Every woman’s body functions differently. In some women, periods come every month. However, in others, periods are hit or miss and are unpredictable.
On average, a woman gets periods every 24 to 48 days. Periods can last for two to eight days.
Having regular, pain-free periods is an indicator that your hormones are in balance. However, if you are not pregnant and your period gets delayed by more than a week after your due date then, you could be a patient of oligomenorrhea
A report by Indian express showed that about 33% of women have irregular periods.
But what is the reason behind irregular periods? Well, there can be a variety of reasons behind your irregular periods. Changing levels of estrogen and progesterone in your body can cause irregular periods.
Read on to know about other possible causes of Irregular Periods::
Natural hormonal changes:
During puberty, your body may undergo certain changes. The hormones that regulate periods may take several years to fall into pattern. During this time, you may face the issue of regular periods.
Breastfeeding in excess can also suppress ovulation, causing periods to stop. Periods can also become irregular during perimenopause as the hormone levels fall. These hormonal changes can be the vital causes of irregular periods.
Birth control pills:
Taking birth control pills can affect the menstrual cycle. These pills are usually taken to stop ovulation. Though, these pills can also affect your hormone levels. Some people may have no periods at all, while others can have withdrawal bleeds that seem similar to a period.
Similarly, when you stop taking your birth control pills, your hormonal level can get disturbed. It takes some time for your body’s hormone cycle to begin working as usual again. Moreover, when you stop taking birth control pills, your menstrual cycle takes some time to come back to its regular pattern.
During this period, you may have irregular periods. In addition, people who had irregular periods before they began taking these hormonal birth control pills may again face irregular cycles after they stop using them.
Irregular periods due to underlying health conditions:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome [ PCOS] is defined as a condition where small, fluid-filled sacs known as cysts develop in your ovaries.
Many people with PCOS experience irregular periods due to hormonal imbalances, and these irregular periods can cause infertility. But why do women with PCOS have periods?
PCOS impact females to have higher levels of androgens like testosterone. Moreover, the hormonal imbalance can lead to immature follicles. This can interfere with your menstrual cycle and can cause irregular periods.
Endometriosis:
The condition of endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. In endometriosis, the cells that grow inside the uterus grow outside of it.
It can cause heavy or irregular periods and lead to hormonal imbalances. Moreover, endometriosis can also cause heavy bleeding, prolonged periods, and bleeding between periods.
The symptoms may include:
- gastrointestinal pain
- painful bowel movements
- pain during and after intercourse
- Infertility
Thyroid disorders:
Thyroid disorders can be one of the leading causes of irregular periods. In hyperthyroidism, your body produces too much hormone. However, in hypothyroidism, your body doesn’t produce sufficient hormones.
You may notice significant changes in your estrogen level. It can lead to irregular and missed periods.
Food allergies and sensitivities:
Undiagnosed gluten sensitivity or food allergy can impact your hormone levels. These conditions can result in nutrient deficiencies and can negatively affect your gut health. Moreover, it can add chronic stress to your adrenal glands. As a result, it can affect the production of sex hormones and cause irregular period.
Everyday stress:
Excess stress can interfere with your menstrual cycle by temporarily interfering with the part of your brain that controls the hormones regulating your menstrual cycle. When you’re under a lot of stress, your body makes an effort to conserve energy as a sort of fight or flight response. As a result, it can prevent ovulation.
Your estrogen level falls below normal, and your body may not be able to build up the uterine lining, as a result, you don’t get periods.
Treatment options for irregular periods:
Medications :
Depending on the underlying cause, your gynecologist may suggest medications for periods. These medications are good for regulating your hormones and ensuring ovulation and regular periods.
Hormone therapy :
Irregular menstrual cycles can be due to the imbalances of hormones. Your doctor may prescribe drugs to regulate your estrogen and progesterone levels to help control irregular periods.
Counseling for mental healthy :
If your irregular period are occurring due to stress, anxiety or depression, a doctor may recommend psychological support. Regular therapy, counseling, and support groups can help you deal with mental issues. This can further improve the pattern of your menstrual cycle.
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Frequently Asked Question:
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