Can family history influence your menstrual health?

YOUR family history can play a significant role in your menstrual health and to the likelihood of developing hormonal disorders.

- DARSHITA JAIN

If conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis are prevalent in your family, you may be more susceptible experiencing similar issues. Menstrual problems, especially irregular periods, often run in families, increasing the likelihood of these conditions if they are common among your relatives.

"A family history of menstrual disorders or painful menstruation can be hereditary," says Dr M Neharika Reddy, consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist, laparoscopy & hysteroscopy surgeon at Renova Hospitals. She explains that if a mother or sister has been diagnosed with PCOS or endometriosis, a person is more likely to develop these conditions and experience irregular periods. Additionally, a family history of dysmenorrhoea is linked to a higher likelihood of developing this condition.