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Irregular periods and occasional variations in cycle length are normal. A person who regularly has very short or very long cycles may be experiencing a menstrual cycle problem. Unpredictable periods can be caused by stress, hormonal changes, and starting or stopping birth control for a time. An irregular Menstrual Cycle often comes along with the following signs and symptoms:
- Bleeding or spotting between periods.
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse.
- Heavy bleeding during your period.
- Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than normal.
- Bleeding after you’ve reached menopause
What are the Causes of Irregular Menstrual Cycle?
Many variables can affect the length and timing of your menstrual cycle. Some are manageable while others may link to other medical conditions. Causes may include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome. It is a metabolic and hormonal disorder due to the overproduction of male hormones and insulin resistance.
- Thyroid or pituitary disorders Hypothyroidism. When your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it can all affect menstrual regularity.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease. It is an inflammation of the female reproductive system due to sexually transmitted infections.
- Perimenopause. Entering the transition period may affect your period. Your menstrual cycles will become erratic as part of the process. If you skip more than two periods, you are probably in late perimenopause.
- Stress and anxiety. These can wreak havoc with your hormone balance, causing a missed period and an irregular cycle.
- Extreme exercise. Excessive physical activities can throw off the timing of menstrual bleeding and sometimes stop it.
- Eating disorders. This may include extreme dieting, weight loss, and other unhealthy eating habits.
- Age. Perimenopause and menopause have a major effects. But being young can create irregularities as well. Birth control pills, IUDs, implants, and rings can also cause irregular bleeding.
Are Irregular Menstrual Cycles a Health Concern?
A couple of irregular periods per year are usually nothing to worry about. When that number increases, you should consult a doctor to ensure any issue with ovulation or a health condition isn’t causing your symptoms. But, if you are someone who is not on contraceptives and not of age for perimenopause or menopause and your periods are irregular, you should alert your physician.
Diagnosing Irregular Menstrual Cycle
Whenever you notice any changes in your menstrual cycle, you should keep a detailed record of when your period begins and ends, as well as the amount of blood you pass. Keep track of any other symptoms, such as bleeding between periods and menstrual cramps or pain.
Your doctor will ask you about your menstrual cycle and medical history. The doctor will perform a physical examination, including an ultrasound exam of the pelvis to detect uterine fibroids, polyps, or ovarian cysts.
Treatment for Irregular menstrual Cycle
Hormones such as estrogen or progestin might be prescribed to help control heavy bleeding. Yazz pills may also help manage your menstrual cycle. For women who are planning to get pregnant but experiencing irregular cycles, you may also use infertility therapy medications such as:
