It is generally possible to undergo surgery while menstruating, as it typically does not pose a contraindication for most procedures. Medical professionals are accustomed to managing it, and its presence usually does not complicate the surgical procedure or negatively affect the outcome.
Physiological Considerations During Menstruation
The menstrual cycle involves natural hormonal fluctuations that influence various bodily systems. During menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels are typically lower. While some studies suggest these hormonal changes might affect pain perception, with some indicating increased pain sensitivity in the luteal phase and others in the follicular phase, the body’s physiological state remains within a safe range for most surgical interventions. Research regarding pain perception during different menstrual phases has shown mixed results, with some studies finding no significant difference in postoperative pain scores or analgesic consumption.
Concerns about increased bleeding during surgery due to menstruation are largely unfounded for most procedures. Blood clotting mechanisms during a period are usually normal, and the amount of blood loss from menstruation is generally not significant enough to impact surgical bleeding. Studies on surgeries not directly related to hormonally sensitive organs, such such as abdominoplasty or vitreoretinal surgery, have found no significant effect of the menstrual cycle on perioperative blood loss. However, some studies on hormonally sensitive tissues, like the breast or uterus, have shown conflicting results regarding perioperative blood loss depending on the menstrual phase.
General anesthesia is safe during menstruation. Some individuals may experience a temporary disruption to their menstrual cycle after surgery due to physical and emotional stress. This can manifest as irregular periods, which typically resolves within a short period. Medical professionals are aware of these physiological aspects and account for them in surgical planning.
Pre-Surgery Communication with Your Medical Team
Openly communicating your menstrual status to your medical team before surgery is important. This disclosure allows the surgical team to be fully aware and prepared, even though your period typically does not necessitate rescheduling the procedure.
Providing details such as your expected start date, the heaviness of your flow, and any associated symptoms, like cramping, allows the team to anticipate needs and make appropriate accommodations. This information is particularly relevant if there is a possibility of pregnancy, as a pregnancy test is often administered before surgery. Informing the team can prevent misinterpretation of any post-surgical bleeding as a rare complication.
For certain gynecological procedures or surgeries involving hormonally sensitive tissues, your menstrual phase might be a factor the surgeon considers, though it rarely leads to cancellation. Discuss any concerns about your menstrual cycle and its potential impact on your surgery with your surgeon or nursing staff.
Comfort and Practicalities During Your Hospital Stay
Managing menstruation during a hospital stay requires practical considerations to maintain comfort. It is advisable to wear a pad instead of a tampon on the day of surgery, as tampons could be left in too long, increasing the risk of infection. Hospitals typically provide pads, but you can bring your preferred brand.
Hospital staff are accustomed to assisting patients with personal hygiene needs, including managing menstruation. Nurses can provide extra bedding or assist with changing pads if necessary. If your period starts unexpectedly while in the hospital, the staff can provide you with the necessary sanitary products.
Menstrual pain, such as cramps or lower back pain, can be managed alongside post-surgical discomfort. Inform your healthcare team about any menstrual pain you are experiencing so they can provide appropriate pain relief that is safe to take with your post-operative medication. After surgery, it is common to experience some vaginal bleeding, and using pads allows for easier monitoring of the flow.