls face their first period without adequate knowledge. This lack of knowledge often leads to fear and misinformation. The doctors pointed out that shame surrounding menstruation prevents girls from discussing it openly. This results in limited understanding of the subject. They stressed that mothers often do not communicate effectively with their daughters about these topics. As a result, girls frequently learn from unreliable sources. They emphasized the necessity of having meaningful conversations at home. Finally, they suggested that girls should receive appropriate information from their parents. They should not turn to social media or friends for guidance.
What Causes Extreme Period Pain In Many Girls, & How Can It Be Alleviated?
The most common reason for periods is ovulation. Periods are painful during the cycle in which the egg is formed.
Dr. Azra Ahsan
The doctors discussed the common reasons for extreme period pain. They emphasized that ovulation is often the primary cause. They noted that pain typically occurs just before the onset of a period. This pain gradually improves once menstruation begins. However, they highlighted that conditions like endometriosis can lead to more severe and persistent pain. This pain often worsens during periods rather than alleviating.
They explained that girls should be vigilant about any extreme pain. If the pain lasts beyond the usual duration of menstruation, they should seek help. They suggested that regular check-ups are essential for understanding whether underlying issues exist. Many girls experience significant pain in the first couple of days of their periods. They often manage this pain with painkillers.
Despite increasing awareness, the doctors lamented that many girls still do not seek medical advice. They attributed this to a prevailing mindset that encourages women to endure pain silently. Additionally, challenges within the healthcare system prevent thorough discussions during medical appointments. They expressed the need for more counselors in clinics and schools. These counselors could facilitate better communication about these issues.
Furthermore, they highlighted that the conversation around women’s health often oversimplifies mood swings and behavioral changes. People often attribute these changes solely to hormonal fluctuations, undermining the genuine experiences of women. They pointed out that similar hormonal changes occur in men, known as andropause. However, this topic remains largely unacknowledged. They urged for greater recognition of women’s contributions, particularly in unpaid labor at home.
There are plenty more topics that we touched upon. To know more, check out Episode 2 of FUCHSIA For You below!
