New Delhi: Irregular menstruation means menses that are shorter or longer than the typical 28 days or vary in intensity, frequency, or duration. Constant changes in menstrual cycles can be a sign of an underlying health issue that will need immediate medical attention. The causes can be attributed to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) which is a hormonal disorder where the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones (androgens), causing irregular periods, weight gain, and other symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth. Moreover, thyroid problems and stress can cause missed or irregular periods. Excessive exercise, low body weight, perimenopause, medication, or even uterine and ovarian conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, or other issues with the uterus or ovaries can result in irregular bleeding or changes in the menstrual cycle.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Manju Gupta – Senior Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, decoded the many causes of irregular periods.
Symptoms of Irregular Menses
Missed periods: When menstruation skips one or more cycles, that is called irregular menses.
Heavy or prolonged bleeding: Periods that last longer than usual or involve heavier bleeding than normal.
Short menses: A menstrual cycle lasting less than 21 days also indicates an irregular cycle; women should consult the doctor.
- Long menstrual cycles: A cycle that lasts more than 35 days is also concerning and requires attention.
- Painful periods (Dysmenorrhea)
- Abdominal pain and cramps are linked to menstruation, which may become more severe with irregular cycles.
- If one witnesses these symptoms she should consult the expert on an immediate basis without any delay.
Tips to manage irregular menses
Maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating moderate exercise can help regulate hormones, particularly in PCOS or stress-related irregularity cases. Doing yoga, meditation, or counseling can help reduce stress helping to tackle irregular menses. In some cases, birth control pills, patches, or hormone therapy may help regulate menstrual cycles by balancing hormone levels. When it comes to women with thyroid disorders, medications can help to normalise thyroid function and restore regular menstrual cycles. In cases of problems like fibroids or endometriosis, surgery may be recommended to remove growths or repair the uterus. For women who are trying to conceive, irregular periods can be a barrier to understanding ovulation patterns. Fertility treatments such as ovulation induction may be suggested to help regulate cycles and improve the chances of pregnancy.
The last word
Irregular menses are a common issue in a large number of women. Though, irregular periods can be managed with the help of lifestyle changes or medical treatments, identifying the root cause can help to address this issue and improve the quality of life. Whether the cause is hormonal, lifestyle-related, or associated with any underlying condition, seeking timely medical intervention can help to regulate menses, improving overall.
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