Starting from missed or late periods to the shifting bleeding patterns, reasons for the irregular monthly menstruation could be hormonal imbalance, stress, eating disorder, over usage of emergency contraceptive pills, among others.[break]
According to Dr Ganesh Dangal, Consultant Gynecologist at Kathmandu Model Hospital, it’s fairly common for women to go through irregular monthly cycles. “Irregular periods are common. In a day, we have around 10 to 15 per cent of women who come to us with this problem,” he says.[break]
He further explains that the hormonal systems of teen girls are not mature, and hence, they could get their periods once every two or maybe even three months, resulting in heavy bleeding. For adult women over 20, the causes may vary from the usage and effects of contraceptive pills, hormonal imbalance, thyroid problems, obesity, anorexia nervosa, drinking too much alcohol, smoking, stress and any chronic disease. Stopping the regular dose of contraceptive pills also causes irregular menstruation and emergency contraceptive pills may also result in its temporary delay.
The average cycle between the first day of the period till the next is 28 days, yet it’s normal for the cycle to be a few days shorter or longer.
Dr Dangal supports this, saying that while by definition the normal cycle could be between 21 to 35 days, it also depends on the usual cycle of a woman.
“If your cycle is 40 days normally, then it’s no problem. However, a sudden break in the normal cycle and less than 21 days or more than 35 days could signify changes in the period cycle,” he says. So it’s important to understand whether you are actually going through any irregularities.
Your irregular period could be due to a stressed lifestyle, over-exercise or changes in the diet leading to subsequent weight gain or loss. It’s a smart move to keep track of your period as it will help you figure out whether you are experiencing any irregularities in your monthly cycle. This could also lead to a better awareness of your health.
Menstrual disorders can also lead to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which can either stop or lessen the monthly cycles. PCOS is the development of cysts around the edge of the ovaries and will lead to hair loss, excessive body hair, acne, weight gain and infertility apart from irregular periods.
Thyroid disease is another cause of irregular menstrual cycle. Anyone experiencing more frequent cycles and heavier and painful period could be suffering from hypothyroidism while the lighter and infrequent period cycles could point towards hyperthyroidism. Thyroid problems could also lead to infertility in later life. A doctor will check for hormonal imbalance and also do an ultrasound to verify the problem.
It’s important to consult your doctor and diagnose the problem rather than leaving it hanging in the air. An expert’s diagnosis will not only confirm any suspicion but will also offer treatment and cure in time.
However, irregular periods are not always a cause for concern. Adjustments and changes in your lifestyle could ensure that your monthly cycle is back on track. Keeping a positive attitude, eating healthy, giving your body adequate nutrition and rest can be the start. Try not to be too stressed out, either.
Dr Dangal also says, “Provided there’s no sign of any disease and as long as the hormone level is balanced, there’s no need to worry.”
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